California Spousal Support

California Spousal Support 

When a couple legally separates or divorces, the court may order one spouse or a domestic partner to pay the other a certain amount of support money each month. This is called “spousal support” for married couples and “partner support” in domestic partnership. It is also known as “alimony.”

There are two types of spousal support in California, one is temporary spousal support and another is permanent spousal support. The overall purpose of temporary spousal support is to maintain the standard of living of the parties until their property has been divided. Considering the supported party’s needs and supporting party’s ability to pay. Courts may properly look to the parties’ accustomed martial lifestyle in making a temporary support orders.

Permanent or long-term spousal support refers to spousal support provided for in a family law judgment. It is not “permanent” in the sense that it always results in a lifelong obligation or benefit. The only permanency to these orders is that they survive for some period of time after the judgment is entered. In ordering permanent spousal support, the court record must reflect that the court considered all the factors listed in Family Code §4320, also known as 4320 factors.

Spousal support in California is a complicated matter. It is best to consult a family law attorney to determine your rights and obligations. If you have any questions please call us at 818-588-6285.