Spousal Support in California

At Voloshko Law Office, PC in Walnut Creek, CA, our family law attorneys assist clients in establishing, modifying, and terminating spousal support (alimony) orders throughout the Bay Area, including Alameda, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, San Francisco, and San Mateo counties.

1. Purpose of Spousal Support

Spousal support is designed to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a standard of living similar to what they had during the marriage.

2. Types of Spousal Support

A. Temporary Spousal Support

   •    Paid during divorce proceedings to help the lower-earning spouse cover immediate expenses.

   •    Calculated using local court guidelines.

B. Permanent Spousal Support

   •    Ordered after the divorce is finalized.

   •    Based on various factors and may last for a set period or indefinitely, depending on the case.

3. Factors Considered for Spousal Support

Under Family Code Section 4320, the court considers:

   •    Length of the marriage

   •    Standard of living during the marriage

   •    Each spouse's income and earning capacity

   •    Age and health of both spouses

   •    Contributions to the other's education or career

   •    Ability of the paying spouse to meet their own needs while paying support

   •    History of domestic violence

4. Duration of Spousal Support

   •    For marriages lasting less than 10 years, support typically lasts half the length of the marriage.

   •    For marriages lasting 10 years or more, the court has discretion over the duration.

5. Modifying Spousal Support

Spousal support can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as:

   •    Job loss

   •    Retirement

   •    Increase in either party's income

6. Termination of Spousal Support

Spousal support ends when:

   •    The receiving spouse remarries or enters a domestic partnership.

   •    The court order specifies a termination date.

   •    Either spouse passes away.

Contact Voloshko Law Office, PC at (925) 705-9796 or schedule a consultation to speak with a spousal support attorney in Walnut Creek, CA.