When couples go through a divorce or legal separation, one of the most common questions is whether one spouse will have to pay spousal support. While many people casually call this “alimony,” in California, the official legal term is spousal support. Spousal support is money that one spouse pays to the other during or after a divorce to help maintain the “marital standard of living,” especially when there’s a big difference in incomes or earning ability.
Spousal support is considered temporary or permanent (or long-term). Temporary support is ordered while the divorce is still in progress, meant to help the lower-earning spouse cover expenses until a final amount and duration of support is agreed to by the spouses or ordered by the court. Permanent support is part of the final divorce order and can last for a set period of time (typically if the marriage is under 10 years) or, in long-term marriages support can be ordered indefinitely until there is a change in circumstances. There’s no “one-size-fits-all” formula. Judges look at many factors, including the length of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, each spouse’s income and ability to work, age and health, and even whether one spouse helped the other with education or career advancement.
It’s important to know that spousal support isn’t automatic. Courts aim for fairness, but they also expect both spouses to work toward becoming self-supporting when possible. When circumstances change (like if one spouse loses a job, gets a raise, or retires) spousal support orders can be modified. But to do this, you usually need a formal request and court approval; informal agreements between ex-spouses aren’t enough. If there is an agreement to change the spousal support, it must be in writing and filed with the court.
If you have questions about spousal support, whether you might have to pay it, receive it, or need to modify an existing order, The Grey Legal Group, APC is here to help. Our experienced family law team can guide you through the process and protect your financial future. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward clarity and peace of mind.