When a marriage ends, one of the most common concerns — especially in long-term relationships — is spousal support, also known as alimony. Spousal support is designed to help the lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability during and after a divorce. Yet the process for deciding how much is owed, and for how long, can be complex.
At the Law Office of Stuart E. Bruers, based in Torrance, California, and serving clients across Los Angeles County, Orange County, the South Bay, and the San Gabriel Valley, we help individuals understand how California courts determine support and what factors influence the outcome.
Temporary vs. Permanent Support
California distinguishes between two main types of spousal support:
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Temporary (or pendente lite) support is awarded while the divorce is still pending. It ensures that both parties can meet basic expenses and maintain stability during the legal process. Courts often rely on standardized software, such as Dissomaster, to calculate temporary support based on income, deductions, and taxes.
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Long-term (or post-judgment) support is ordered once the divorce is finalized. Unlike temporary support, this amount is not formula-driven. Judges instead evaluate a range of statutory factors under Family Code § 4320, which provides much more discretion.
The Factors Courts Consider
When determining long-term support, California judges must balance multiple considerations, including:
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The length of the marriage – Generally, longer marriages (typically over 10 years) may justify longer or indefinite support periods.
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Each spouse’s earning capacity – Courts evaluate whether the supported spouse can maintain the marital standard of living and whether additional education or training would help them become self-sufficient.
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Contributions during the marriage – This includes financial and non-financial contributions, such as raising children or supporting the other spouse’s career.
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Age and health of each party.
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Any history of domestic violence.
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The ability of the paying spouse to meet their own needs while paying support.
Each of these factors carries different weight depending on the unique circumstances of the case.
Modifying or Ending Support
Spousal support orders are not always permanent. If there is a material change in circumstances — such as job loss, retirement, remarriage, or a significant income shift — either party may request a modification. Our firm regularly assists clients in filing or defending modification requests in courts throughout the South Bay, Beverly Hills, and Orange County, ensuring that any adjustments remain fair and legally sound.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Because spousal support decisions rely heavily on judicial discretion, effective advocacy and documentation can make a substantial difference. At the Law Office of Stuart E. Bruers, we have more than 30 years of experience representing clients in complex support matters. We provide clear, practical guidance on negotiating settlements, presenting financial data, and preparing persuasive arguments tailored to each courthouse’s expectations.
Take the Next Step
If you need help establishing, modifying, or enforcing spousal support, contact the Law Office of Stuart E. Bruers today. We serve clients in Torrance, Redondo Beach, Long Beach, Pasadena, and throughout Southern California. Our goal is to protect your financial future and ensure that every support order is fair, realistic, and built to last.