“Ali-Money” aka Spousal Support
Daniel Gold • June 12, 2024
Spousal support, also known as alimony, can be a critical issue divorce proceedings Understanding factors that influence spousal support can help you navigate the process more effectively and ensure a fair outcome.
Types of Spousal Support
In California, there are two primary types of spousal support: temporary and permanent.
Temporary Spousal Support
: This type of support
'is
utilized to maintain the living conditions and standards of the parties in as close to the status quo position as possible pending trial and the division of their assets and obligations
”
Permanent Spousal Support
: Also known as long-term or post-divorce support, this is awarded
when
the divorce is finalized. The duration and amount depend on
a consideration of
various factors
outlined below.
Factors Influencing Spousal Support
California courts consider several factors when determining spousal support, including:
- Length of the Marriage
: Generally, the longer the marriage, the longer the duration of spousal support.
- Standard of Living
: The court aims to ensure that both parties can maintain a standard of living similar to that enjoyed during the marriage.
- Earning Capacity
: The ability of each spouse to maintain gainful employment, considering their skills, job market, and time needed for education or training.
- Contributions to the Marriage
: Non-financial contributions, such as homemaking and child-rearing, are considered when determining support.
- Age and Health
: The physical and emotional condition of each spouse can influence the amount and duration of support.
- Financial Needs and Obligations
: The court evaluates the financial needs of each party, including separate and community property that is confirmed to each party in the final divorce judgment.
- Tax Implications : The tax consequences of spousal support for both parties are taken into account.
Modification of Spousal Support
Spousal support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances. Examples include changes in income, employment status,
retirement
or health conditions. Either party can request a modification through the court.
Termination of Spousal Support
Spousal support may terminate under certain conditions, such as:
- The remarriage or cohabitation of the receiving spouse.
- A specified end date outlined in the support order.
- The death of either spouse.
Seeking Legal Advice
Navigating spousal support can be complex, and having
seasoned
legal counsel is crucial
to providing clarity and advocating when necessary
.
Conclusion
Understanding spousal support is essential for anyone going through a divorce in California. Knowing the types of support, factors that influence decisions, and conditions for modification or termination can help you achieve a fair outcome. For personalized advice and assistance, contact me for expert guidance.
To learn more about my services, visit my services page.
Call: 949-756-0684
Email: dgold@tldlaw.com
Disclaimer
This information outlines a few of the concepts that surround spousal support in the State of California. It is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as legal advice for any particular situation. Please seek advice from TLD Law or your personal attorney in your state or jurisdiction.
TLD Law Family Law Partner Daniel R. Gold was recently featured on the Divorce Mortgage Strategies Podcast , powered by the Divorce Lending Association . In the episode, titled “ The Divorce Quarterback: Leading the Team That Guides Clients Through Divorce ,” Dan joins host Amy Valdivia, CDLP®, to discuss the importance of coordination and strategy in complex divorce matters. The conversation explores how successful outcomes often require collaboration among family law attorneys, mortgage professionals, and financial experts—particularly in cases involving substantial assets, real property, retirement accounts, and long-term support considerations. Dan shares insight from decades of experience guiding clients through high-net-worth and gray divorces. He explains why approaching divorce as a team effort—where the attorney serves as a strategic leader coordinating financial, lending, and legal professionals—can help clients make informed, sustainable decisions during one of life’s most significant transitions. Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mx7ruqT_IiU About Daniel R. Gold Daniel R. Gold is a partner at TLD Law and a California State Bar–certified Family Law Specialist. His practice focuses on complex divorce and family law matters, including high-net-worth divorces, division of business interests and real property, retirement asset division, and long-term support issues. Known for his strategic and detail-oriented approach, Dan works closely with clients to provide clarity and steady guidance through financially and emotionally complex situations. Learn more about Daniel R. Gold: https://tldlaw.com/our-people/daniel-gold/ About the Divorce Mortgage Strategies Podcast and the Divorce Lending Association The Divorce Mortgage Strategies Podcast is produced by the Divorce Lending Association and is designed for family law professionals, financial specialists, and individuals navigating divorce. The podcast focuses on promoting divorce literacy, financial clarity, and cross-professional collaboration to support better outcomes in divorce cases. Learn more about the podcast: https://www.divorcelendingassociation.com/reports/divorce-literacy-podcast.cfm Visit the Divorce Lending Association: https://www.divorcelendingassociation.com/
Daniel R. Gold, Certified Family Law Specialist, is proud to announce the release of his debut book, The Divorce Quarterback: A Lawyer’s Roadmap Through the California Family Law Jungle .
Accurate and complete disclosure helps protect your rights and facilitates equitable resolutions for property division, spousal support, and child support.
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