Los Angeles Spousal Support Lawyer

Understanding Spousal Support in California

Spousal support is designed to address economic disparities between spouses after a divorce or separation. In California, courts may order temporary or long-term support depending on each spouse’s financial circumstances, earning capacity, and the length of the marriage.

Factors considered under California Family Code Section 4320 include (there are multiple factors, these are the most commonly addressed):

• Each spouse’s income and earning potential
• The standard of living established during the marriage
• The length of the marriage
• Contributions made to the household or one spouse’s career
• Age, health, and special circumstances of each spouse

Spousal support can be one of the most contested aspects of divorce, as it directly impacts both parties’ financial futures. Our role is to help clients present their case clearly and fairly while navigating the local practices of the Los Angeles Superior Court – Family Law Division.

Temporary vs. Long-Term Support

• Temporary (pendente lite) support is available while the divorce is pending to help maintain financial stability during the process.
• Long-term or post-judgment support (sometimes is determined at the conclusion of the divorce and is influenced by statutory factors, including the duration of the marriage and each party’s ability to be self-supporting.

Because Los Angeles courts use guideline formulas for temporary support but have broad discretion for long-term awards, it’s important to approach both phases with a well-prepared legal strategy.

Modifying or Terminating Spousal Support

Circumstances can change after a divorce is finalized. A significant increase or decrease in income, retirement, cohabitation, or changes in health may justify a modification of spousal support. Enforcement may also become necessary if a paying spouse falls behind. Unlike child support, which is handled by the Los Angeles County Department of Child Support Services (CSSD) or the California Department of Child Support Services (DCSS), spousal support enforcement is typically managed through the Family Law Division of the Los Angeles Superior Court, often via wage garnishments or court orders.

Our attorneys guide clients through these processes, helping navigate both the financial and procedural aspects.

Tax Considerations for Spousal Support

Spousal support in California can have tax implications for both the paying and receiving spouse. Under California law, support payments are generally deductible for the payer and taxable to the recipient, though the specifics can vary depending on the terms of the agreement. At the federal level, rules changed for divorce agreements executed after December 31, 2018: federal law no longer allows deductions for the payer; nor does the Federal government tax the recipient on spousal support. Temporary support, which helps maintain financial stability during divorce proceedings, and long-term support, which assists a spouse in transitioning toward financial independence, may both be affected. Because tax rules and individual circumstances can differ, it’s important to understand how these payments may impact your situation.

Our attorneys can help explain how spousal support may affect your taxes and guide you through the process, providing a clear understanding of your options.

Spousal Support & Related Family Law Issues

Spousal support rarely stands alone. It often intersects with child support, property division, and custody arrangements, all of which can affect a family’s financial picture. At Feinberg & Waller, APC, we handle these issues in coordination to develop a comprehensive approach, helping clients move forward with clarity and stability.

Begin Your Next Chapter with Confidence

Spousal support can shape your financial future after divorce. At Feinberg & Waller, APC, we provide guidance rooted in decades of family law experience, helping clients pursue fair outcomes while easing the stress of the legal process.

Call (800) 655-4766 today to schedule a consultation and discuss your spousal support case with a Los Angeles divorce lawyer you can trust.