Navigate California Child & Spousal Support with Confidence

SB 343 modernized the cost-of-living data underpinning guideline support and clarified hardship adjustments. Both parents’ incomes combine to establish a basic obligation, then the K-factor and time-share percentages allocate financial responsibility.

Extraordinary circumstances—medical costs, special needs, education—can trigger deviations from the calculated amount. Courts must document reasons whenever orders depart from guideline results.

Temporary spousal support often follows county guidelines such as the Santa Clara 40/50 rule (40% of payor’s net income minus 50% of payee’s). Permanent support is determined under § 4320, balancing the couple’s marital standard of living, earning capacity, and documented contributions.

Courts remain cautious with long-term orders, frequently providing “Gavron warnings” that encourage recipients to pursue self-sufficiency and revisit support as circumstances evolve.