California Spousal Support Calculator
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Calculate temporary and permanent spousal support using county-specific formulas and comprehensive Family Code § 4320 factor analysis.
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California Spousal Support Results
Temporary & Permanent Support Analysis
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Why Choose Our California Spousal Support Calculator
County-Specific Formulas
Accurate calculations using Santa Clara, Los Angeles, Alameda, and Marin County formulas for temporary support.
FC § 4320 Analysis
Comprehensive 14-factor permanent support evaluation based on California Family Code § 4320.
Professional Accuracy
Court-approved formulas and methods used by California family law attorneys and mediators.
Instant Results
Real-time calculations provide immediate estimates for both temporary and permanent spousal support.
California Spousal Support Law
California distinguishes between temporary spousal support (during divorce proceedings) and permanent spousal support (post-judgment). This fundamental difference determines how support is calculated and the level of judicial discretion involved.
Temporary Support (Pendente Lite)
- County-specific guideline formulas
- Quick determination for immediate relief
- Typically 30-40% of income difference
- Relatively predictable outcomes
Permanent Support (FC § 4320)
- 14 statutory factor analysis
- Significant judicial discretion
- Marriage duration critical factor
- No formulaic calculation
County-Specific Temporary Support Formulas
California counties have developed their own guideline formulas for temporary spousal support. These formulas provide quick, predictable determinations during divorce proceedings.
Santa Clara County
Formula: 40% of higher earner's NDI minus 50% of lower earner's NDI
Maximum: Cannot exceed 40% of higher earner's NDI
Most widely adopted formula statewide
Los Angeles County
Short marriages: 20% of gross income difference
Long marriages: 30-40% based on duration
Duration-sensitive approach
Alameda County
Under 5 years: 25% of income difference
5-15 years: 30% of income difference
Over 15 years: 35% of income difference
Sliding scale by marriage length
Marin & Orange Counties
Generally follow Santa Clara formula with local modifications
Local court variations may apply
Marriage Duration Impact on Support
Short-Term Marriage
Under 10 Years
- • Support duration: Generally 50% of marriage length
- • Lower support percentages typically applied
- • Strong presumption toward self-sufficiency
- • Limited circumstances for indefinite support
Long-Term Marriage
10+ Years
- • Rebuttable presumption of indefinite support
- • Higher support percentages
- • Court retains jurisdiction indefinitely
- • Standard of living preservation emphasized
Very Long Marriage
20+ Years
- • Strong presumption of permanent support
- • Difficult to modify or terminate
- • Aging spouse considerations prominent
- • Career sacrifice impact maximized
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate are these calculator results?
For temporary support, our calculator implements the exact county formulas used by courts, providing highly accurate estimates. For permanent support, we provide factor analysis based on Family Code § 4320, but actual awards involve significant judicial discretion.
What's the difference between temporary and permanent support?
Temporary support uses mathematical formulas during divorce proceedings for quick determination. Permanent support is discretionary, based on comprehensive analysis of 14 statutory factors, and cannot be calculated by formula alone.
Why do different counties have different formulas?
California allows counties to develop their own temporary support guidelines. While most follow similar principles, counties like Santa Clara, Alameda, and Los Angeles have refined their approaches based on local practice and case outcomes.
What is the 10-year marriage rule?
Marriages of 10 years or longer are considered "long-term" under Family Code § 4336. This creates a rebuttable presumption that the court should retain jurisdiction to award support for an indefinite period, potentially until remarriage or death.
Can spousal support be modified after judgment?
Yes, spousal support can be modified based on significant changes in circumstances, such as job loss, income changes, remarriage, or cohabitation. The requesting party must demonstrate a material change since the last order.
Is this calculator suitable for court proceedings?
This calculator provides accurate estimates for planning and negotiation. For court filings, attorneys typically use specialized software like DissoMaster or X-Spouse that can generate court-ready reports with detailed calculations.
Legal Resources & References
Official Legal Resources
14 factors for permanent spousal support
Long-term marriage jurisdiction retention
Official forms and guidance
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Ready to Calculate Your California Spousal Support?
Get professional estimates using county-specific formulas for temporary support and comprehensive Family Code § 4320 analysis for permanent support.
Calculate Support Now - It's FreeImportant Legal Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates based on California Family Code and county formulas. Actual spousal support orders involve significant judicial discretion, especially for permanent support. Temporary support calculations are more predictable but may vary based on specific circumstances. Consult with a qualified California family law attorney for advice specific to your situation.