In California, the dissolution of marriage operates under community property principles. This means that assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally divided equally between the parties. Furthermore, spousal support, also known as alimony, may be awarded based on various factors, including the length of the marriage, the earning capacity of each spouse, and the standard of living established during the marriage. While the community property division is typically a one-time event, spousal support can be ongoing, potentially continuing for a significant duration, even the recipient’s lifetime in long-term marriages.
The potential for long-term or permanent spousal support arises from the acknowledgment that one spouse may have sacrificed career opportunities to support the family or contribute to the other spouse’s advancement. Courts aim to mitigate economic disparities resulting from the marriage and its dissolution. Such support aims to ensure a reasonable standard of living for the supported spouse, considering the marital lifestyle and the ability of the supporting spouse to pay. This framework provides a mechanism to address inequities that might arise after years of marriage. Historical context reveals a shift from fault-based divorce to a no-fault system, influencing the criteria for spousal support and its duration.
