Spousal Support and Property Division: Practical Roadmap
Two topics that shape most divorce outcomes — and how to approach each with clarity.
Temporary vs. long-term spousal support
Temporary support aims to stabilize finances during a case; long-term support considers the statutory factors (marriage length, earning capacity, standard of living, health, contributions to education/career, and more).
Community vs. separate property
California presumes assets acquired during marriage are community property. Separate property includes assets owned before marriage or acquired by gift/inheritance. Tracing and reimbursements may alter the division.
Common issues and tools
- Business valuation and marketability discounts
- Real estate equity and buy-out structures
- Retirement division via QDROs
- Tax effects that change the net outcome
Settlement strategies
Consider trading across issues (e.g., a support structure that balances property division). Clear, realistic proposals framed around total household economics often resolve impasse.
Related Reading
Questions About Support or Property Division?
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