by Rickard L.Borg, Esq.

Unlike child support, only vague guidelines are established in California for spousal support. Unfortunately, broad latitude is administered by judges with varying attitudes. Different results appear in cases with similar factual situations. Generally speaking, spousal support is based on the reasonable needs of the wife as they relate to the husband's ability to pay. The factors most relevant are as follows:

1. A comparison of the financial position of each of the parties before and after the dissolution.
2. Each spouse's ability to work, and his or her potential earnings considered in light of age, training and likelihood of employment.
3. The reasonable needs of each spouse due him or her in the style of life to which he or she is accustomed, considering his or her age and health, subject to the other spouse's ability to pay.

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