California temporary spousal support calculator
Estimate temporary (pre-judgment) spousal support using the Santa Clara guideline used by most California courts pending trial.
Temporary vs. long-term support
California law splits spousal support into two phases. Temporary support bridges the gap between filing and final judgment and is calculated using a guideline formula (most commonly Santa Clara). Long-term support is set at trial and is governed by the 14 statutory factors in Family Code §4320 — earning capacity, marital standard of living, contributions to the other spouse's career, age and health, and others.
Marital duration matters
Under §4336, a marriage of 10 years or more is presumed "long duration," meaning the court retains jurisdiction over support indefinitely. Shorter marriages typically see support for about half the length of the marriage.
Family law help when you need it most.
Life rarely prepares us for the moments when family changes shape. Whether you’re facing a divorce you didn’t see coming, worrying about your children’s future, or simply trying to figure out what comes next, please know you’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate this on your own. At San Diego Family Law Associates, we’ve walked alongside countless San Diegans through these same uncertain chapters, and we’d be honored to walk with you, too.
What sets us apart isn’t just our experience in California family law (though we have plenty of that). It’s the way we show up for the people who trust us. We listen first. We answer your questions in plain language. We remember that behind every case file is a real person—often a parent, a spouse, someone who’s tired and just wants to feel heard. From the first phone call to the final signature, you’ll work with attorneys who genuinely care about your story and your family’s future.
Call today for a free, confidential consultation. Whether you’re ready to take action or just need someone to help you understand your options, we’re here to listen. There’s no pressure and no obligation—just a real conversation with an experienced attorney who can help you see the path forward. Serving families throughout San Diego County, including downtown, North County, the South Bay, and everywhere in between.