This Roadmap is a guide to aid in completing the paperwork for a divorce. Spousal support starts effective with the date of filing the motion, with limited exceptions.California law allows courts to order spousal support both during and after a divorce case. Learn about the kinds of spousal support in California, how judges decide the amount and duration of alimony, and whether you can change the award later. Spousal support orders are based in part on the duration of the marriage. Once the divorce is legally finalized, then longterm or "postdivorce judgment" alimony may replace temporary spousal support. Spousal support should maintain the spouse in the standard of living established during the marriage; but what does that mean? Boyd Law office in Sacramento has some of the most experienced alimony lawyers in the state of California. Spousal support;; Property division;; Debt allocation; and; Attorney fees. For assistance on completing this form, please watch our video.