For most people Spousal Support involves two issues:

A. The amount of spousal support
B. The duration of spousal support.

The duration of spousal support is closely linked to the length of the marriage.  The "rule of thumb" refers to the idea that spousal support will last for one-half the length of the marriage.  The circumstances vary from person-to-person, but the Courts usually disfavor "lifetime support".  The Court has tremendous discretionary powers regarding the grant of spousal support and its duration.  In rendering its decision, however, the Court must take into consideration the statutory prescriptions of the California Family Code.