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HomeFamily CodeDiv. 9Pt. 1Ch. 3Art. 3§ 3591 Spousal Support Modification Rules

§ 3591 Spousal Support Modification Rules

Family Code·California
AI Summary·Official Text·Key Terms·Related Statutes·References
AI SummaryVerified

§ 3591 Spousal Support Modification Rules

This law says that agreements about paying money to support a spouse after divorce can usually be changed later by a judge, but there are some exceptions.

Key Takeaways

  • •Most spousal support agreements can be changed later if things change, like losing a job.
  • •Money that is already owed before asking for a change can't be reduced.
  • •If the agreement says the support can never be changed, then it can't be changed.

Example

A couple gets divorced, and the husband agrees to pay his wife $1,000 every month for support.

Later, if the husband loses his job, he can ask a judge to lower the payments. But if he already owes $5,000 from past months, that amount can't be changed. Also, if their agreement says the payments can never be changed, then the judge can't change them.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source
View on CA.gov

§ 3591 Spousal Support Modification Rules

(a) Except as provided in subdivisions (b) and (c), the provisions of an agreement for the support of either party are subject to subsequent modification or termination by court order. (b) An agreement may not be modified or terminated as to an amount that accrued before the date of the filing of the notice of motion or order to show cause to modify or terminate. (c) An agreement for spousal support may not be modified or revoked to the extent that a written agreement, or, if there is no written agreement, an oral agreement entered into in open court between the parties, specifically provides that the spousal support is not subject to modification or termination. (Enacted by Stats. 1992, Ch. 162, Sec. 10. Operative January 1, 1994.)

Last verified: January 9, 2026

Key Terms

supportmodificationterminationspousal supportcourt order

Related Statutes

  • § 7133 Emancipation Notice Requirements
  • § 2023 Direct Payment Of Obligations
  • § 3580 Spousal Separation Agreements
  • § 3590 Spousal Support Agreement Severability
  • § 3592 Spousal Support After Bankruptcy

References

  • Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
  • California Legislature. Family Code. Section 3591.
View Official Source