§ 3580 Spousal Separation Agreements

Family Code·California

AI SummaryVerified

This law says married couples can agree in writing to separate and decide how to support each other and their kids during or after the separation.

Key Takeaways

•Couples can make a written agreement to separate without getting a divorce right away.
•The agreement can include money for support of each other or their kids.
•Both people must agree to the terms—no forcing or trickery allowed.

Example

A husband and wife decide to live apart but aren't ready to divorce yet.

They can write an agreement saying the husband will pay the wife $500 a month to help with the kids and rent while they're separated.

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

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 3580 Spousal Separation Agreements

Subject to this chapter and to Section 3651, spouses may agree, in writing, to an immediate separation, and may provide in the agreement for the support of either of them and of their children during the separation or upon the dissolution of their marriage. The mutual consent of the parties is sufficient consideration for the agreement. (Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 82, Sec. 33. (SB 1306) Effective January 1, 2015.)

Last verified: January 9, 2026

Key Terms

immediate separation mutual consent support dissolution of their marriage

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Family Code. Section 3580.

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

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Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References