Spousal support factors: domestic violence.

Existing law authorizes a court to order spousal support in an amount, and for a period of time, that the court determines is just and reasonable based on the standard of living established during the marriage. In making spousal support awards, the court is required to consider, among other factors, documented evidence of any history of domestic violence between the parties or against the child of either party. This bill would specify that all documented evidence of any history of domestic violence be considered by the court in ordering spousal support, including, but not limited to, issuance of a protective order or a finding by a court during the pendency of a divorce, separation, or child custody proceeding, or other specified proceeding, that the spouse has committed domestic violence.