CALIFORNIA FAMILY LAW
...Spousal Support
......Modification
.........Stepdown/"Richmond" Orders
............Reservation of Jurisdiction Required
6 Cards On This Topic:

Where it can reasonably be inferred from the evidence that the supported spouse is capable of self-support, conditional termination order is justified.

Difference between a step-down order which allows for retention of jurisdiction to award support in the future and one which doesn't.

W's poor judgment in failing to diligently pursue remunerative employment justified reduced support award for short period followed by reservation.

Order which steps down to $1/mo does not violate Morrison, as court retains jurisdiction to modify award.

Lesser burden is required to justify stepdown than termination.

Cases approving orders stepping support down to zero, provided jurisdiction retained.