Q: I’ve been married 27 years how many years of Alimony can I receive?

A: Every case is different. Generally speaking, a marriage of 27 years is considered "long term" and therefore, potentially, alimony, if ordered, will not have an end date. For more information regarding what goes into the court's decisions regarding alimony (whether to award, in what amount and for how long) see Family Code §4320

A: In California, for marriages lasting 10 years or longer, which the state considers a "long-term marriage," the court has the discretion to order alimony (spousal support) for as long as the court deems necessary. This could potentially be a lifetime award, depending on the circumstances.

The length and amount of alimony are determined on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such as:

1. The earning capacity of each spouse

2. The length of the marriage

3. The age and health of both parties

4. The standard of living established during the marriage

5. The supported spouse's contribution to the other's education, training, or career

6. The supporting spouse's ability to pay

7. The balance of hardships to each party

Given the length of your marriage (27 years), the disparity in your incomes, and your role as a stay-at-home parent and primary caregiver, it is likely that the court would award you a substantial amount of alimony for an extended period. However, the specific duration and amount would be determined by the court based on the unique circumstances of your case.

It is advisable to consult with a qualified California family law attorney who can evaluate your situation and provide more specific guidance tailored to your case.