Denise Richards has been ordered by a Los Angeles judge to pay her estranged husband, Aaron Phypers, $5,000 per month in temporary spousal support as their divorce proceedings continue. The ruling places the financial obligation on the actress while the court works toward a final settlement in what has become a closely watched split.
The order, issued on Wednesday, directs that payments begin March 5 and be made on the fifth day of each month thereafter until further notice from the court. The decision underscores the interim financial arrangements often put in place during high-profile divorce cases involving substantial income disparities.
Court Orders Monthly Support and Legal Fee Contributions
According to court filings, the judge determined that temporary financial support was appropriate while the divorce is pending. The $5,000 monthly payments are designed to assist Phypers with living expenses during the legal process, which could extend for several months.
In addition to the monthly spousal support, Denise Richards was also ordered to contribute toward Phypers’ legal costs. The court directed her to pay $25,000 toward his attorney’s fees, as well as $5,000 for a forensic accountant. These payments are reportedly structured in installments over the coming months.
Temporary spousal support does not determine the final outcome of financial settlements but is intended to maintain stability for both parties while proceedings unfold. A final ruling on long-term support or asset division will be determined at a later stage.
Background of the Divorce Proceedings
Denise Richards and Phypers were married for approximately six years before the divorce filing in 2025. During their marriage, Denise Richards continued her career in television and business ventures, while Phypers operated a wellness-related business. Financial disclosures submitted in court reportedly revealed differing income levels between the two.
In earlier filings, Phypers outlined his monthly expenses and stated that he lacked consistent income sufficient to meet those obligations. Denise Richards’ legal team, meanwhile, has focused on clarifying her income streams and disputing certain financial characterizations presented in court documents.
The case has also included other legal developments in recent months, adding complexity to the proceedings. However, the current ruling strictly addresses temporary financial support and associated legal costs.
What Comes Next for Denise Richards
Family law experts note that temporary spousal support orders are common in divorce cases where one spouse earns significantly more than the other. The purpose is to preserve financial balance until a final settlement is negotiated or adjudicated.
As the divorce advances, both parties are expected to continue financial disclosures and negotiations related to asset division and any potential long-term support arrangements. Until then, the court’s order remains in effect, with payments beginning in early March.
The case continues to draw public attention, reflecting ongoing interest in high-profile marital disputes and the legal standards governing spousal support in California.
