Spousal Support and Cohabitation Investigations in California

Cohabitation Investigations – Sacramento & Northern California | Bonnington PI

In the state of California, spousal support (commonly referred to as alimony) can be awarded after divorce to help one party maintain financial stability—especially in cases with a significant income disparity. However, this financial obligation isn’t always permanent. If your former spouse begins living with a new partner, it could trigger a legal basis for reducing or eliminating support.


At Bonnington PI, we conduct professional, discreet cohabitation investigations to uncover the truth—and protect your rights. Our team delivers court-ready evidence to support your legal claim and help you pursue a fair outcome.


Located in Sacramento, CA
Call for a Free Consultation: (916) 936-7773
Serving the Greater Sacramento Valley, San Francisco Bay Area, Roseville, Folsom, Elk Grove, and all of Northern California

What Counts As Cohabitation in California Law?

Under California Family Code §4323, courts may presume a decreased need for spousal support when the receiving party is in a relationship that resembles a marriage—specifically if they are cohabiting full-time with a romantic partner.


While each case is unique, signs of cohabitation may include:

  • Sharing a primary residence
  • Sleeping at the same home most nights of the week
  • Merged finances or shared expenses
  • Daily domestic routines such as cooking, chores, or errands
  • Public behavior consistent with a couple (family events, vacations, etc.)

Our Investigative Approach—What Bonnington PI Delivers

Surveillance of Daily Activities

We conduct discreet fieldwork to document patterns in your ex-spouse’s routine:

  • Overnight stays
  • Shared vehicle usage
  • Consistent co-presence in the home

Photographic and Video Evidence

Our team captures timestamped visual proof of:

  • Live-in partners
  • Romantic or domestic interactions
  • Public outings suggestive of a shared life

Digital and Social Media Monitoring

We investigate online platforms for:

  • Relationship status updates
  • Social posts, tags, or comments showing shared experiences
  • Geolocation patterns and mutual check-ins

Public Record Research

We check for:

  • Joint leases, mortgages, or utility bills
  • Financial ties such as shared bank accounts
  • Address history linking both individuals to the same location

Witness Testimony (When Permissible)

Neighbors, landlords, or building staff may provide insights that reinforce your claim. All statements are collected lawfully and documented for potential court use.

Why Cohabitation Investigations Matter

Without proper evidence, your claim could be dismissed or delayed. Family courts require clear documentation, and your burden is to prove the cohabitation is not casual but continuous and financially beneficial to your ex.


If you succeed, the outcome may include:

  • Reduction or termination of spousal support
  • Retroactive reimbursement of overpaid alimony
  • Greater leverage in ongoing legal proceedings


Cohabitation investigations help ensure support payments are fair and justified and not manipulated through dishonesty.

Who We Serve

Bonnington PI supports:

  • Individuals paying ongoing alimony
  • Divorcees concerned about lifestyle misrepresentation
  • Attorneys handling post-judgment modifications
  • Anyone preparing to file a formal motion for support reduction


We proudly serve clients across Sacramento, Roseville, Elk Grove, Folsom, the Bay Area, and Northern California.

Why Choose Bonnington PI?

California Licensed Private Investigators

Surveillance Experts Trained in Family Law Cases

Detailed, Court-Admissible Reports with Photos, Logs & Findings

Absolute Confidentiality Throughout the Process

Trusted by Top Family Law Firms Across Northern California

Take the Next Step—Protect Your Finances With Evidence

If you suspect your ex is living with a new partner and still collecting spousal support, you have the right to take action. Bonnington PI can help you uncover the truth—and take back control of your financial future.


Call (916) 936-7773 or Contact Us for a Free, Confidential Consultation

Located in Sacramento, CA | Serving Northern California

Let us gather the proof you need to move forward with confidence.