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Denise Richards just faced a shocking court ruling in her contentious divorce battle. On February 26, 2026, a judge ordered the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star to pay ex-husband Aaron Phypers $5,000 monthly in spousal support. This unexpected decision surprised many, as Richards has publicly claimed Phypers abused her.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Monthly Support: Richards must pay Phypers $5,000 per month starting March 5, 2026
- Attorney Fees: Judge Nicole Bershon ordered $25,000 in legal fees plus $5,000 for forensic accountant
- Restraining Order: Richards was granted a five-year restraining order against Phypers in November 2025
- Payment Plan: Attorney fees to be paid in three $10,000 installments (March, April, May 2026)
The Court’s Surprising Decision on Spousal Support
Judge Nicole Bershon ruled that Richards must pay “pendente lite spousal support”, meaning temporary support during divorce proceedings. The $5,000 monthly payment begins each month on the fifth, continuing “until further order of the court.” This marks a major victory for Phypers, who claimed he only had $200 to his name during the hearing.
Richards reportedly told the judge she “can’t afford” the payments, despite her successful career in film and television. The former actress, age 55, argued in court documents that paying spousal support to someone she alleges abused her was unjust. However, the judge granted the request anyway, focusing on financial need rather than the domestic violence allegations.
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Denise Richards navigates divorce settlement, ordered to pay ex Aaron Phypers monthly support
Domestic Violence Claims Amid Financial Battles
Denise Richards obtained a five-year permanent restraining order against Aaron Phypers in November 2025, citing ongoing domestic violence and threats. She claimed Phypers became “very angry and volatile” during an incident on July 4, 2025, when she asked him to leave their shared townhouses. The restraining order prohibits Phypers from owning guns, contacting Richards, or disturbing her peace.
Despite these abuse allegations, Phypers has maintained his innocence, calling the claims “completely false and deeply hurtful.” He countered with his own allegations, claiming Richards cheated on him and physically abused him. The judge’s decision to grant spousal support suggests courts view the domestic violence and financial obligations as separate legal matters requiring different remedies.
The Financial Breakdown of This Divorce Settlement
| Item | Amount |
| Monthly Spousal Support | $5,000 (ongoing) |
| Attorney Fees (total) | $25,000 |
| Forensic Accountant Fee | $5,000 |
| Total Upfront Fees | $30,000 |
“The judge clarified that the attorney fee payments will not be applied to Phypers’ criminal defense, only the divorce proceedings.”
— According to People Magazine, court documents
The Messy Timeline That Led to This Judgment
Denise Richards and Aaron Phypers married in September 2018 after dating for less than a year. By July 2025, Phypers filed for divorce, citing “irreconcilable differences.” The relationship burned out fast, with accusations of domestic violence, infidelity, and financial disputes escalating quickly. Richards obtained a temporary restraining order in July 2025, which became permanent in November 2025.
The February 2026 ruling now forces Richards to pay substantial monthly support to the man she accused of abuse. Additionally, both were reportedly evicted from their shared Los Angeles home after failing to pay $84,000 in rent. The entertainment world watched this high-profile split unfold as Richards returned to the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills in February to document her struggles on camera.
What Happens Next in This Ongoing Legal Battle?
The court ruling is labeled “temporary,” meaning the spousal support obligation could change once the divorce finalizes. Judge Bershon noted the payments continue “until further order of the court,” giving both parties room to request modifications. Richards can petition for reduced support if her financial situation changes, while Phypers could request increases if circumstances warrant.
Meanwhile, Phypers faces criminal charges from an October 2025 arrest on a felony warrant. He was released on $200,000 bail and denies all allegations. The outcome of his criminal case could influence future divorce settlements. Richards continues filming RHOBH, turning her painful divorce into reality TV content. Will her public journey through this legal nightmare finally lead to closure?
