Spousal support is a payment that one spouse or partner can pay to each other after they separate or divorce.

In the province of Ontario, spousal support is regulated by the Family Law Act, Divorce Act and the Child Support Guidelines.

Generally, individuals who have been legally married for at least three years are eligible for spousal support.

Common law couples may be eligible for spousal support if they have lived together in a relationship of some permanence. Individuals applying must provide proof that their relationship meets the criteria set out by Ontario law.

The length of time a recipient will receive spousal support depends on several factors including:

• The duration of the marriage/relationship;
• The financial resources of both parties; and
• Any economic hardship suffered by either party due to separation or divorce.

When calculating amount and duration of spousal support payments, courts consider:

• Current and future income potential of both parties;
• Contributions made to the shared family assets while they were together;
• Any child custody arrangements; and
• Whether there are any special circumstances that need to be taken into consideration (e.g., age, disability).

In certain cases, an individual will not qualify for spousal support payments:

If one party has committed adultery or violent acts against the other; – If one party refuses to cooperate in court proceedings related to determining eligibility for spousal support; – If both parties are found guilty of financial wrongdoing during their relationship (e.g., hiding income or assets);

Spouses and partners have a legal obligation to financially support each other, known as one’s duty to support. They must provide financial resources so that the other can maintain the standard of living they had during the marriage/relationship.

Spousal incomescan be made in two forms: lump sum or periodic payments (monthly). The type of payment will depend on the special circumstances of each case.

Once a court has issued an order for spousal support, either party may apply for a change in payment amounts or duration, if there is a significant change in financial circumstances. It is important for individuals to understand their rights when it comes to applying for changes in spousal support orders.

Determining spousal support is not a straightforward process, and many factors are considered. These include the earning capacity of both parties, length of marriage, age and health of each party, current and potential income, standard of living prior to divorce, and other economic factors. The court takes into account all relevant information when making a decision regarding spousal support.

It is important to note that there are certain time limits for making a request to modify or terminate spousal support. Depending on the laws of the state and specific circumstances, requests must be made within certain periods of time from the original order. Additionally, if both parties agree to change an existing order they should have it written down in an official document and signed by both parties.

Spousal support orders are generally made for a set period of time, but in some cases there may be an extension clause or payment will continue until remarriage or death. Modification or termination of the spousal support order is possible if there is evidence of a change in financial situation, reduction in income, or an agreement between both parties.

When it comes to the division of assets and property acquired during marriage, marital property is split equitably between couples. The court looks at factors such as length of the marriage, economic contributions by each party, future earning capacity of both parties, and any increases or decreases in individual net worth after separation.

In cases of divorce involving children, arrangements must be made for custody and visitation. This can be determined through various approaches such as mediation or a trial before a judge. Every state has different guidelines regarding child custody with each approach looking at the best interests of the child.

Alimony is another factor to consider when determining spousal support. It is a form of payment from one ex-spouse to the other and is usually based on need as well as ability to pay. The court will take into consideration various factors such as duration of marriage, employment history, standard of living prior to divorce, and personal assets.