Navigating spousal support during a divorce can be complex and emotionally challenging. Our experienced Regina divorce lawyers are here to provide expert guidance and compassionate support to ensure your rights are protected and your financial future is secure.
What is Spousal Support?
Spousal support, also known as alimony or maintenance, is a financial payment made by one spouse to the other following a separation or divorce. It is designed to help maintain a similar standard of living for both parties, particularly when one spouse has been financially dependent on the other during the marriage.
Types of Spousal Support in Saskatchewan
- Compensatory Support: Awarded to compensate a spouse for economic disadvantages incurred during the marriage, such as career sacrifices to support the family.
- Non-Compensatory Support: Based on financial need, this support helps a spouse maintain a reasonable standard of living post-divorce.
- Interim Support: Temporary support provided during the divorce process to address immediate financial needs.
- Lump-Sum or Periodic Payments: Support can be paid as a one-time lump sum or in regular installments, depending on the agreement or court order.
How is Spousal Support Determined?
In Regina and throughout Saskatchewan, spousal support is determined based on several factors outlined in the Divorce Act and provincial family law. These include:
- Length of the marriage or common-law relationship
- Income and earning capacity of both spouses
- Roles and responsibilities during the marriage (e.g., homemaker, primary earner)
- Age and health of both spouses
- Financial needs and obligations, including child support responsibilities
- Standard of living during the marriage
Our lawyers use the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAG) to provide a framework for calculating fair and reasonable support amounts, although these guidelines are not legally binding.
Why Choose Our Regina Divorce Lawyers?
At our Regina law firm, we specialize in family law and have extensive experience handling spousal support cases. Here’s why clients trust us:
- Personalized Advice: We tailor our approach to your unique situation, ensuring the best possible outcome.
- Negotiation Expertise: We strive to reach fair agreements through mediation and negotiation, minimizing conflict and legal costs.
- Court Representation: If litigation is necessary, our skilled lawyers will advocate strongly on your behalf in court.
- Compassionate Support: We understand the emotional toll of divorce and provide empathetic guidance every step of the way.
Modifying or Terminating Spousal Support
Life circumstances change, and spousal support agreements may need to be adjusted. Our lawyers can assist with:
- Modifying support amounts due to changes in income, remarriage, or other significant life events
- Terminating support when it is no longer needed or appropriate
- Enforcing support orders if payments are not being made
Contact Us Today
Whether you’re seeking spousal support, defending against a claim, or need help modifying an existing order, our Regina divorce lawyers are here to help. Contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your case and explore your options.
