Spousal support (sometimes called alimony) is a payment from one spouse to the other following separation or divorce. In Canada, spousal support is governed by the Divorce Act and provincial family law legislation, with the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines providing a framework for calculating the amount and duration of support.
Entitlement to spousal support is not automatic — it depends on factors such as the length of the marriage, the roles each spouse played during the relationship, the recipient's needs, and the payor's ability to pay. The three recognized bases for entitlement are compensatory (compensating for career sacrifices made during the marriage), non-compensatory (addressing need and standard of living), and contractual (arising from a prior agreement).
At Batish Law, we provide clear, practical advice on spousal support — whether you are the spouse seeking support or the spouse who may be required to pay. We ensure that support arrangements are fair, sustainable, and reflective of the true financial picture. Our lawyers negotiate effectively and litigate forcefully when necessary to protect your interests.
How We Help
What to Expect
A thorough analysis of both spouses' income, assets, and financial needs
Application of the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines to determine a fair range
Negotiation of support terms including amount, duration, and review provisions
Preparation of court applications if agreement cannot be reached
Assistance with variation or termination of support as circumstances evolve
