Spousal support or partner support is crucial in family law cases, as it provides financial assistance to former spouses or partners. It is a means to ensure that both parties can maintain a reasonable standard of living after the breakdown of a relationship. Whether within the context of married couples or unmarried couples in adult interdependent relationships, spousal support aims to address any income disparities, financial hardship, or economic disadvantage that may exist upon the breakdown of a relationship, or to assist with self-sufficiency upon the breakdown of a relationship.
The Divorce Act (Canada) and the Family Law Act (Alberta) govern support obligations for former spouses or partners, while the Adult Interdependent Relationships Act defines and protects the rights of adult interdependent partners.
Spousal support or partner support can encompass various factors, such as the length of the relationship, any children of the relationship, roles during the relationship, financial needs, any contract for the payment of support, ability to become self-sufficient, and ability to provide support. We can help you navigate this area of family law with sensitivity and understanding, considering the unique circumstances of your case.
