Many people know the term “alimony,” which is what spousal support is called in some jurisdictions outside of Canada. In British Columbia, spousal support is intended to ensure that one spouse is not economically devastated after divorce. Many factors go into the determination of entitlement to, and amount of, spousal support. Many couples negotiate spousal support as part of an out-of-court resolution process of this and other issues in separation.
Laughlin & Company Lawyers Mediators in Port Coquitlam has been representing individual spouses in divorce and separation proceedings for more than 15 years. Our lawyers’ experience with the issues connected to spousal support enables them to recommend reasonable solutions that can lead to an expedient and fair settlement.
Determining Spousal Support
Spousal support is an evolving area of family law in British Columbia. While in the past it was more common for one spouse to stay home and raise children and the other to work, more and more families have two income earners. A central issue in the determination of spousal support is what is required for one spouse to become self-sufficient after divorce.
Traditionally, courts have followed the federal Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines to determine whether one spouse is entitled to support, and if so, how much and for how long. While courts will still use this analysis if the issue comes before them, many times the issue is simply negotiated by the spouses privately. As part of a separation agreement, which is the precursor to most divorces, couples will decide among themselves whether support is due, often alongside other issues such as property division.
Contact Us
Our firm’s Port Coquitlam lawyers offer spousal support advice as part of our broader family law practice. With an extensive commercial law practice, our firm is particularly able to handle complex financial issues that arise between divorcing couples. To schedule a consultation, find a lawyer now at 604-239-0800 or get in touch online. We serve clients in the Tri-Cities municipalities of Port Moody, Poco and Coquitlam, and throughout the Lower Mainland.
