Spousal Support
Facing Separation in British Columbia and Unsure About Spousal Support?
Separation is a difficult time filled with emotional and financial challenges. Spousal support is one area that can cause significant stress if left unresolved. At Valerie M. Little Law Corporation, our experienced spousal support lawyer in British Columbia understands the complexities of spousal support. She is here to guide you through the process to obtain spousal support with her years of knowledge and her extensive experience.
What is Spousal Support?
Spousal support or spousal maintenance is a financial arrangement between spouses after separation or divorce.
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​It aims to:
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Balance the economic impact of separation: One spouse may have given up career opportunities to raise children or support the other spouse’s career. Spousal support can help achieve a fairer financial situation.
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Promote self-sufficiency: The objective is often to help the lower earning spouse become financially independent.
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Recognize contributions: Spousal support can acknowledge a spouse's non-financial contributions to the family such as childcare or homemaking responsibilities during the marriage.
Do You Qualify for Spousal Support in British Columbia?
The Family Law Act, the Divorce Act and the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines are the primary laws regulating spousal support in British Columbia. The Family Law Act outlines the various factors a court considers when deciding spousal support. In BC, eligibility and the amount of spousal support is determined based on several factors such as:
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the length of your marriage or common-law relationship.
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each spouse's income and earning capacity.
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the age and physical health of both parties.
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whether there are children involved.
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the contributions made by each spouse to the relationship during the relationship.
Our Spousal Support Lawyer Can Help
Our trusted family law lawyer can assist you in various ways, including:
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Assessing your eligibility for spousal support or your responsibility to pay spousal support.
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Determining the appropriate amount of support.
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Negotiating a fair spousal support agreement or Court Order.
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Representing you in court, if necessary, if matters are not able to be resolved outside of court by agreement.
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Calculating spousal support pursuant to the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines.
The Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines offer a range for potential spousal support amounts from low to medium to high quantum. They also specify a duration of spousal support. These amounts and times are based on the length of the relationship and the income of the parties. Unlike other provinces where these figures are only a starting point and the ultimate decision is left to a Judge, in British Columbia, the courts regularly implement the Spousal Support Guidelines.
Every Case is Unique
At Valerie M. Little Law Corporation, the lawyer understands that every spousal support case is different and requires a unique approach. Valerie will work closely with you to better understand your specific situation and create a personalized strategy to meet your needs. She will ensure that your opinions and concerns are heard and she will take a stand for a just and sustainable outcome for spousal support.
Are You Considering a Separation Agreement?
If you are considering a separation agreement, it is essential to understand that a well drafted agreement can significantly impact your future. It can help prevent disputes about spousal support and address other important issues such as property division, parenting and contact time.
Our experienced lawyer at Valerie M. Little Law Corporation is dedicated to guiding you through the separation process. Valerie will listen to your concerns to try to tailor a resolution that best meets your needs in your particular circumstance. Valerie will take the time to explain the legal implications of the different options available to you be it periodic monthly support or lump sum support and ensure that you fully understand the terms. She will also ensure that the agreement is clear, comprehensive and legally binding so that you can have peace of mind to know that your interests have been addressed and are protected.
Get the Support You Deserve
At Valerie M. Little Law Corporation, Valerie understands that dealing with legal challenges related to spousal support can be overwhelming and stressful. Valerie is ready to assist you in navigating the legal complexities relating to spousal support and to achieve a positive outcome. Valerie M. Little Law Corporation is a family law firm that is centrally located in New Westminster and serves the surrounding areas of Burnaby, Maple Ridge, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Vancouver, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Port Moody, Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale, Delta, and Langley.
She is here to help you. Do not hesitate to schedule a consultation with her to discuss your family law situation and explore your legal options. Valerie M. Little is committed to providing her clients with personalized and effective legal solutions. Call her today at 604-526-3333.