Recently we discussed the two ways in which spousal support is calculated in Canada: using the “with child support” formula or the “without child support” formula. Another matter to consider with regard to child support and alimony is taxes. Prior to May 1997, child support and spousal support were tax…
The federal Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines are commonly used to determine the amount and duration of spousal support to be paid. When using the guidelines’ formulas for calculating support, it is important that each party’s reported income is accurate. The guidelines are designed to generate a range of support amounts…
When you think of marriage, you likely think of a relationship based on emotions and shared experience. But the law views marriage differently. In Canada, provincial, territorial and federal laws treat spousal relationships as financial partnerships, and the law sets out rules for the division of matrimonial property when a…
If you are in or have recently ended a common-law relationship in Ontario, then it is important to understand that the property division rules that apply to married couples do not apply to common-law spouses. In general, the property purchased by one common-law spouse belongs to that spouse alone, and…
In 2008, Ontario’s Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines were issued in their final form. The guidelines are used by judges and lawyers to establish spousal support agreements. As we discussed in a previous post, a number of factors, including child support, can affect how much spousal support a person receives. Use…
In Ontario, married and common law couples who are splitting up can create and sign separation agreements. These agreements can address a wide variety of issues. Today let’s discuss spousal support. When deciding whether or not spousal support should be paid, it is important that each spouse or common law…