Every divorce is different, but it’s common to encounter the question of spousal maintenance at some point in the proceedings. Learn what this is, when it’s paid and by whom in the video below.
What Is Spousal Maintenance? Transcript
What is spousal maintenance? This is a regular payment made by a former husband, wife or civil partner, and often made as part of a court order and divorce. Its purpose is to provide ongoing financial support from one spouse to another post-divorce, ensuring both parties in the relationship can meet their ongoing needs.
The need for support often arises where one spouse has a much lower income or no income at all. For example, having taken a career break for family reasons or having limited earning potential due to their age or a health condition.
So, how much spousal maintenance needs to be paid, and for how long? There’s no set amount of spousal maintenance. Each decision is case-specific. The court’s objective is to achieve a fair outcome.
It’s important to seek specialist legal advice in these situations to avoid a costly dispute. Discussing your situation in full with an experienced family law solicitor at Newtons can make the process easier and may lead to a sensible, pragmatic settlement being reached by agreement.
Questions About Spousal Maintenance?
Having watched our video or read our transcript above, we hope you now understand what spousal maintenance is and when it’s paid. However, it’s perfectly normal to have additional questions, especially when spousal maintenance factors into your own divorce proceedings.
For support to understand the full implications of spousal maintenance in your own unique situation, please speak to our experienced family law team. Navigating divorce processes and legal orders is simpler with Newtons Solicitors.