Spousal Maintenance

About the service

Spousal maintenance otherwise known as alimony is financial support paid by one party to a marriage or de facto relationship to their former spouse or partner. This is provided when the former spouse or partner is unable to adequately support themselves. Spousal maintenance is discretionary.

In deciding whether you are entitled to or required to pay spousal support, a Court considers the needs of the claimant and the paying spouse’s capacity to pay. Other relevant factors include both parties’ ages and health, income, property, financial resources, abilities to work, what is a suitable standard of living, and if the relationship has affected each party’s ability to earn an income. A Court also takes into account whether either party has any children living with them.

At Vic Rajah Family and Estate Lawyers we are able to advise you about the risks and benefits of making or defending a prospective claim for spousal maintenance and to negotiate on your behalf and or make any necessary application to a Court.