Why Spousal Support Isn’T Always a Tightrope Walk
The best divorce lawyers in Mississauga say that the judges consider granting financial support to spouses, if, after the divorce, their living standards are bound to depreciate. There are several factors that judges consider before alimony settlement. Following are some factors which can help you approach spousal support and make an enlightened decision.
How Many Years Did Your Marriage Last?
In case you were married for a short period, let's say for one or two years then, most likely, you don't need to pay any support to your spouse. This is because your marriage was so brief, that nobody got a chance to get accustomed to different living standards. But, if you were married for three years or more, then you will be asked to pay support.
Do You Both Earn?
If your spouse is employed and earning a considerable sum, then you can relax as the judge will not grant any support to her because it is unnecessary. Since, your spouse is earning and can be self-sufficient on her income; therefore your support amount is not needed to maintain her living standards. But in case, your spouse has no source of income or maybe a low paying job, then the judge may find the need of spousal support.
Do You Have Minor Children?
Children play a significant role in deciding divorce outcomes. In case you have minor children from your marriage, then they will play a crucial role in settling your alimony. Instead, you may be asked to pay child support which is much more important than support for your spouse. The judge will then consider whether your income is sufficient to pay support for both. If not, then maybe you will be asked to pay child support only.
How Old are You and Your Spouse?
This is another deciding factor in granting financial support to your spouse. The judge will consider ages of both and decide accordingly. In case the divorce happens at an early stage, like at an age of 35 years, then you have more time to earn money. But in case the divorce happens at 50 or even 60 years of age, then you don't have much resources at hand and therefore will be asked to pay support.
There are a lot of factors that are considered for a divorce, but the ones above are some basic ones common to every province's judiciary. If the judge asks you to pay a certain amount as spousal support, then you can file a plea to revise the amount in case you think that your financial situation won't stay the same in future.