Trusted legal guidance for spousal support claims, disputes, and enforcement across Toronto and the GTA.
What Do We Offer?
Spousal support is a legal obligation that can arise following separation or divorce, where one spouse is entitled to support, and the other spouse can pay. The purpose of support is to redress economic disadvantage caused by the relationship, to reward financial or caregiving contributions to the other spouse’s self-sufficiency, and to promote self-sufficiency where it is appropriate and feasible.
For married spouses, spousal support claims are typically brought under the Divorce Act, while unmarried spouses or common-law partners without a marriage-like relationship can seek relief under Ontario’s Family Law Act if certain statutory criteria are met. Spousal support can be ordered as periodic payments for a fixed term or indefinitely, or in a lump sum. In 2019–2020, spousal support cases made up about 19% of the family support cases registered with maintenance enforcement programs, according to Statistics Canada.
Book a confidential consultation
Courts will consider statutory factors under either the Divorce Act or the Family Law Act. Once entitlement is established, they will then typically refer to the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAG) for a reasonable range of amount and duration based on Ontario case law and statutory factors.
Ontario courts use the SSAG in most cases to determine a range for the amount and duration of spousal support. The Guidelines apply two formulas: a without child support formula based primarily on the income difference and the length of the relationship, and a with child support formula that makes an allowance for child support, apportions household income sharing between the recipient and the children, and preserves judicial discretion in all cases.
Ontario spousal support law is governed by federal legislation and provincial statutes that provide a variety of remedies for spouses following separation or divorce. Courts are granted significant discretion to determine entitlement, amount, and duration based on case law and a number of statutory factors. Obtaining knowledgeable and experienced legal advocacy is critical in all but the most straightforward cases.
Our team’s local experience plays an important role, not only in litigation but also in enforcement. Statistics Canada recently reported that 36% of the family support cases registered with maintenance enforcement programs were fully compliant for every month of the year in 2020–2021. Enforcement remains an issue. Although 84% of the total dollar amount owed across all registered cases was collected, broken-down and interrupted payments are common.
For cases involving only spousal support, the total proportion of payments collected during that year was approximately 79%, compared to 86% for child-support-only cases. These statistics illustrate the importance of properly structured support orders and informed legal advice at the outset, which can provide you.
Representation in disputed spousal support matters where entitlement, amount, or duration is contested. We prepare financial evidence, apply statutory factors and Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines, and advocate before Ontario courts to protect our clients’ legal and financial interests.
Assistance where both parties agree on spousal support terms but require legally sound documentation. We ensure agreements or consent orders comply with Ontario law and accurately reflect the parties’ intentions, reducing the risk of future disputes or unenforceable provisions.
Drafting and reviewing separation agreements that include spousal support clauses. We ensure support provisions are clear, fair, and defensible, addressing amount, duration, review terms, and enforcement to provide certainty and long-term financial stability.
Legal assessment of whether spousal support is payable and in what range. We evaluate statutory entitlement factors and apply the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines to provide informed advice on likely outcomes under Ontario family law.
Representation in applications to vary or terminate spousal support due to a material change in circumstances, such as income changes, retirement, or increased self-sufficiency. We ensure the legal threshold for variation is properly addressed.
Assistance when spousal support payments are not made as ordered. We advise on enforcement options, including court remedies and registration with the Family Responsibility Office, to help secure compliance with legally binding support obligations.
Divorce lawyers who have been where you are, we provide steady legal guidance, practical and realistic advice, and effective advocacy so you can make decisions confidently based on an understanding of your rights and obligations.
Extensive knowledge of Toronto and GTA family courts and Ontario spousal support law.
Proven experience handling straightforward and complex spousal support matters.
Consistent outcomes achieved through negotiation, mediation, and litigation.
Trusted family lawyers known for professionalism, integrity, and client care.
Ontario provides structured legal processes for separated or divorcing spouses to resolve family law matters—such as spousal support—in a fair and efficient way under the Divorce Act. The steps involved can vary depending on each person’s circumstances and any existing agreements.
Guiding Families Through Legal Challenges
At GTA Divorce Lawyers, we are built on a strong commitment to helping families navigate legal challenges with clarity and confidence. With two full-time Family Law lawyers, we provide experienced guidance on divorce, separation, parenting arrangements, child and spousal support, and property division.
Our team understands how personal and emotionally difficult these situations can be. That's why we take a compassionate, client-focused approach, offering clear advice, practical solutions, and strong representation both inside and outside the courtroom.
Whether you're beginning the separation process or trying to protect your rights during a dispute, our goal is to support you at every step and help you move forward with peace of mind.
Contact Our Lawyers
A results-driven Family Lawyer handling property division, support disputes, and high-conflict parenting cases. Tajinder’s sharp advocacy ensures the best outcomes for clients.
Avni specializes in Wills and Estate Planning along with family law matters such as separation, parenting, and financial settlements. Her approach combines clarity, care, and long-term planning.
A results-driven Family Lawyer handling property division, support disputes, and high-conflict parenting cases. Divya’s analytical mind and fearless advocacy ensure her clients’ best outcomes.
With 12+ years in family, real estate, and commercial law, Siv expertly manages complex files and supports clients through sensitive family matters with precision and compassion.
With over 20 years of legal experience, Fatma supports Family, Civil, and Estate Law cases with exceptional diligence. Her dedication and fairness make her a valued part of the legal team.
Navjot supports the family law team in court documentation, client coordination, and case management. She is known for her professionalism, empathy, and dedication to client success.
Spousal support decisions can have long-term financial consequences. A timely consultation with an experienced spousal support lawyer can provide clarity and reduce future disputes. We offer confidential consultations focused on practical guidance and realistic expectations.
We're proud to share the trust we've built:
Business Partners
Cases Done
Happy Clients
Awards Won
Courts will consider statutory factors under either the Divorce Act or the Family Law Act. Once entitlement is established, they will then typically reference the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAG) for a reasonable range of amount and duration based on Ontario case law and statutory factors.
Duration depends on relationship length, income disparity, age, and economic disadvantage. Some cases involve indefinite support.
Yes. A material change in circumstances may justify variation or termination of an existing order.
Yes. Child support follows federal guidelines and prioritises the child’s right to support. Spousal support is discretionary and relationship-based.
Legal enforcement options are available, including court remedies and assistance through enforcement authorities.
When your future and family are at stake, you need a team that combines legal excellence with human understanding. Our Toronto divorce lawyers provide trusted family law services and advice on child custody, property division, spousal support, and separation agreements. Take the first step toward resolution—book a free consultation with our GTA divorce lawyers today.
At GTA Divorce Lawyers, we are committed to providing expert legal support with empathy and integrity. Contact us for personalized assistance with all your family law needs.
1780 Albion Rd. Unit 8 Toronto, ON M9V 1C1
Copyright @ The Devolutions. All Rights Reserved 2024.
