SPOUSAL MAINTENANCE

Spousal maintenance is money paid from one party to the other following separation so that the second person is able to meet their financial needs.

Usually this is to offset a significant income disparity between the parties or a disparity in their respective expenses.

Spousal maintenance relates only to the expenses of the parties and not of the children, which are separately covered by the payment of child support. Maintenance is most commonly paid on an interim basis between separation and property settlement and can be ordered on an urgent basis if there is an immediate need for financial assistance of one party. In exceptional cases, spousal maintenance may be paid on an ongoing basis following property settlement, although usually only for a limited period and often on a declining scale.

The law provides for spousal maintenance after separation for both married couples and de facto relationships.

Many people experience confusion as to whether or not they are entitled to, or may be required to pay, spousal maintenance following separation. Starling Family Law can assist you to understand your entitlements and obligations relating to spousal maintenance.