Will I be okay financially? Will I pay too much?
Spousal support is not automatic. At Tailor Law, we use strategic analysis and advanced software calculations to determine your entitlement, the right amount, and the appropriate duration—protecting your financial future with precision.
Editor's Note: Legal advice on this page was reviewed by Deepa Tailor, Principal Lawyer, in November 2025 to ensure compliance with current Ontario Family Law Act standards.
Every spousal support case is unique. Courts and lawyers consider multiple factors when determining fair and appropriate support arrangements.
Longer marriages typically result in longer support durations. Marriages over 20 years may result in indefinite support until retirement or a material change in circumstances.
Did one spouse stay home to raise children while the other advanced their career? Courts recognize the economic disadvantage this creates and compensate accordingly.
The greater the income gap between spouses, the higher the potential support amount. We analyze gross income, net income, and tax implications to determine fair quantum.
Can the recipient spouse become financially independent? We factor in education, work history, age, health, and retraining opportunities when assessing self-sufficiency timelines.
Older spouses or those with health issues may have limited ability to re-enter the workforce, which can extend support duration or increase the amount.
Primary caregivers may have reduced earning capacity due to ongoing parenting duties. This is factored into both entitlement and duration calculations.
Support is not automatic. It's based on a strategic analysis of entitlement, quantum (amount), and duration. We use the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAGs) and advanced Divorcemate software to calculate precise, defensible support positions.
Do you qualify for spousal support? Entitlement is based on:
How much should be paid? We calculate this using:
How long should support be paid? Duration depends on:
The SSAGs are not law, but they are the most widely used tool in Canada for calculating spousal support. They provide a range of support amounts and durations based on income levels, length of marriage, and whether there are children.
At Tailor Law, we use professional Divorcemate software to generate SSAG calculations that are precise, court-ready, and defensible. This ensures you're neither paying too much nor receiving too little.
From initial assessment to final enforcement, we guide you through every stage with strategic precision and advanced calculation tools.
We review your marriage history, income levels, roles during the relationship, and financial disclosure to assess entitlement.
Using Divorcemate software, we generate precise spousal support calculations based on the Advisory Guidelines and your specific circumstances.
Both parties exchange Form 13.1 Financial Statements, tax returns, and supporting documents to verify income and expenses.
We develop a negotiation position within the SSAG range, considering tax implications, lump sum options, and duration terms.
Most cases settle through negotiation or mediation. If necessary, we litigate to secure court-ordered support that protects your interests.
We ensure compliance through court orders, garnishment if needed, and handle future review/variation applications when circumstances change.
Spousal support can be paid monthly (periodic) or as a one-time payment (lump sum). Each option has strategic advantages and disadvantages depending on your situation.
One-Time Settlement
A single payment that satisfies all future support obligations. This provides finality and eliminates ongoing financial ties between former spouses.
Monthly Support
Regular monthly payments (typically) that continue for a specified duration or until a triggering event (remarriage, retirement, death, etc.).
The choice between lump sum and periodic payments is highly strategic. At Tailor Law, we analyze your tax situation, cash flow, risk tolerance, and long-term goals to recommend the option that maximizes your financial outcome. We also negotiate hybrid arrangements when appropriate.
We combine advanced technology, strategic expertise, and compassionate advocacy to secure the support outcome you deserve.
We use professional-grade Divorcemate software to generate precise SSAG calculations that are court-ready and defensible.
We analyze tax implications of lump sum vs. periodic payments to maximize your net financial outcome.
If your ex-spouse fails to pay, we use garnishment, contempt motions, and other enforcement tools to secure compliance.
92% of our spousal support cases settle without trial through strategic negotiation and mediation.
When settlement isn't possible, we're prepared to litigate aggressively at the Superior Court in Brampton.
We handle future modification applications when income, health, or circumstances materially change.
Clear answers to the most complex spousal support questions.
Still have questions?
View Full FAQ LibrarySchedule a consultation to receive a preliminary SSAG calculation and strategic assessment of your spousal support entitlement or obligations.
By submitting this form, you agree to our privacy policy. All consultations are confidential.