A Practical Guide to Spousal and Partner Support
Divorce and separation are never easy—and when legal and financial matters come into play, the process can feel overwhelming. One of the most common concerns individuals face during a separation is understanding how spousal or partner support works. Also known as alimony, this area of family law can be complex, with many variables involved.
At Chahal Law, our experienced family lawyers are here to guide you through spousal or partner support issues with clear legal advice tailored to your situation. Whether you’re preparing to separate or already in the process, this guide will help you understand your rights and responsibilities when it comes to financial support.
Spousal or partner support refers to financial payments made by one former spouse or adult interdependent partner to the other after a separation. These payments are designed to help the lower-earning or financially disadvantaged partner maintain a reasonable standard of living post-separation.
In Alberta, both married individuals and common-law partners (legally referred to as Adult Interdependent Partners) may be eligible for support. Spousal support is based on three primary considerations:
Entitlement: Who is eligible to receive support?
Amount: How much financial support should be paid?
Duration: How long should payments continue?
There is no automatic right to receive spousal support in Alberta. Courts evaluate entitlement on a case-by-case basis, taking into account:
The roles each partner played during the relationship
Financial disparities between the partners
Any economic disadvantage caused by the relationship or its breakdown
For example, if one spouse supported the other through school or gave up a career to care for children, the court may find that spousal support is appropriate.
Hiring a skilled family lawyer is crucial. At Chahal Law, we have extensive experience advocating for clients in spousal support cases and drafting legally sound separation agreements.
Spousal support payments vary based on several factors, including:
The income and financial resources of both partners
The financial needs and living expenses of each party
The length of the relationship or marriage
Contributions made by each partner (e.g., homemaking, childcare)
Existing agreements or court orders
Whether children are involved and who has custody
Generally, the wider the income gap and the longer the relationship, the more likely it is that spousal support will be awarded.
The duration of support depends largely on:
The length of the relationship
The time it will take for the recipient to become self-sufficient
Parenting responsibilities or other obligations
There is no fixed timeline—each situation is unique. Our lawyers at Chahal Law will assess your circumstances to help you understand what to expect and how to plan accordingly.
Yes. In Alberta, individuals in common-law relationships are considered Adult Interdependent Partners (AIPs) and may be eligible for spousal support.
To qualify as an AIP, you must:
Have lived together in a relationship of interdependence for at least three years, or
Have a child together and live in a relationship of some permanence, or
Sign an Adult Interdependent Partner agreement
Support rights and obligations are similar to those of married couples.
Whether you are the paying or receiving party, understanding your rights under Alberta family law is essential. A knowledgeable lawyer can help you:
Draft a legally enforceable separation agreement
Understand your entitlements or obligations
Negotiate fair and reasonable terms
Avoid costly mistakes or unnecessary conflict
If you’re navigating a divorce or separation and have questions about spousal or partner support in Alberta, we’re here to help. Our team at Chahal Law provides reliable, personalized legal advice to support you through every step of your family law matter.
Contact us today at (780) 461-0989 to book your consultation.
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Phone: (780) 461-0989
