Leading Spousal Maintenance Lawyers Perth

Spousal maintenance is a payment which a person makes to their former partner to financially support them.

Spousal maintenance is not an automatic right and unless there is a mutual agreement that spousal maintenance will be provided, the person seeking financial support must obtain a Court Order.

When the Court is determining whether a person should pay spousal maintenance to their former partner, the following factors are considered:

Whether the person seeking spousal maintenance can meet their reasonable living expenses from any income they earn, or income-generating assets they own or have an interest in. It should be noted that the Court will not consider any Centrelink benefits or child support payments as “income”, when considering this factor; and

Whether the person who has been asked to pay spousal maintenance can afford all or some of the amount they have been asked to pay.

On occasion, circumstances can arise where a person making an Application for spousal maintenance demonstrates that they are unable to financially support their reasonable living expenses however, the Court does not make an Order for spousal maintenance. This is because their former partner does not have the financial means to provide them with the support they require.

A spousal maintenance payment is not always in the form of money and can be a payment which is made on behalf of your former partner. Examples include mortgage repayments, car repayments, payment of council rates, water rates, utilities, insurances, etc.

Spousal maintenance payments made in the form of money can either be made by providing a lump sum payment or periodical payments, being payments made on a weekly/fortnightly/monthly basis.

Our family lawyers have extensive experience in both making and defending spousal maintenance Applications. We can provide you with realistic advice regarding the potential outcomes of any Application. If you find yourself in this situation, contact us for an objective view and advice on your options.

Client testimonials

What People Say About Us

“I was recommended Calverley Johnston, by another solicitor when I was in need of a family lawyer. I first met with the principal, Melissa and found her to be very approachable, knowledgeable and sympathetic to my situation. I felt at ease and that she would be looking after my best interests. I also dealt with Raechel and found her to be excellent. I was very impressed with her level of preparation of my case, to assist Counsel with resolving my matter. If you are in need of a family lawyer, I would not hesitate to recommend Melissa, Raechel and the Calverley Johnston team.”

B.P

“Highly recommend this firm. I dealt primarily with Melissa, she always went above and beyond, very patient and understanding. At times when she was away, I would be notified and her associates were always brought up to date with my case and able to help me with any queries. Going through the family court system is one of the hardest experiences I have had to endure and I appreciate I had Melissa there, guiding me along the way. She made the experience as bearable as humanly possible.Have no hesitation to recommend Melissa and her colleagues to anyone looking for advice and/or representation.”

N.J

“I had been to a few lawyers before I came here. Natalija was very professional, very punctual and very patient with me as when it comes to my child’s safety things can get heated as anyone new to this situation will tell you. She itemised every expense, was always in touch before hearings and informed me of any time she would be unavailable which her colleague would then cover. I considered my case extremely messy and was glad to have someone of her character representing me.”

S.K

“Melissa, Natalie and the team at Calverley Johnston were very helpful in handling my family law matter. They were always professional, courteous, and pragmatic dealing with the matters to hand. I have no hesitation in recommending their family law services.”

S.B

“Calverley Johnston are professional and friendly team. I found them to be efficient and helpful when I needed assistance. Highly recommended.”

Spousal Maintenance

Leading Spousal Maintenance Lawyers Perth

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N.J

S.K

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Services

Perth Office

Geraldton Office