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Spousal Support

Designed to help ensure financial fairness after separation or divorce. If you're facing spousal support concerns, it’s important to understand how it works and how it might apply to your situation.

If you’re unsure where to start or need guidance, we’re here to help you navigate the complexities of spousal support—so you can move forward with confidence.

Common Questions About Spousal Support in BC

  • Spousal support is financial assistance paid by one ex-partner to the other after separation or divorce. It’s designed to help the lower-earning partner get back on their feet and prevent serious financial hardship.

  • Not every separation results in spousal support. A few factors determine eligibility, such as:

    • Financial difference between partners

    • Length of the relationship (longer relationships = more likely to involve support)

    • Roles in the relationship (e.g., did one partner sacrifice career growth to raise kids?)

    • Impact of separation on both parties’ financial stability

    We analyze your situation and help you understand whether spousal support applies to you.

  • There’s no fixed number, but B.C. courts use Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines to determine the amount and duration. Factors include:

    • Each partner’s income

    • The length of the relationship

    • Whether there are children involved

    • The recipient’s need vs. the payer’s ability to pay

    We help ensure you’re paying or receiving a fair amount.

  • It depends. In general:

    • Short-term relationships (under 5 years): Support may last for about half the length of the relationship.

    • Long-term relationships (10+ years): Support could last for many years—or even indefinitely in some cases.

    Support often ends if the recipient becomes financially independent.

  • Absolutely. Many couples negotiate spousal support as part of a Separation Agreement. If you and your ex can agree, we’ll draft a legally binding document to make it official. If not, mediation or court may be necessary.

  • Spousal support isn’t optional—if a legal order is in place, it must be followed. If payments stop, enforcement agencies (like B.C.’s Family Maintenance Enforcement Program) can take action, including wage garnishment or asset seizure. If you're dealing with non-payment, we can help.

  • Yes. If circumstances change—like job loss, retirement, or a major life event—you may be able to increase, decrease, or end payments. It’s best to act quickly if you need a modification, and we can guide you through the process.

  • Whether you're seeking support, negotiating an agreement, or challenging an unfair demand, we’ve got your back. Mahogany Law Group connects you with the best in-house lawyer for your situation, so you get expert advice from day one.

    Let’s start working together.

  • Always Taking the Time to Listen

    I highly recommend Alexandra Ghihor as a lawyer. She provided me with effective information and solutions for my case, always taking the time to listen to all my concerns and doubts. Alexandra was always punctual and took enough time to clarify all my questions thoroughly. Her professionalism, patience, and dedication made a challenging situation much easier to handle. I truly appreciate her guidance and support throughout the process. If you’re looking for a lawyer who genuinely cares and delivers results, Alexandra is the one to trust!

    ★★★★★
    Aura (Google Review)

  • Above and Beyond

    I have worked with Puneet Mann for a couple years now. She is an amazing lawyer. She has gone above and beyond for me and my family. It's nice to have a lawyer who believes in you and has your back. I'm glad to have her in my corner. Thankful for everything they have done so far.

    ★★★★★
    RC (Google Review)

  • Absolutely Fantastic!

    Francis Lepp was absolutely fantastic when helping me get my divorce. This is never a pleasant experience, but she made it so easy and provided a safe and welcoming atmosphere while I was navigating through this tough time. She answered all my questions, in which I had many. Communicated effectively, and explained things to me in ways that were simple and easy to understand. Everything went smoothly, all paperwork done quickly. I highly recommend her!

    ★★★★★
    CF (Google Review)

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Our Reliable
5-Step Process

Choosing the right lawyer for your family law matter shouldn’t feel like guesswork. At Mahogany Law Group LLP, we use a careful, step-by-step approach to pair you with the advocate best suited to your situation.

Our process brings clarity and confidence by listening to your needs, assessing your case, and aligning you with the right expertise. We provide the guidance and support you need, every step of the way. You’re in capable hands—let us help you find the right lawyer.

  • We begin by collecting essential details—such as your name and the names of those involved—to check for potential conflicts of interest and confirm we’re able to assist you. Our priority is ensuring we can represent you effectively. If any issues arise, we’ll let you know promptly and transparently.

    Ready to take the first step? Visit our Contact Page to get started.

  • Next, you’ll sit down with one of our experienced lawyers for a one-hour consultation. This is your opportunity to share your story, review any relevant documents, and ask questions. Our lawyer will provide initial insights, outline potential options, and help you determine the best path forward for your situation.

    Our standard hourly rates typically start at $300, but our initial consultation fee is $200. If you choose to proceed with us, this fee will be credited back to you, effectively making the consultation complimentary.

  • This is where we stand out. After carefully reviewing your case as a team, we’ll recommend the lawyer whose skills and approach best align with your needs. The decision is ultimately yours, and we’re here to support you in choosing a legal advocate you feel confident in. Our experience shows that a well-matched lawyer can make all the difference.

  • When you’re ready to proceed, we’ll formally open your file to begin working on your behalf. As is standard practice in legal services, a retainer will be required to initiate the process. We’ll guide you through this step to ensure everything is set up smoothly and efficiently.

  • Now we roll up our sleeves. Your lawyer will take the lead on your case, keeping you informed and working closely with you to pursue your goals. When it’s in your best interest, we collaborate as a team to bring added insight, and if another lawyer on our team is a stronger fit, we’ll shift seamlessly—our close-knit approach ensures a smooth transition

Our Spousal Support Lawyers