How do I claim spousal maintenance?

How do I claim spousal maintenance?

If you cannot reach an agreement, you can file an application in the Federal Circuit Court seeking spousal maintenance orders. You will need to set out your income and expenses in a Financial Statement when you make the application and your spouse will need to do the same when they file a response.

Who pays spousal maintenance?

Family Law matters The Family Court or Federal Circuit Court deal with two types of spousal maintenance applications: Spouse maintenance is financial support paid by a party to a marriage to their former husband or wife in circumstances where they are unable to adequately support themselves.

How long do I have to pay spousal maintenance?

Spousal maintenance is usually paid for a relatively short period of time while a person gets back on their feet. Spousal maintenance applications must be made within 12 months of a divorce being finalised, while de facto partners have 2 years to make an application after the breakdown of the relationship.