Spousal support pertains to the financial compensation that a spouse or common-law partner is obligated to provide to the other party following their separation or divorce. In Ontario, the Court has the legal authority, granted by either the Family Law Act or the Divorce Act, to mandate one individual to provide financial support for their dependents.

The Court takes into account many considerations while determining the eligibility of individuals to receive or furnish spousal support, as well as the duration and amount of such support. This typically involves evaluating the present assets and capabilities of each party, as well as their prospective assets and capabilities, and the capacity of either side to contribute to their support or obtain the permission of the other party.

Lawyers commonly utilize the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines to ascertain and advise the Court on the appropriate party responsible for paying spousal support and the specific amount to be paid.