Ending a relationship is hard enough—financial uncertainty shouldn’t make it harder. At Gigera Law Services, we help clients understand and navigate the complex legal landscape of spousal support (also known as alimony or maintenance).
Whether you are seeking support or defending against an unfair claim, we bring clarity, strategy, and strength to protect your financial rights in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Nigeria.
Spousal support is a legal obligation for one spouse to provide financial assistance to the other after separation or divorce. It’s designed to:
Spousal support can be short-term, long-term, or indefinite—depending on the law and the circumstances of the relationship.
Temporary Support (during separation)
Periodic Support (monthly payments)
Lump-Sum Settlements
Post-Divorce Modifications
Enforcing Unpaid Support
International Support Issues
Spousal Support for Same-Sex or Common-Law Partners
In Alberta, spousal support is governed by the Divorce Act (federal) and the Family Law Act (provincial). Payments are guided by the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAGs) but remain discretionary.
We assist with:
In the UK, spousal maintenance can be awarded during divorce proceedings or in financial settlements. Courts consider the “needs-based” approach, evaluating income, assets, and living standards.
We support clients with:
Applying for interim or long-term spousal maintenance
Negotiating clean break orders
Contesting or enforcing maintenance orders
Appealing unfair support awards
Spousal support in Nigeria is regulated by the Matrimonial Causes Act for statutory marriages and by customary or religious laws in other unions. While not always automatic, maintenance may be awarded during or after divorce based on need and contributions to the marriage.
We provide:
Legal representation in support claims in family courts
Drafting spousal maintenance agreements
Assistance with financial disclosures
Cross-border enforcement of Nigerian court orders
Protects Your Financial Security
Whether you’re seeking support or being asked to pay, fair legal representation ensures you’re not taken advantage of.
Avoids Costly Mistakes
Miscalculating entitlements or failing to respond can result in severe legal and financial consequences.
Supports Long-Term Stability
We help ensure any agreement or court order is realistic, enforceable, and adaptable to life changes.
Initial Case Evaluation
We assess the marriage history, financial disclosures, and support needs.
Legal Strategy Development
We determine entitlement, duration, and quantum based on regional laws.
Negotiation or Mediation
We seek a fair agreement out of court when possible to save time and cost.
Court Representation (if necessary)
We present a strong case for or against support in family court.
Post-Judgment Support
We assist with modifications, appeals, or enforcement as life circumstances change.
Eligibility depends on factors like the length of the relationship, roles during the marriage, earning capacity, and financial need. Courts assess this on a case-by-case basis.
It can be temporary, time-limited (e.g., post-divorce transition), or indefinite in long marriages or when the receiving spouse can't become self-supporting.
Yes. If your financial situation changes significantly (job loss, illness, remarriage), you may apply to vary the amount or duration.
We can help you enforce the order through garnishment, liens, court orders, or administrative enforcement programs.
In many cases, yes—particularly in Canada and the UK. We’ll assess your eligibility based on the jurisdiction’s recognition of cohabiting or de facto relationships.
⚠️ Statute Expiry: 2-year limitation for retroactive claims (Calgary)
⚠️ Asset Flight: Payors moving wealth to Dubai/Switzerland
⚠️ Remarriage Traps: Losing rights without legal documentation
⚠️ Customary Waivers: Signing unenforceable tribal agreements
✅ Forensic Accounting:
✅ Tax Optimization:
Gigera Law Services proudly serves individuals, families, immigrants, entrepreneurs, and organizations in Canada, Nigeria, and the UK
©2025. Gigera Law Services | All Rights Reserved.