INTERIM SPOUSAL MAINTENANCE The law – concepts and principles Section 74(1) of the Family Law Act empowers the Court to “make such order as it considers proper for the provision of maintenance” in accordance with Pt VIII of the Act. That primary requirement is set out in s 72(1) of the Act, as follows: (1) A party to a marriage is liable to maintain the other party, to the extent that the first-mentioned party is reasonably able to do so,...
Spousal maintenance Similar to child maintenance applications, a party can apply for spousal maintenance in the Court seeking financial support until all issues in the Court have been resolved. A spousal maintenance application can be made in its own right. It is not necessary to seek other financial relief from the other party. The Courts consider the income levels of both parties and the expenditure of each party for their day-to-day living and other expenses. If a person does not...