Spousal Maintenance.

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Get the financial support you need after marriage or de facto breakup.

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What is spousal maintenance?

Spousal maintenance provides financial help from one partner to the other after separation, when the receiving partner can’t meet basic living costs on their own. It’s determined by financial need, where your ex-partner can afford it and you genuinely require it to avoid financial hardship. Payments can be regular cash amounts or a one-off lump sum to cover bills, utilities or daily expenses.

Our relationship lawyers assess your situation to see if you qualify, whether you’re seeking support or defending a claim. We explain how courts look at your income, earning capacity, living expenses and your ex-partner’s ability to pay, aiming for fair and practical arrangements.

Are you seeking urgent support?

When legal issues feel pressing, timely help matters. Contact us today to see how we can assist.

How spousal maintenance works.

A spousal maintenance claim must be filed quickly within 12 months of divorce for married couples or two years of separation for de facto relationships. Maintenance is usually short-term, often to help with retraining, study or re-entering the workforce. It ends if you remarry or enter a new de facto relationship.

It’s important to note that eligibility for spousal maintenance isn’t guaranteed. The courts weigh up factors like your age, health, childcare responsibilities and standard of living during the relationship. We guide you through urgent interim applications or final orders, helping negotiate outcomes that fit your circumstances without unnecessary court battles.

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FAQ.

Common questions we hear.

  • You need to show genuine financial need (like covering basic living costs) and that your ex-partner has the capacity to pay after their own expenses. Courts consider your earning potential, health, children and lifestyle during the relationship to determine your eligibility.

  • Spousal maintenance is only intended as a short-term solution to help you get back on your feet, such as to retrain or find work. It also depends on your circumstances. The maintenance ends if you remarry, enter a new de facto relationship or become financially independent.

  • Yes, same as married couples in WA, but you must apply within two years of separation and prove the de facto relationship qualifies under the rules.

Meet our dedicated Family Lawyers.

HHG Legal is one of Perth’s longest serving law firms, trusted in WA for over 100 years. When partnering with us, you’ll always work with a lawyer who is experienced in relationships law.

What our clients are saying about us.

  • Professional, efficient and friendly. Highly recommend dealing with HHG Legal Group.
    L.
    Perth office
  • My experience with the team at HHG Legal was nothing short of outstanding. I was thoroughly impressed with the honest services I received from Ben Majoe and Simon Creek together with all the members of the HHG team. Ben and Simon I appreciate your professionalism, knowledge and empathy.
    A.B
    Bunbury office
  • I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you again for all your support so far. I really do have a lot of respect for you and the way you’ve been handling everything with care, clarity, and professionalism.
    A.
    Perth office

Local expertise. Multiple locations.

Our team of experienced lawyers operates from five locations across Perth and regional Western Australia. We’re local people who understand the area, backed by the expertise of one of WA’s most established firms. We take the time to listen, explain your options clearly, and guide you openly, providing reliable representation and quality advice at every step. Because every client deserves our full attention.

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The road to resolution.

We believe in a clear path forward. From our first conversation, we break things into manageable steps, keep you informed and work steadily toward a fair outcome, until we reach the resolution you’re seeking.

  • Consultation

    We listen to your situation and outline your options.
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  • Strategy

    We create a tailored plan to protect your interests.

  • Action

    We prepare documents, negotiate, or represent you.

  • Resolution

    We work toward the best possible outcome for you.

Tell us what you need

Every situation is different. Whether you’re exploring options or ready to move forward, we’re here to listen and find the right solution.

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