Spousal support obligations in Canada can be limited or avoided through specific legal circumstances and agreements
While spousal support is a legal obligation in many Canadian divorces, there are several legitimate ways to potentially reduce or eliminate payment requirements:
- Sign a valid prenuptial agreement or marriage contract that addresses spousal support
- Demonstrate the recipient spouse is financially self-sufficient or has the capacity to become self-sufficient
- Prove the marriage was of very short duration with minimal financial integration
- Show evidence that the recipient spouse is in a new marriage or common-law relationship
- Document that both parties maintained financial independence throughout the marriage
It’s important to note that attempting to avoid spousal support by hiding income or assets is illegal in Canada. Any modification to support obligations must be done through proper legal channels with full financial disclosure. Consulting with a family law professional is essential to understand your specific rights and obligations under Canadian divorce law.