Divorce costs are separate from support payment calculations

The legal and administrative costs of obtaining a divorce are kept separate from calculations for spousal and child support payments. Support amounts are determined based on specific factors including:

• Income levels of both parties
• The established standard of living during the marriage
• Children’s needs including education, healthcare, and activities
• The receiving spouse’s financial needs and earning capacity
• The length of the marriage and any existing support agreements

While divorce proceedings may create temporary financial strain, Canadian courts ensure that support obligations are based on the parties’ actual ability to pay and the legitimate needs of dependents, not on the costs associated with the divorce process itself.