Spousal support is often an uncertain and difficult area in which to advise clients. This paper reviews the legislative provisions related to spousal support and identifies key cases that deal with entitlement, imputing income, the means and conduct of the parties, and interim versus permanent orders. Brief summaries of those recent spousal support cases are provided as an appendix. The paper also includes a discussion of common errors to avoid when dealing with spousal support matters, and provides a list of exceptions that can affect spousal support outcomes.

This paper is part of a collection presented at LESA’s Family Law 25 program in Edmonton on March 3, 2016 and in Calgary on March 8, 2016.