SUPPORT

The Federal and Provincial governments have passed laws intended to standardize the amount of child support payable in most cases.The amount of support is determined by the number of children, the parent(s) income(s) and the parenting circumstances (e.g.: how much time a child spends with either parent). These guidelines also provide a framework for calculating other expenses like medical, extracurricular and post secondary. 

Exceptions exist in unusual circumstances.

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The FRO is the Ontario government body normally in charge of collecting support payments from the support payor and providing the funds to the support recipient. They have a variety of tools available and can track payments made and/or owing. If there is an agreement and no court involved, specific measures can be needed to initiate or stop the collection process. The process might also need to be stopped if both parties decide to withdraw or if assistance is about to terminate.

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A software company called Divorcemate (frequently used by lawyers and judges) has made a basic child and spousal support calculator available for public use. The link is intended to provide a basic guide for information purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice.  Every situation is different and you should consult with a lawyer before making any agreement or decision that could have important long lasting consequences on you and your family.

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