How to apply for spousal maintenance in South Africa

How to apply for spousal maintenance in South Africa?

To apply for spousal maintenance in South Africa, you need to file a claim with the court, typically as part of divorce proceedings. This claim can also be filed separately if the need arises after the divorce is finalized.

Understanding Spousal Maintenance

Spousal maintenance is financial support that one spouse may be required to pay to the other during or after a divorce. It is intended to provide financial relief to a spouse who might not be able to support themselves adequately immediately following a divorce.

How to Apply

1. Filing a Claim: You start by filing a claim for maintenance as part of the divorce proceedings. This is done by including a request for maintenance in the divorce papers submitted to the court.
2. Financial Disclosure: Both parties will need to provide detailed financial disclosures. This includes income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. This information helps the court determine the financial needs and capabilities of each spouse.
3. Court Proceedings: If the divorce is contested, the issue of spousal maintenance may be settled in court. During these proceedings, each party can present evidence and arguments regarding their need for financial support and their ability to pay.
4. Maintenance Order: If the court decides that spousal maintenance is warranted, it will issue a maintenance order. This order will specify the amount to be paid and the duration of the payments.

Important Considerations

• Legal Advice: It is advisable to seek legal advice when applying for spousal maintenance. A lawyer can help prepare your claim, represent you in court, and ensure that all legal procedures are correctly followed.
• Modification of Orders: Maintenance orders are not necessarily permanent. They can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in the financial situation of either party.
• Enforcement: If the spouse responsible for paying maintenance fails to comply with the order, legal steps can be taken to enforce the order, including garnishing wages or taking other legal action.

Applying for spousal maintenance involves careful preparation and understanding of legal procedures. It is crucial to provide thorough and accurate financial information to support your claim and to consider all legal options and implications.

Get A Lawyer to Help you with Maintenance Matters

Complete this form so that Qualified Lawyers who deal with Child Maintenance can assist you as soon as possible.

Name

First

Last

Your Physical Address*

Quick description about your request *

Email address*

Cell Number*

NB: Please ensure your Cell Number is Correct.

Alternative Number Lawyers can contact you on?*

What time of the day would you like to be contacted?*

Please selectMorning: 9:00 - 12:00 amLunch Time: 13:00 - 14:00 pmLate Afternoon: 15:00 - 17:00 pm

Please type the characters*

This helps us prevent spam, thank you.

Send

This field should be left blank