During your divorce, you’ll probably come up with several “what-if” scenarios that are worth discussing with your Toronto divorce lawyer; most people do. What if you sold the house and moved into an apartment? What if you packed up the kids and moved across the country? What if you quit your job?
Running through potential situations and their outcomes is a natural part of the problem-solving process, and it can help you make the best decisions for your future.
However, you shouldn’t act on any of your “what-ifs” without understanding the potential outcomes. Since every divorce case is unique, only your Toronto divorce lawyer can provide you with legal advice that matches your situation; don’t make your decisions based on what worked for someone else, because no two divorce cases are identical.
Why People Might Quit a Job During Divorce
Some people believe that quitting a job will excuse them from their obligations related to child support or spousal support; others believe quitting a job will encourage the courts to award them higher amounts of child or spousal support.
Naturally, there are other reasons for job changes. If you’re accepting a new job that’s closer to home or offers better benefits, or if you’re leaving an old job because your soon-to-be ex owns the company, you may be making the right choice. However, you’ll still need to talk to your Toronto divorce lawyer to be sure you’re headed in the right direction.
What Your Toronto Divorce Lawyer Might Advise
Your Toronto divorce lawyer is always looking out for your best interests. He or she will be able to evaluate your situation based on the facts and probable outcomes. Together, you’ll determine the best course of action for you and your family.
Our laws are designed to promote fair compensation to ex-spouses and parents. They aren’t designed to allow someone to exact financial revenge on an ex, nor are they designed to allow a person to live the high life by impoverishing an ex. Your Toronto divorce lawyer will work hard on your behalf to get you the support you’re entitled to receive or to ensure you pay a reasonable, fair amount to support your children or former spouse according to the law.
Calculating Spousal Support and Child Support
The courts use several factors to determine spousal support payments, including:
- Both spouses’ income levels
- The ability of each spouse to meet their own financial needs
- The age and health of the parties
- The length of cohabitation (living together)
- The earning capacity of the spouse asking for support
You can use our child support calculator to determine the approximate amount of child support you may be entitled to receive or how much you may have to pay.
Quitting Your Job During Divorce
Your Toronto divorce lawyer knows your case and how the laws relate to it. Don’t make any decisions without discussing your options with your lawyer first. He or she will let you know if changing your employment status will help or hurt your case.
