I'm getting a divorce, Will the Court order that I pay maintenance for my spouse?
Divorce is a challenging and emotionally charged process, often involving complex legal issues that require careful consideration. Among these issues is the determination of spousal maintenance, which plays a crucial role in ensuring that both parties can maintain a reasonable standard of living after the marriage has ended. Section 78 of the Legal Rights Act (LRA) provides the framework for assessing spousal maintenance in Malaysia, emphasizing the means and needs of the parties and the degree of responsibility for the marriage breakdown. Understanding Section 78 of the LRA Section 78 of the LRA is a pivotal piece of legislation that guides the court in determining the amount of maintenance to be paid by one spouse to the other. While many might assume that past financial support during the marriage is the sole basis for determining maintenance, this is not the case. Instead, the court takes a more comprehensive approach, considering both parties' means and needs. Means and Needs