Maintenance
In cases of separation and divorce, Swiss law distinguishes between child support and spousal maintenance. Child support is determined based on the child’s needs and the financial capacity of both parents, and it is due even in the absence of notable contact between parents and children. Spousal maintenance depends on whether and for how long one spouse must be financially supported after the divorce, particularly in cases of a long-term marriage or limited earning capacity. A request for provisional support may be filed already while the proceedings are ongoing. We calculate claims with a high degree of reliability, negotiate them, and consistently enforce them—also in cases with international implications.
Principle
Child support is intended to cover the child’s living, care, and educational expenses and is due even if parental responsibilities are divided in an uneven way between the parents. We calculate child support based on the child’s actual needs and the income and financial circumstances of both parents.
Caretaker support
In addition to the child’s basic needs, Swiss law also provides for caretaker support, which enables the custodial parent to devote themselves to caring for the child without suffering financial hardship. We assess the extent to which such a claim exists in each specific case.
Adjustment and duration
Child support is generally due until the child reaches the age of majority or completes an appropriate initial education, and may be adjusted in the event of a significant change in circumstances. In addition to the initial calculations, we also assist our clients with subsequent adjustment proceedings.
Requirements
Post-divorce spousal support may be considered if one spouse is unable to provide for their own reasonable support after the divorce—for example, due to the division of tasks during the marriage, old age, or health limitations. We determine whether and to what extent you or the adverse party have a claim.
Calculation and duration
The amount and duration of post-marital support depend on numerous factors, in particular the length of the marriage, the living conditions during the marriage, and the ability to regain financial independence. We develop a customized, reliable calculation for each client.
Lump-sum settlement instead of alimony by instalments
In certain cases, a one-time lump-sum settlement may be more appropriate than ongoing alimony payments—for example, to avoid a lasting financial connection after the divorce. A one-off payment has considerable tax consequences. We evaluate this option and negotiate it when it is in the best interest of our clients.
Alimony in international cases
If one of the parties lives abroad, this raises the additional question of which law applies to the calculation of maintenance and how a Swiss maintenance order can be enforced abroad, or the other way around. Through our network of partner law firms in more than 80 countries, we clarify the applicable rules and ensure that maintenance claims remain enforceable across borders.
There is no fixed rate. Child support is based on the child’s specific needs and the financial means of both parents. We calculate the amount owed on a case-by-case basis.
Yes. Child support is in particular due if custody arrangements are divided unequally.
That depends on the specific circumstances, particularly the length of the marriage and the possibility of regaining financial independence. We review each case individually.
Yes, through a motion for provisional measures. We file such motions to ensure financial stability during the proceedings.
We determine which law applies and, through our international network, ensure that child support can be enforced across borders.
In the event of a significant change in circumstances—such as a change in income or a new life situation—an adjustment may be possible. We can assist you with such modification proceedings.