Financial Relief During Divorce: Don't Wait for the Final Decree.
Your bills won't wait for a trial. Learn how to secure 'Interim Support' and 'Preservation Orders' immediately after separation.
Legal Review: This guide to Interim Motions was reviewed by Deepa Tailor, Senior Family Lawyer, to ensure compliance with the Ontario Family Law Rules regarding temporary relief (2026).
What is Interim Financial Relief?
Divorces can take years to finalize. 'Interim Relief' refers to temporary Court Orders made during the process to maintain the financial status quo. A judge can order your ex-spouse to pay Child Support, Spousal Support, or mortgage payments immediately, ensuring you and your children are not left destitute while waiting for a trial.
Types of Interim Financial Orders
Interim Support
Immediate monthly payments for Child Support (Table Amount) and Spousal Support based on the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAG).
Exclusive Possession
An order granting you the right to stay in the Matrimonial Home while the other spouse must leave, regardless of whose name is on the title.
Preservation Orders
An order freezing bank accounts or assets to prevent your spouse from spending, hiding, or depleting the family savings before trial.
Interim Disbursements
An order forcing the higher-earning spouse to pay your legal fees or pay for property valuators so you can afford to continue the case.
How to Get Money Now: The Motion Process
The Case Conference
In most non-emergency cases, you must attend a Case Conference before a judge will hear a motion for money.
The Notice of Motion
We file a formal document asking the court for specific temporary orders (e.g., '$2,000/month for support').
The Affidavit
You must swear a sworn statement with evidence (bank statements, bills, tax returns) proving your financial need and the other party's ability to pay.
The Hearing
Arguments are made before a judge (often based on documents alone). The judge makes a 'Temporary Order' that lasts until the final trial or settlement.
Temporary vs. Permanent
Interim Orders (Temporary)
Based on incomplete evidence. Designed to be a 'rough justice' fix to keep the lights on. Can be changed later if new facts emerge.
Final Orders (Permanent)
Made after a full trial or settlement. Based on complete financial disclosure and cross-examination. Designed to last indefinitely.
Common Questions About Interim Relief
For urgent situations, 2-4 weeks. For standard motions, 3-6 months depending on court backlogs. Emergency 'Ex Parte' motions can happen in 24 hours if there is immediate risk.
More Financial Resources
Deepa Tailor
Senior Family Lawyer
Deepa Tailor is the founder of Tailor Law. She specializes in high-stakes financial motions, securing interim relief and preservation orders for clients across the GTA.
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