Spousal support is not automatic in Ontario. A spouse may be entitled to support wherethere is financial need, economic hardship from the separation, compensation forsacrifices made during the relationship, or a legal agreement requiring support. Courtsconsider factors such as the length of the relationship, income difference, roles duringthe marriage, childcare responsibilities, age, health, and ability to become self-sufficient.The Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines are often used to help determine theamount and duration of support, although they are advisory rather than mandatory.