For child maintenance, there are fixed ways in which the amounts are calculated. The Child Maintenance Service can work out how much you should receive and can even collect the payments on your behalf. You can also use the Child Maintenance Service to calculate what the payments should be, and you and your spouse can then agree a child maintenance schedule without involving the courts.
In terms of alimony, or spousal maintenance, there is no fixed formula for calculating payments and there are a number of ways in which it can be finalised.
It is best if you can agree such payments between yourselves and without the need to go to court — any decision can then be written into your divorce agreement. Alternatively, you can use mediation to try and resolve any particular issues; this will be faster and less costly than taking matters to court.
If these options fail, you can apply through the courts for a spousal maintenance order. The courts will look at the existing salaries and earning potential of you and your spouse, and balance these against your needs and commitments. If an order is granted, it could be as a lump sum or the payment of maintenance for a fixed time period.