One of the most important aspects of any divorce is what this step will mean for your financial future. As you know, the end of a marriage will signal significant changes, and it is in your interests to pursue a settlement that allows you to protect your stability over the long term. One way you may need to do this is by seeking a fair spousal support order.
If you believe you could have a rightful claim to spousal support, you would be wise to learn more about how alimony works in Arizona divorces. When you understand the factors that go into determining spousal support, it can help you pursue a final order that is sustainable and allows you stability in the future. If you are the lesser-earning spouse, you likely have a claim to this type of support.
How does it work?
The intent of spousal support is to offset the economic instability that a divorce can bring to the spouse who earns less than the other. If you stayed home with the children, worked part time or earned significantly less that your counterpart, you have the right to seek support that can help you during the post-divorce transitions you will have to make.
There are various factors that go into determining whether a person is eligible for alimony and how much he or she could receive. Some of the issues that may affect how much spousal support you can get include the following:
- Finances of both spouses
- Length of the marriage
- Physical and mental state of each spouse
- Standard of living enjoyed during the marriage
- How long the lesser-earning spouse would need to re-enter the workforce or find sufficiently paying income
If you cannot re-enter the workforce for some reason or your marriage lasted for decades, it is possible to secure permanent alimony. However, the court may determine temporary alimony is appropriate if you can work in the future or find a higher-paying job.
How can you get what you need?
Spousal support is often a complex subject between two spouses who are disputing over the terms of a divorce order. However, it may be possible to negotiate a fair and reasonable settlement that works for both spouses. In the event that an out-of-court settlement is not possible, you can petition the court for a fair amount of financial support.
If you are facing divorce, you may want to take steps to learn more about spousal support and how to fight for what you need for a strong and stable future.