As a stay-at-home spouse, you face unique concerns when ending your marriage. One of your main worries may be whether you are able to be financially stable after the divorce. You may have confusion about how to receive spousal maintenance.
Spousal maintenance, also known as alimony, is common for nonworking spouses to get. Sometimes, spousal support is short-term, while in other cases it can last for years. Here are some things you can do to improve your chances of receiving financial support from your ex.
Financial disparity
You want to provide the court with a full picture of your finances. One important factor is your expenses, such as rent or mortgage, personal care and groceries. You also want to gather evidence of how much your spouse makes. Demonstrate how much your spouse earns in comparison to you and how you need help to get back on your feet.
Age and health
The family court judge will consider your overall health when figuring out if alimony payments are appropriate. Generally, you are likely to get more spousal support if you have a medical condition or are older. Your age and health may impact your ability to find work.
Poor earning capacity
Staying at home for years can hinder your chances of getting a sustainable job to support yourself. Even if it is possible for you to attain this goal, you may need to go to school or receive training first. You may need support payments for a limited period of time while you figure out how to re-enter the workforce.
Length of your marriage
Longer marriages tend to end with more spousal maintenance. This is because your financial situation and lifestyle have longer precedence. A marriage of only a few years may not warrant much alimony if any.
It is vital to know that Arizona law does not account for marital misconduct or affairs in alimony decisions.