In Arizona divorce proceedings, spousal maintenance refers to court-ordered financial support paid by one spouse to the other following the dissolution of a marriage. This support is not automatic and is awarded based on specific statutory factors, such as the recipient’s ability to meet their reasonable needs, the paying spouse’s ability to pay, the length of the marriage, and the contributions each spouse made to the marital estate. For example, if one spouse sacrificed career opportunities to support the other’s career or manage the household, this could be a factor in awarding support.
The provision of financial support after a divorce aims to address economic imbalances that may arise from the marital relationship. Historically, it served to support women who were primarily homemakers. Today, it recognizes the diverse roles individuals play within a marriage and seeks to provide a fair outcome for either spouse disadvantaged by the divorce. This ensures a more equitable transition, allowing the recipient spouse time to become self-sufficient through education, training, or employment.