If you have uncertainties or disputes about spousal maintenance in an Arizona divorce, contact a knowledgeable family law attorney at Lasiter & Jackson in Phoenix. Our law firm can help you find ways to protect your interests on either side of a spousal maintenance (alimony) problem while working towards a fast and cost-effective solution.

Spousal maintenance (alimony) is never automatic in an Arizona divorce. Your right to collect spousal maintenance or your obligation to pay it will depend on evidence of both the financially weaker spouse’s need and the other spouse’s ability to pay.

Is Alimony Available to the Requesting Spouse?

In Arizona, the potential payee of a spousal maintenance (alimony) award must first prove that he or she is entitled to it. The court will look at the requesting spouse’s income regardless of what the other spouse makes. If the requesting spouse can earn enough income to be self-sufficient, the court will probably not grant spousal maintenance.

How Much Alimony Is Appropriate and for How Long?

Even when one spouse establishes a right to spousal maintenance (alimony), the amount and duration of a maintenance award is generally subject to sharp dispute. The court will consider factors such as age, education, employment history and the length of the marriage to determine how much spousal maintenance (alimony) should be awarded and for how long.

Our Divorce Attorneys Have a Firm Understanding of Your Rights

At Lasiter & Jackson, our divorce lawyers are committed to providing personalized client service. This means that you will have a solid understanding of your rights and responsibilities, and we will have a firm grasp of your objectives and concerns. Our skill in negotiating spousal maintenance (alimony) terms can help you avoid expensive court battles while protecting both your immediate and your long-term financial interests.

When litigation becomes necessary, we aggressively advocate your position in court. Because our lawyers concentrate on Arizona family law, we do not need to spend a lot of time figuring out the legal strengths and weaknesses of your case. We focus instead on the facts unique to your situation in order to seek the best possible resolution to your case.

Modification of Spousal Maintenance

There are occasions when the amount or duration of a spousal maintenance order becomes unreasonable over time. For example, an ex-spouse may remarry and no longer need support. Our spousal maintenance lawyers can help you bring a request to modify alimony payments when those circumstances arise.

To learn how you can benefit from our experience with the negotiation and litigation of spousal maintenance issues under Arizona alimony guidelines, contact Lasiter & Jackson in Phoenix.