Over the last decade, the number of fathers leaving the labor force to be full-time parents has increased dramatically.
Regardless of which parent takes responsibility for managing the home and children during the marriage, Arizona family law is gender-neutral when it comes to divorce and spousal support.
Preparing for divorce
If you are a stay-at-home dad planning for a separation and divorce, it is important to fully analyze your financial situation. Be sure to collect the following records before your divorce negotiations begin:
- Income and expenses
- Assets and investment accounts
- Personal and marital debts
- Bank statements
- Tax documents
- Titles and registration papers
You want to put yourself in the best position to receive a fair and equitable settlement when the court determines asset division, alimony and child support.
Determining spousal maintenance entitlements
In an Arizona divorce, courts calculate alimony, or spousal maintenance, based on the income and earning potential of each party. As a househusband, you may qualify for support if you lack resources or appropriate employment to cover living expenses at the time of dissolution. Additionally, you may need assistance if you have been out of work for a long duration of time or the labor market is slow at the time you are searching for employment.
However, spousal maintenance is not a tool for manipulation or punishment for bad behavior. Judges cannot force your ex to pay you simply because he or she was unfaithful during the marriage.
No matter your family structure and operations, you deserve fair treatment during your divorce proceedings and as you attempt to move on with your life.