Spousal upkeep, usually termed “alimony” in different jurisdictions, is set in Arizona via a multifaceted course of contemplating varied components outlined in Arizona Revised Statutes Title 25, Chapter 5. These components embody the size of the wedding, the monetary sources and incomes capability of every partner, their contributions to the wedding (together with homemaking and childcare), and their total monetary wants. A choose considers these parts to make sure a good and equitable end result, awarding several types of upkeep (corresponding to rehabilitative or everlasting) primarily based on the particular circumstances of the divorcing couple. For instance, a short-term marriage would possibly lead to rehabilitative help designed to assist a partner turn into self-sufficient, whereas a long-term marriage with important disparities in incomes potential might result in everlasting help.
The judicial discretion inherent on this course of goals to supply monetary stability throughout and after the transition out of marriage. This may be significantly crucial in instances the place one partner has primarily centered on home duties, probably sacrificing profession development. By contemplating the distinctive dynamics of every marriage, the Arizona authorized framework seeks to mitigate potential monetary hardship arising from divorce, selling a extra equitable division of sources and alternatives because the events set up impartial lives. Traditionally, spousal upkeep advanced from societal expectations relating to the monetary duties inside a wedding. Trendy interpretations give attention to equity and the power of every partner to keep up an affordable lifestyle post-divorce.
This exploration will delve additional into particular elements of spousal upkeep dedication in Arizona, together with an examination of the assorted varieties of upkeep, the function of authorized illustration, and potential modifications to present orders attributable to modified circumstances.
1. Marital Period
Marital length is a pivotal think about figuring out spousal upkeep in Arizona. The size of the wedding immediately influences the kind and length of any help awarded. Shorter marriages, sometimes outlined as these lasting lower than 5 years, are much less prone to lead to long-term or everlasting spousal upkeep. In such instances, rehabilitative help, designed to help a partner in regaining self-sufficiency, is extra frequent. As an illustration, a partner who left the workforce to boost youngsters throughout a brief marriage would possibly obtain short-term help to pursue schooling or job coaching. Conversely, longer marriages, significantly these exceeding ten or twenty years, usually contain higher interdependence and potential disparity in incomes energy. This will justify longer-term or everlasting spousal upkeep, significantly when one partner has considerably decrease incomes potential attributable to their function within the marriage. Take into account a 25-year marriage the place one partner centered on home duties whereas the opposite pursued a profitable profession. The courtroom could deem everlasting help acceptable to handle the ensuing monetary imbalance.
The rationale behind this correlation lies within the idea of equitable division and equity. Longer marriages usually contain higher intertwined funds, shared sacrifices, and potential financial disadvantages for one partner ensuing from the marital partnership. Shorter marriages, whereas involving related changes, typically current much less pronounced disparities and a higher expectation of impartial monetary stability. The length itself acts as a proxy for the diploma of interdependence and the potential affect of divorce on every partner’s monetary well-being. This method promotes equity and acknowledges the contributions of every partner throughout the marriage, no matter whether or not these contributions have been monetary in nature. It acknowledges that the roles adopted inside a wedding can considerably affect particular person profession trajectories and future incomes potential.
Understanding the importance of marital length in spousal upkeep calculations is essential for events considering divorce in Arizona. It supplies a framework for anticipating potential outcomes and negotiating equitable settlements. Whereas not the only figuring out issue, the size of the wedding serves as a considerable basis upon which different parts, corresponding to incomes capability and monetary sources, are evaluated. This ensures that the monetary penalties of divorce are addressed pretty, accounting for the distinctive circumstances and contributions inside every marital partnership.
2. Monetary Sources
Evaluation of economic sources is key to spousal upkeep determinations in Arizona. A complete understanding of every partner’s property, liabilities, and revenue streams is crucial for equitable decision-making. This evaluation kinds the premise for figuring out the necessity for spousal upkeep, its quantity, and length. Evaluating monetary sources supplies a transparent image of the monetary panorama post-divorce, enabling the courtroom to handle disparities and guarantee a good transition for each events.
-
Belongings
Belongings embody all types of property owned by every partner, together with actual property, autos, funding accounts, retirement funds, and enterprise pursuits. A radical valuation of those property is essential. For instance, a household house would possibly require appraisal, whereas complicated funding portfolios necessitate detailed evaluation. The division of property throughout the divorce course of immediately impacts the monetary standing of every partner and influences subsequent spousal upkeep choices. A partner awarded substantial property could have much less want for spousal upkeep, whereas a partner with restricted property would possibly require help to keep up an affordable lifestyle. The courtroom strives for an equitable distribution, recognizing contributions made by every partner throughout the marriage.
-
Liabilities
Liabilities, encompassing mortgages, loans, bank card money owed, and different monetary obligations, are equally vital issues. Excellent money owed affect obtainable sources and affect future monetary stability. For instance, a major mortgage or pupil mortgage debt can scale back disposable revenue and improve monetary pressure. The courtroom considers the allocation of liabilities when figuring out spousal upkeep, guaranteeing that neither get together is unduly burdened by debt post-divorce. This entails cautious consideration of the supply and objective of the debt and its affect on every partner’s potential to fulfill their monetary wants.
-
Revenue Streams
Past property and liabilities, assessing present and potential revenue streams is essential. This contains salaries, wages, funding revenue, rental revenue, and some other recurring monetary inflows. For instance, a partner with a steady, high-paying job would possibly require much less help than a partner with inconsistent employment historical past or decrease incomes potential. The courtroom considers the incomes capability of every partner, making an allowance for schooling, work expertise, and job market circumstances. This enables for a extra sensible evaluation of future monetary prospects and the necessity for ongoing spousal upkeep.
-
Dissipation of Belongings
Dissipation of property refers back to the wasteful spending or depletion of marital funds by one partner, usually in anticipation of divorce. This will embody extreme playing, extravagant purchases, or transferring property to 3rd events. Courts could contemplate such actions when figuring out monetary sources and may regulate the division of property or spousal upkeep awards accordingly. For instance, if one partner demonstrably depleted marital funds for private acquire shortly earlier than submitting for divorce, the courtroom would possibly compensate the opposite partner via a higher share of the remaining property or an elevated spousal upkeep award. This protects towards unfair monetary maneuvering and ensures a extra equitable end result regardless of probably irresponsible monetary conduct.
The interaction of those parts supplies a complete monetary overview of every partner, enabling the courtroom to make knowledgeable choices relating to spousal upkeep. By analyzing property, liabilities, revenue streams, and potential dissipation of property, the courtroom can decide the suitable degree and length of help, aiming to make sure monetary stability for each events post-divorce. The purpose is to realize a good and equitable end result that displays the distinctive circumstances of every marriage and the contributions made by every partner.
3. Incomes Capability
Incomes capability performs an important function in figuring out spousal upkeep in Arizona. Whereas precise present revenue is taken into account, the courtroom additionally examines the potential revenue a partner might earn primarily based on their schooling, expertise, expertise, and the general job market. This forward-looking method acknowledges {that a} partner’s present revenue won’t precisely replicate their potential to contribute financially. Evaluating incomes capability ensures that spousal upkeep awards are honest and equitable, contemplating each current circumstances and future potential.
-
Schooling and Abilities
A partner’s instructional background and purchased expertise considerably affect incomes capability. Superior levels, specialised coaching, and useful certifications can improve incomes potential. For instance, a partner with a medical diploma possesses a better incomes capability than somebody with a highschool diploma. The courtroom considers these components when figuring out whether or not spousal upkeep is important and, in that case, the suitable quantity and length. This method acknowledges that investments in schooling and ability improvement throughout the marriage can considerably affect future incomes potential.
-
Work Expertise and Job Historical past
Work historical past, together with earlier job titles, duties, and length of employment, affords perception right into a partner’s incomes capability. A constant file of employment in a particular area suggests higher incomes potential in comparison with sporadic or entry-level positions. As an illustration, a partner with a decade of expertise in software program engineering probably instructions a better wage than somebody getting into the sector. The courtroom considers this historical past to evaluate sensible incomes potential and the necessity for spousal upkeep. This acknowledges the cumulative impact of expertise on incomes capability.
-
Job Market Situations and Employability
Prevailing job market circumstances and employability components, corresponding to the supply of jobs in a partner’s area and the demand for his or her particular expertise, are related issues. A thriving job market with excessive demand for particular expertise can improve incomes potential. Conversely, a weak job market or restricted demand can hinder employment prospects and scale back incomes capability. The courtroom considers these exterior components to evaluate sensible incomes potential within the context of the present financial local weather. For instance, a partner in a high-demand area like expertise might need higher incomes capability than somebody in a declining trade. This acknowledges the affect of exterior components on particular person incomes potential.
-
Imputed Revenue
In conditions the place a partner is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, the courtroom can impute revenue primarily based on their incomes capability. This implies assigning an revenue degree primarily based on what the partner might moderately earn in the event that they have been actively looking for and securing acceptable employment. This safeguards towards makes an attempt to keep away from spousal upkeep obligations by deliberately limiting revenue. For instance, a partner with a legislation diploma who chooses to work part-time might need revenue imputed primarily based on their potential earnings as a full-time legal professional. This ensures that spousal upkeep choices are primarily based on a sensible evaluation of incomes capability, somewhat than manipulated employment circumstances.
These components, thought-about collectively, present a complete view of a partner’s incomes capability. This nuanced method ensures that spousal upkeep choices replicate not solely present revenue but additionally potential future earnings primarily based on schooling, expertise, expertise, and job market realities. By contemplating incomes capability alongside different components, Arizona courts purpose to ascertain honest and equitable spousal upkeep preparations that promote monetary stability for each events post-divorce.
4. Contributions to Marriage
Contributions to the wedding, each monetary and non-financial, represent a major think about figuring out spousal upkeep in Arizona. This precept acknowledges {that a} marriage is a partnership involving varied types of contribution, not solely financial. Analyzing these contributions supplies a extra holistic view of the marital dynamic, enabling courts to make equitable spousal upkeep choices that replicate the shared efforts and sacrifices inside the partnership.
-
Monetary Contributions
Direct monetary contributions are readily quantifiable and embody earnings, investments, and different financial inputs to the marital property. These contributions are simply documented via monetary data and supply a transparent image of every partner’s financial help throughout the marriage. For instance, a partner who persistently earned a better wage and contributed a bigger portion to family bills has made a considerable monetary contribution. This can be a simple calculation, however its significance lies in establishing a baseline for understanding the monetary dynamics inside the marriage. Within the context of spousal upkeep, higher monetary contributions would possibly reduce the necessity for help, whereas lesser contributions, significantly when coupled with different components, might strengthen the argument for spousal upkeep.
-
Homemaking and Childrearing
Non-financial contributions, significantly homemaking and childrearing, are equally useful, albeit much less simply quantifiable. These contributions contain managing the family, caring for kids, and offering important home help, usually enabling the opposite partner to pursue profession development. For instance, a partner who primarily centered on elevating youngsters and sustaining the house has made a major non-financial contribution, even with out producing direct revenue. This contribution is implicitly acknowledged in Arizona legislation, acknowledging that these efforts free the opposite partner to give attention to incomes potential, not directly benefiting the marital partnership. In spousal upkeep calculations, important contributions in homemaking and childrearing can justify help, significantly in long-term marriages the place one partner’s profession trajectory was impacted by these duties.
-
Supporting Partner’s Profession
Contributions in the direction of a partner’s profession development, corresponding to supporting their schooling, relocating for job alternatives, or managing family duties to permit for longer work hours, are additionally thought-about. These actions, although not at all times immediately monetary, show a dedication to the marital partnership and contribute to the general monetary success of the household. For instance, a partner who relocates to help their companion’s profession development or takes on higher family duties to allow longer work hours has made a major contribution. These sacrifices usually affect particular person profession paths and incomes potential, and are acknowledged in spousal upkeep issues. Supporting a partner’s profession can justify spousal upkeep, recognizing the oblique however important contributions to the marital partnership and the potential affect on particular person incomes capability.
-
Lack of Profession Alternatives
Lack of profession alternatives attributable to prioritizing the wedding, corresponding to foregoing instructional pursuits, declining promotions requiring relocation, or leaving the workforce to boost youngsters, is one other crucial side of contributions to the wedding. These sacrifices, although usually made willingly inside the context of the wedding, can considerably affect long-term incomes potential. As an illustration, a partner who left a promising profession to boost youngsters would possibly expertise a major discount in incomes capability upon re-entering the workforce years later. This misplaced incomes potential, a direct results of prioritizing household duties, is taken into account in spousal upkeep determinations. Recognizing this lack of alternative ensures that sacrifices made for the good thing about the wedding are acknowledged and probably compensated via spousal upkeep, selling equity and fairness.
The courtroom weighs these varied contributions, each monetary and non-financial, to know the dynamics of the marital partnership. This holistic method ensures that spousal upkeep choices replicate the shared efforts, sacrifices, and contributions made by every partner throughout the marriage. By contemplating all types of contribution, courts purpose to realize equitable outcomes that acknowledge the multifaceted nature of marriage and promote monetary stability for each events post-divorce. This nuanced analysis differentiates between merely dividing property and recognizing the inherent worth of non-monetary contributions inside a marital partnership.
5. Monetary Wants
Monetary wants play a pivotal function in figuring out spousal upkeep in Arizona. The courtroom analyzes every partner’s mandatory bills to keep up an affordable lifestyle established throughout the marriage. This entails inspecting varied expenditures, together with housing, meals, transportation, healthcare, and childcare prices. The purpose isn’t essentially to equalize the events’ monetary conditions however to make sure that the partner receiving upkeep can keep a comparable lifestyle, contemplating the monetary sources obtainable to each events. As an illustration, if one partner accustomed to a sure way of life throughout a long-term marriage lacks the rapid incomes capability to maintain that way of life independently, spousal upkeep could bridge the hole. Conversely, if each spouses possess related incomes potentials and property, the necessity for spousal upkeep is perhaps minimal, even with disparate existence. The courtroom’s focus stays on addressing demonstrated monetary wants relative to obtainable sources, guaranteeing neither get together faces undue hardship throughout the transition to impartial dwelling.
A number of components affect the evaluation of economic wants. The size of the wedding contributes considerably. Lengthy-term marriages usually contain higher intertwined funds and shared way of life expectations, resulting in a stronger justification for spousal upkeep to keep up established requirements of dwelling. Shorter marriages, nevertheless, typically contain much less established interdependence and a higher expectation of impartial monetary adjustment. The presence of kids and their related bills additionally affect monetary wants assessments. Baby help, whereas distinct from spousal upkeep, is taken into account alongside the general monetary image, guaranteeing the youngsters’s wants are met. Healthcare prices, particularly for spouses with pre-existing circumstances or restricted entry to reasonably priced healthcare, additionally contribute to monetary wants calculations. These bills, usually substantial, are essential issues in figuring out the suitable degree of spousal upkeep. The courtroom seeks a balanced method, addressing the affordable wants of each events whereas acknowledging the monetary realities of the state of affairs.
Understanding the function of economic wants in spousal upkeep calculations is essential. This side, mixed with different components like incomes capability, marital contributions, and the length of the wedding, permits courts to make knowledgeable, equitable choices. Addressing monetary wants promotes a smoother transition post-divorce, lowering potential monetary hardship and guaranteeing each events can keep an affordable lifestyle. The sensible significance lies in fostering monetary stability for each spouses as they set up impartial lives, reflecting the precept of equity underlying Arizona’s spousal upkeep framework. Challenges can come up in figuring out “affordable wants” as existence and expectations range significantly. Nevertheless, the main target stays on establishing a good and equitable end result, contemplating the totality of the circumstances and selling monetary stability for all events concerned, particularly when youngsters are concerned.
6. Sorts of Upkeep
The kind of spousal upkeep awarded in Arizona immediately impacts how calculations are carried out and utilized. Several types of upkeep serve distinct functions, reflecting the particular circumstances of the divorcing couple. Understanding these distinctions is essential for correct calculation and efficient utility of spousal upkeep provisions.
-
Momentary Spousal Upkeep
Momentary spousal upkeep, because the title suggests, supplies help throughout the divorce proceedings. Calculations for short-term upkeep usually give attention to sustaining the established order till the ultimate divorce decree. This entails contemplating rapid wants and present monetary preparations. As an illustration, if one partner dealt with family bills throughout the marriage, short-term upkeep would possibly cowl these prices till the ultimate property and help orders are in place. The calculation goals to bridge the monetary hole throughout the divorce course of, stopping undue hardship earlier than long-term preparations are finalized.
-
Rehabilitative Spousal Upkeep
Rehabilitative spousal upkeep goals to help a partner in turning into self-sufficient. Calculations contemplate the time and sources mandatory for the recipient to amass schooling, job coaching, or different expertise wanted to re-enter the workforce. For instance, a partner who left a profession to boost youngsters would possibly obtain rehabilitative help for an outlined interval, overlaying tuition and dwelling bills whereas pursuing a level. The calculation focuses on attaining monetary independence, somewhat than offering ongoing help indefinitely.
-
Everlasting Spousal Upkeep
Everlasting spousal upkeep, much less frequent than rehabilitative help, is awarded in conditions the place a partner is unlikely to realize self-sufficiency attributable to age, incapacity, or different important components. Calculations for everlasting upkeep are extra complicated, contemplating long-term monetary wants and the supporting partner’s potential to pay. This would possibly contain ongoing month-to-month funds, listed for inflation, to make sure the recipient maintains an affordable lifestyle. As an illustration, a partner who devoted a long time to homemaking and childrearing, forgoing profession improvement, would possibly obtain everlasting upkeep to handle the ensuing long-term monetary disparity. The calculation accounts for long-term wants and ensures ongoing monetary stability.
-
Compensatory Spousal Upkeep
Compensatory spousal upkeep is awarded to compensate a partner for contributions made throughout the marriage, significantly when these contributions considerably enhanced the opposite partner’s incomes potential. For instance, a partner who supported their companion via skilled college would possibly obtain compensatory upkeep as recognition of their funding within the different partner’s profession development. Calculations for this kind of upkeep contemplate the worth of the contribution and the ensuing improve in incomes capability, aiming to supply equitable compensation for the sacrifice made throughout the marriage.
Differentiating between a lot of these spousal upkeep is crucial for sensible utility. The chosen sort influences not solely the calculation methodology but additionally the length, modification potentialities, and total affect on post-divorce monetary stability. Complicated short-term upkeep with everlasting upkeep, for instance, can result in unrealistic expectations and authorized challenges. Precisely classifying the kind of upkeep primarily based on particular person circumstances is crucial for attaining honest and sustainable outcomes.
Deciding on the suitable sort of upkeep kinds the cornerstone of spousal upkeep calculations in Arizona. This resolution, primarily based on particular person circumstances and guided by authorized precedent, influences the calculation methodology, length, and total affect on long-term monetary stability. Understanding these distinctions ensures correct calculations and efficient utility of spousal upkeep orders. The kind of upkeep chosen displays the particular wants and circumstances of the divorcing couple, contributing to a extra equitable and sustainable post-divorce monetary panorama. It supplies a framework for addressing monetary disparity whereas selling self-sufficiency and recognizing the varied contributions inside a wedding.
Ceaselessly Requested Questions on Spousal Upkeep in Arizona
Addressing frequent inquiries relating to spousal upkeep calculations in Arizona supplies readability and facilitates knowledgeable decision-making throughout the divorce course of. The next questions and solutions provide useful insights into this complicated side of household legislation.
Query 1: How does marital misconduct have an effect on spousal upkeep awards?
Arizona is a “no-fault” divorce state. Marital misconduct typically doesn’t affect spousal upkeep choices. The main target stays on monetary wants, incomes capability, and contributions to the wedding, somewhat than assigning blame for the dissolution of the wedding.
Query 2: Can spousal upkeep orders be modified after the divorce is finalized?
Modifications are attainable below sure circumstances. Important modifications in monetary circumstances, corresponding to job loss or incapacity, can justify modification. Requests for modification require formal authorized proceedings and judicial approval, demonstrating a considerable change in circumstances warranting adjustment.
Query 3: What function does authorized illustration play in spousal upkeep determinations?
Authorized counsel performs a significant function. Attorneys present knowledgeable steerage via the complicated authorized processes concerned in spousal upkeep calculations and negotiations. They advocate for his or her consumer’s finest pursuits, guaranteeing honest consideration of all related components and defending authorized rights.
Query 4: How is spousal upkeep enforced if the paying partner fails to adjust to the courtroom order?
Enforcement mechanisms exist to handle non-compliance. These can embody wage garnishment, liens on property, and contempt of courtroom proceedings. Looking for authorized counsel is essential for efficient enforcement of spousal upkeep orders.
Query 5: Is spousal upkeep taxable?
Tax implications of spousal upkeep modified considerably attributable to federal tax legislation revisions. Spousal upkeep funds are typically not deductible for the payer or thought-about taxable revenue for the recipient for divorce or separation agreements executed after 2018. Consulting a tax advisor is crucial for understanding particular tax implications.
Query 6: How does cohabitation have an effect on spousal upkeep obligations?
Cohabitation with a brand new companion can affect spousal upkeep. Cohabitation could also be thought-about a change in monetary circumstances, probably justifying modification or termination of spousal upkeep, particularly if the brand new dwelling association supplies monetary help. Authorized steerage is crucial to navigate the complexities of cohabitation’s affect on spousal upkeep.
Understanding these frequent inquiries supplies a stable basis for navigating the complexities of spousal upkeep in Arizona. Consulting with skilled authorized counsel ensures customized steerage tailor-made to particular person circumstances, defending authorized rights, and selling knowledgeable decision-making all through the divorce course of. Looking for authorized recommendation affords readability and path for navigating the intricacies of spousal upkeep calculations and guaranteeing a good and equitable end result.
This concludes the dialogue of often requested questions. The next part supplies a case research illustrating a sensible utility of spousal upkeep calculations in Arizona.
Suggestions for Navigating Spousal Upkeep in Arizona
Navigating spousal upkeep in Arizona requires cautious consideration of authorized and monetary complexities. The following pointers provide sensible steerage for people concerned in divorce proceedings the place spousal upkeep is an element.
Tip 1: Preserve meticulous monetary data. Correct documentation of revenue, bills, property, and liabilities is essential for supporting spousal upkeep calculations. Organized data facilitate clear and environment friendly proceedings.
Tip 2: Search authorized counsel early within the divorce course of. Skilled household legislation attorneys present invaluable steerage, defend authorized rights, and advocate for shoppers’ finest pursuits all through spousal upkeep negotiations and proceedings.
Tip 3: Perceive the several types of spousal upkeep obtainable in Arizona. Distinguishing between short-term, rehabilitative, everlasting, and compensatory upkeep is essential for setting sensible expectations and pursuing acceptable authorized methods.
Tip 4: Take into account the tax implications of spousal upkeep. Tax legal guidelines governing spousal upkeep will be complicated. Consulting with a tax advisor helps guarantee compliance and minimizes potential monetary liabilities.
Tip 5: Be ready to barter and compromise. Reaching a mutually agreeable spousal upkeep association usually requires flexibility and a willingness to compromise. Negotiation can result in extra environment friendly and fewer adversarial outcomes.
Tip 6: Doc any important modifications in monetary circumstances. Adjustments in revenue, employment standing, or well being can affect spousal upkeep obligations. Sustaining thorough data of those modifications is significant for potential modifications to present orders.
Tip 7: Discover various dispute decision strategies. Mediation and collaborative divorce can present much less adversarial and more cost effective options to conventional litigation for resolving spousal upkeep disputes.
Tip 8: Comply diligently with courtroom orders. Failure to adjust to spousal upkeep orders can result in authorized penalties, together with wage garnishment and contempt of courtroom proceedings. Constant compliance ensures adherence to authorized obligations and avoids potential penalties.
By heeding the following pointers, people navigating spousal upkeep in Arizona can method the method with higher readability, preparedness, and a stronger understanding of their authorized rights and duties. This proactive method fosters extra knowledgeable decision-making and facilitates smoother transitions throughout and after divorce proceedings.
The next part concludes this exploration of spousal upkeep in Arizona, summarizing key takeaways and providing remaining suggestions for people going through these complicated points.
Conclusion
Figuring out spousal upkeep in Arizona entails a nuanced analysis of varied components. Marital length, monetary sources, incomes capacities, contributions to the wedding, and monetary wants are rigorously thought-about. Distinct varieties of upkeep, together with short-term, rehabilitative, everlasting, and compensatory, deal with particular circumstances and goals. Calculations purpose to realize equitable outcomes, recognizing the varied contributions inside a wedding and selling monetary stability for each events post-divorce. Authorized counsel performs an important function in navigating these complexities, guaranteeing honest illustration and safety of authorized rights.
Spousal upkeep calculations are usually not merely mathematical workouts; they signify a crucial side of guaranteeing equity and monetary stability throughout a major life transition. Understanding the authorized framework and looking for knowledgeable steerage empowers people to navigate this course of successfully, selling equitable outcomes and long-term monetary well-being. A radical understanding of the components influencing these calculations is essential for all events concerned in divorce proceedings in Arizona.