Spousal support, also referred to as maintenance, in Washington State involves payments from one spouse to the other following a divorce or legal separation. This financial assistance aims to address economic imbalances that may arise from the dissolution of a marriage, considering factors like the length of the marriage, the standard of living established during the marriage, and the earning potential of each spouse. An example would be a long-term marriage where one spouse sacrificed career opportunities to support the family, potentially entitling them to spousal maintenance.
The provision of financial support serves several crucial purposes. It can assist a less financially secure spouse in becoming self-sufficient, allowing them time to gain education or employment skills. It can also compensate a spouse for contributions made during the marriage, such as homemaking or childcare, that may have indirectly hindered their career advancement. Historically, support awards were often based on fault in the dissolution, but modern statutes prioritize need and ability to pay, focusing on achieving a just and equitable outcome.
