Tips from Chandler family law attorney Archives

How Arizona Courts Determine Child Custody in Arizona

When a marriage ends, one of the most profound and emotionally difficult concerns is understanding how your time with your children may change and how your role in their everyday lives will evolve. Few issues in a divorce carry more weight than child custody, as the outcome directly affects not only your life but also your child’s stability, security, and long-term well-being.

At Shaffer Family Law, we help parents in Arizona and throughout Maricopa County navigate these critical moments, guiding them through the process, protecting their rights, and keeping the focus on the child’s well-being. Courts generally favor arrangements that allow both parents to remain actively involved, unless there are concerns about safety or stability. Decisions about custody are never about rewarding one parent or punishing the other, even if one was at fault. The ultimate goal is always to ensure that every decision supports the child’s best interests.

If you’re facing a custody dispute, understanding how Arizona courts evaluate these cases can help you prepare effectively and make informed decisions that prioritize your child’s future.

Key Factors Arizona Courts Consider in Child Custody Disputes

Arizona law identifies specific factors that judges consider when deciding legal decision-making and parenting time. No single factor determines the outcome; instead, the court looks at the overall situation. Key considerations include:

The child’s relationship with each parent
The child’s relationships with others who may influence their well-being, including siblings and grandparents
Each parent’s ability to provide a stable, nurturing environment
The child’s adjustment to home, school, and community
The mental and physical health of all parties
Which parent is more likely to support frequent and meaningful contact with the other parent
Any history of domestic violence or child abuse
The child’s wishes, if the child is mature enough

Experienced Arizona Child Custody Lawyers at Shaffer Family Law

To avoid any confusion, it’s important to note that Arizona no longer uses the term “custody”. Instead, the law addresses legal decision-making and parenting time to define each parent’s rights and responsibilities, including where the child will live and how the child’s daily care will be managed. These arrangements can be shared between both parents or granted to one parent. Whenever possible, parents are encouraged to reach their own agreements, with the court stepping in only if they cannot resolve the matter.

No matter what kind of custody arrangement you’re seeking after a divorce, avoid feeling overwhelmed and work toward the best possible outcome by consulting an attorney from Shaffer Family Law. Whether your case can be resolved amicably or requires going to trial, we can draft parenting plans, negotiate on your behalf, and present testimony and evidence that can significantly influence the court’s decision. Our dedicated legal team has years of experience helping parents successfully navigate and resolve matters that directly affect their children’s lives.

Contact us today at (480) 470-3030 or request your consultation online, and let’s work together to secure the best future for your child.

Debt Division in Arizona

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Over the years, you and your spouse built a life together, investing in a home, cars, bank accounts, and other assets to plan for the future. Sadly, as time went on, the marriage began to fall apart, no longer providing the life you both had envisioned. While assets often take center stage in a divorce, the debt accumulated along the way is often overlooked. Unlike the marriage itself, debt doesn’t simply disappear when the divorce is finalized.

In Arizona, a community property state, debts incurred during the marriage or for the benefit of a community asset are considered shared, regardless of whose name is on the account. Even if only one spouse signed the loan or credit account, both spouses may be legally responsible for repayment. Courts aim for a fair and equitable distribution of debt, which does not always mean an exact 50/50 split.

At Shaffer Family Law, we understand that debt isn’t an easy topic to discuss, but it’s essential not to overlook it. Without careful planning and strong advocacy, you could be left carrying financial obligations you never intended to take on.

Understanding Community Debt vs. Separate Debt in Arizona Divorces

Arizona law distinguishes between community debt and separate debt:

Community Debt: Debts incurred during the marriage for family or household purposes are generally considered shared and are typically divided between spouses. Examples include mortgages on the family home, car loans, credit card balances accumulated during the marriage, business loans, and even unpaid utility or household bills.
Separate Debt: Debts incurred by one partner before the marriage or after separation are typically considered separate and remain the responsibility of the party who incurred them. This can include student loans, personal loans, credit cards, or other obligations that were not taken on for the benefit of the household or shared assets.

Although an equal split is often the starting point, debt can be allocated to reflect each spouse’s unique financial situation. Courts consider factors such as income and earning potential, who benefited from the debt, and any agreements between the spouses, ensuring that responsibility for each obligation is divided fairly.

In some cases, spouses may negotiate an arrangement where each is accountable only for debts in their own name. If one spouse holds a larger share of community debt, the court may award them a proportionate share of community assets to ensure a fair division.

Get Trusted Legal Help with Marital Debt Division in Arizona at Shaffer Family Law

Dividing debt can be complicated, especially when multiple loans, joint credit cards, or disputes arise over who is legally liable to repay them. Even with a court order, creditors can still pursue both spouses if joint debts remain unpaid. To protect yourself, it’s wise to refinance or close joint accounts, maintain detailed records of your debts, and consider a legal agreement to define repayment responsibilities clearly.

Divorce is challenging enough; do not let debt make it even more stressful. At Shaffer Family Law, we bring extensive experience helping clients in Maricopa County and surrounding areas navigate the complex process of property and debt division. From identifying community and separate debts to ensuring a fair assignment of assets and liabilities, and advocating for you in court when necessary, our team provides the expert guidance you need to safeguard your interests and secure your financial future after divorce. Call (480) 470-3030 or request your consultation online now to begin building the next chapter of your life.

Marital vs Separate Property in Arizona

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One of the toughest challenges in a divorce is untangling the life you built with your soon-to-be-ex-spouse. Years of shared memories, experiences, assets, and financial obligations are intertwined over time. While the moments you built together can’t be divided, the family home, car, and investments can, which naturally raises questions and concerns about how they will be handled throughout the process.

At Shaffer Family Law, we’ve seen firsthand how surprised clients are when they come in for consultations, assuming that everything in a marriage is automatically shared. This misconception is common because not all assets are divided in a divorce, and many people struggle to understand the differences between marital (community) property and separate property. It’s usually only when they sit down and itemize the estate subject to division that the full reality becomes clear, sometimes uncovering details that weren’t apparent during the relationship itself.

Below, we outline how Arizona treats property and the key factors that can influence its division, helping you make informed decisions and protect your financial future.

The Distinction Between Marital and Separate Property

Marital Property: In Arizona, property acquired during a marriage is generally considered community property, meaning it is owned by both spouses and subject to equitable division in the event of a divorce. This can include assets such as the family home, cars, retirement accounts, and income earned by either spouse during the marriage.
Separate Property: On the other hand, property that a spouse owned before the marriage, as well as those that were received as gifts or inheritances during the marriage, is generally classified as separate property. These are not divided in a divorce and remain with the original owner.

A prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can override these guidelines, allowing couples to clearly define in advance how specific property and assets will be divided in the event of a divorce.

Arizona law also recognizes quasi-community property, meaning that property a spouse earns or acquires while living in another state can be treated as marital property if it would have been considered community property if obtained in Arizona.

Separate property, however, can still become part of the marital estate if it is commingled with community property. For example, depositing an inheritance into a joint account or using premarital savings to pay for marital expenses can blur the lines.

Protect Your Assets During an Arizona Divorce with Shaffer Family Law

Navigating Arizona’s community property laws can feel overwhelming, especially while you are also coping with the emotional strain of ending your marriage. The last thing you want is to unintentionally give up an asset you value or accept a financial outcome that does not reflect your contributions.

With Shaffer Family Law, on your side, you don’t have to navigate this process on your own. We take on the legal and financial complexities of property division so you can focus on yourself, your family, and moving forward. Whether negotiations take place across the table or in the courtroom, we advocate for outcomes that are fair and aligned with your best interests. And because divorce often involves more than just assets, our family law attorneys can also guide you through related matters such as alimony, child custody, and support, providing comprehensive support every step of the way.

Call (480) 470-3030 or request your consultation online today and take control of your financial future.

January is Divorce Month in Arizona

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New Year, New Me! You’ve probably heard this phrase a lot once January rolls around—but for some couples, the “fresh start” isn’t about resolutions or goals. After the holiday season, family law offices across the country notice a significant increase in divorce filings, consultations and inquiries. Often referred to as “Divorce Month,” this time of year prompts many to reflect on their relationships and take steps toward meaningful change.

Several factors contribute to the rise in couples seeking divorce during this time of year, including the emotional stress of the holidays, financial pressures, and a desire for renewal. Whatever the reason, ending a marriage is a life-changing decision and consulting with an experienced attorney at Shaffer Family Law can help you understand your options and make informed choices for your future.

Below, we’ll take a closer look at this phenomenon and highlight the signs that can help you be prepared for what lies ahead, whether you’re planning to initiate the divorce or not.

Why January Is Known as Divorce Month

New Year, New Beginnings: The start of a new year is a natural time to reassess your life. For those in unhappy marriages, it can be the moment they recognize what isn’t working and take steps toward reclaiming happiness and personal fulfillment.
Holidays Highlight Tensions: The holiday season can test even the strongest partnership. However, for couples already facing challenges, financial strain, family expectations, and extended time together can intensify underlying issues, sometimes pushing the relationship to a breaking point.
The Last Straw: Many couples try to get through the holidays, hoping that shared joy and quality time will strengthen their bond. For some, however, the season only makes it clear that their marriage can’t be saved.
Timing: Couples often delay addressing marital problems to maintain family routines during school vacations or holiday celebrations, prioritizing their children and loved ones.
Financial Considerations: Initiating the divorce process at the beginning of the year allows couples to plan ahead for key financial matters, including year-end bonuses, tax implications, budgeting, legal costs, and settlements.

Arizona Divorce Attorney at Shaffer Family Law

If you’re considering divorce as January approaches, you’re far from alone. “Divorce Month” isn’t just a trend; it reflects individuals taking control of their lives and choosing healthier, more stable futures. While there may never be a “perfect” time to begin the process, acting proactively and understanding your legal rights is essential to protecting what matters most and moving forward with confidence.

At Shaffer Family Law, we proudly serve individuals and families throughout Maricopa County and the surrounding areas, providing clear guidance at every stage of the divorce process—from your initial consultation to court proceedings, child custody matters, and beyond. Whether you’re ready to move forward or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (480) 470-3030 or request an appointment online. Take control of the year ahead with trusted legal support by your side.

Sources:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/patriciafersch/2025/12/23/is-january-really-divorce-month/
https://www.cosmopolitan.com/relationships/a69919787/divorce-month/

Hidden Assets in Arizona Divorce

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Financial matters are often at the heart of many divorces and can become the most fiercely contested issues. As tensions rise, disputes over property, income, and other assets can turn an already challenging process into a bitter battle.

Arizona is a community property state, which means most assets acquired during the marriage—including income, real estate, retirement accounts, and business interests—are divided equally, regardless of whose name is on the account. Unfortunately, some spouses may attempt to conceal portions of the marital estate to avoid equitable distribution.

While hiding assets is illegal and can carry serious financial and legal consequences, it remains a common tactic in divorces. If you suspect your spouse is withholding property, the first step is to consult an attorney. At Shaffer Family Law, we help you uncover the full scope of your assets, identify any hidden property, and take decisive action to protect your financial interests throughout the divorce process.

Commonly Hidden Assets to Watch For in an Arizona Divorce

Ending a marriage is never easy, but understanding the dynamics of a high-conflict divorce can help you set realistic expectations, make informed decisions, and reduce stress for both you and your family.

Undisclosed Bank Accounts: Additional bank accounts—sometimes offshore or in another person’s name—may be opened to keep marital funds undisclosed.
Hidden Cash: Cash is one of the hardest forms of capital to detect because it leaves little to no paper trail. It may be withdrawn gradually and stored in safes, safe deposit boxes, or with trusted individuals.
Underreported Income: A spouse may delay bonuses, commissions, or contract payments until after the divorce is finalized, or fail to disclose side income from freelance work or cash-based businesses.
Undervalued Businesses: Business owners may manipulate financial records, delay contracts, or inflate expenses to make their business appear less profitable than it truly is.
Valuable Personal Property: Items such as jewelry, collectibles, artwork, or luxury goods may be hidden, undervalued, or “gifted” to avoid inclusion in property division.
Transfers to Third Parties: Money or valuables may be temporarily transferred to friends or relatives, often presented as debt repayment or safekeeping, with the intention of reclaiming them later.
Cryptocurrency and Digital Assets: Digital currencies, online investment accounts, and payment platforms are increasingly used to conceal wealth due to their perceived anonymity and the challenges associated with tracking them.
Retirement Accounts and Pensions: Although more difficult to hide, some retirement benefits—such as 401(k)s, IRAs, pensions, or other plans—may be partially disclosed or omitted, even though they are considered community property.

Uncover Hidden Assets in Your Arizona Divorce with Shaffer Family Law

These are just a few of the methods commonly used to hide assets during a divorce. While such tactics may seem clever, legal professionals and forensic accountants have encountered most of these strategies countless times.

Hiding assets isn’t just unfair—it’s illegal. Under Arizona law, both parties are required to disclose all assets fully, and the courts treat these disclosures with the utmost seriousness during divorce proceedings. Attempting to conceal or misrepresent them can lead to serious consequences, hefty fines, being required to cover the other spouse’s attorney fees, a reduced share of the marital estate, and, in extreme cases, criminal charges. Unfortunately, this still happens too often, putting the fairness of your settlement at risk.

At Shaffer Family Law in Arizona, we don’t let hidden property go unnoticed. Our attorneys take every necessary step to uncover concealed assets and secure your financial future, ensuring you receive the just and equitable outcome you deserve. Protect what’s rightfully yours—contact us at (480) 470-3030 or book your appointment online today.

High-Conflict Divorce in Arizona

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Let’s be honest—breakups are tough for anyone. Think back to one you experienced when you were younger; it probably felt like you’d never get over it. Now amplify that feeling by a marriage built on commitment and the expectation of a lifetime together. The reality is that divorce can be one of the most challenging experiences in a person’s life, often bringing out a wide range of emotions, including anger, sadness, resentment, confusion, and denial.

At Shaffer Family Law, we have firsthand experience with how these feelings can turn even the most amicable cases into contentious ones. While conflict is a natural part of divorce, when every decision sparks tension and every interaction feels like an uphill battle, it can make the process far more complex. High-conflict divorces—though they don’t have a strict legal definition—are typically characterized by heated disputes, an inability to compromise, a lack of cooperation, and frequent arguments. They are often prolonged, expensive, and emotionally draining for everyone involved, including children.

If you’re facing a high-conflict divorce in Maricopa County or elsewhere in Arizona, partnering with the attorneys at Shaffer Family Law should be a top priority. We provide the guidance, support, and legal expertise you need to navigate these complex challenges and protect your interests every step of the way.

Challenges in High-Conflict Divorce Cases in Arizona

Communications Breakdowns: Conversations often escalate into arguments, making it difficult to reach agreements on key issues such as child custody, visitation, and financial arrangements.
Escalating Emotions: Strong feelings of anger, resentment, frustration, and anxiety can flare repeatedly, turning even minor disagreements into major disputes.
Impact on Children: Children may experience anxiety, confusion, or divided loyalties as they witness ongoing tension between parents. This can affect their emotional well-being, academic performance, and social development.
Prolonged Legal Process: High-conflict divorces often involve repeated court appearances, mediation sessions, and legal interventions, which can extend timelines and delay resolution.
Difficulty Reaching Agreements: The inability or unwillingness to compromise can make decisions about property division, parenting plans, and spousal support especially challenging.
Emotional and Mental Health Issues: Continuous disputes can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental health struggles for both spouses.
Uncertainty About the Future: Planning for the future—whether it’s housing, finances, or your own well-being—can be difficult when legal proceedings are ongoing, and outcomes remain unknown.

Navigate High-Conflict Divorce in Arizona with Shaffer Family Law on Your Side

Divorce doesn’t have to turn into a battle, but when conflict emerges, being prepared is essential. Seeking legal guidance is your strongest ally to ensure your rights are safeguarded, your decisions are guided by reason rather than emotion, and you receive the advocacy you need throughout the process.

When you work with Shaffer Family Law in Arizona, you gain a team of dedicated attorneys experienced in high-conflict divorces and all areas of family law, including property division, custody arrangements, spousal support, and more. While litigation may sometimes be unavoidable, we focus on helping you and your family achieve the most favorable resolution—both in and out of the courtroom.

Contact us at (480) 470-3030 or schedule your appointment online today to take the first step toward a more secure and positive future.

Military Divorce in Arizona

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You joined the military, and while stationed on your base, you met the love of your life. After getting married and dreaming of a future together, orders suddenly came for a relocation—possibly to another state or even overseas. Suddenly, difficult decisions loomed: would your spouse move with you, leaving behind a life and career they had built, or would you spend months—or even years—apart?

It might sound like the plot of a movie, but for military couples, this is reality. Constant relocations, unpredictable schedules, and long deployments can place enormous strain on even the strongest relationships. Over time, the emotional distance, stress, and demands of military life can become overwhelming, sometimes pushing couples toward divorce despite their best efforts.

At Shaffer Family Law, we recognize that all relationships present challenges, but military marriages face unique pressures that civilian couples often do not encounter. While a military divorce follows the same basic legal steps as any divorce, it also presents its own set of complexities. If you’re a service member or the spouse of one, understanding what to expect can make a significant difference as you navigate this process and plan for your future.

Challenges of Military Divorce in Arizona

Jurisdiction: To file for divorce in Arizona, at least one spouse must be a permanent resident or have lived (domiciled) in the state for at least 90 days. Because military service members are often stationed elsewhere, it’s important to ensure you file in the correct jurisdiction to avoid dismissals, delays, and additional costs.
Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA): The SCRA protects deployed service members by requiring that divorce proceedings be postponed until 60 days after their return—or that the service member waives this right.
Property Division : Arizona is a community property state, meaning assets and debts acquired during the marriage are typically split equally. For military couples, this may include retirement benefits, real estate, and investments. However, frequent relocations and housing allowances can complicate what constitutes marital property.
Military Pensions & Retirement Pay: Under Arizona and federal law, only the portion of a military pension or retirement pay earned during the marriage is considered marital property. Guidelines, such as the 10/10 or 20/20/20 rules, determine how these benefits are divided between spouses.
Spousal Maintenance & Custody Considerations: Calculating alimony and child support can be complex for military families, as income sources such as housing allowances or special pay may impact the amounts. Deployments and frequent relocations can also influence custody arrangements. Courts weigh the child’s best interests while taking into account the unique demands of military life.
Benefits & Healthcare: A former spouse’s access to TRICARE, base privileges, and other military benefits depends on the length of the marriage and overlap with the service member’s military career.

Experienced Military Divorce Attorneys in Chandler, Arizona

Divorce is never easy, but when it involves a military member, the stakes are even higher. Every aspect of a military divorce—from where you can file to dividing benefits, pensions, and calculating child support—requires careful attention and expertise. At Shaffer Family Law, our attorneys guide you through these complexities with a deep understanding of both family law and federal regulations, helping you protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome at every step.

If you are a service member, the soon-to-be-ex spouse of one, or both, taking control of your options is the first step toward achieving a fair resolution and a secure future. Contact us today at Shaffer Family Law or schedule your consultation online, and let’s work together to map out the best path forward.

Fault vs No-Fault Divorce in Arizona

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When a marriage ends, there are often two sides to the story. One spouse may feel the other is accountable for the breakdown of the relationship—and in many cases, those feelings are valid. Trust can be shattered through infidelity, domestic violence, addiction, financial abuse, or other harmful behaviors, leaving lasting emotional scars.

In fault-based states, you must prove these specific grounds to obtain a divorce. But what about Arizona? Do the courts consider who is to blame for the marriage’s breakdown? Laws vary from state to state, and Arizona is a no-fault divorce state. This means you do not need to show wrongdoing by either spouse to file for a divorce. You simply need to state that the relationship has “irretrievably broken”.

In the United States, divorces generally fall into these two categories, and understanding their distinction is essential for knowing your rights, protecting your interests, and navigating the process effectively.

Key Differences Between Fault and No-Fault Divorce

Proof of Misconduct: Unlike a no-fault divorce, a fault-based divorce requires one partner to prove that the other is responsible for the breakdown of the marriage.
Grounds for Divorce: No-fault divorces rely on statements such as “irretrievably broken,” while fault-based cases are grounded in specific reasons, including infidelity, abuse, addiction, abandonment, or financial improprieties.
Process: Since fault-based divorces require proof of wrongdoing, they are typically more complex, often involving evidence, witness testimony, and lengthier legal proceedings. In contrast, no-fault divorces only require a judge to determine that the marriage is irretrievably broken with no chance of reconciliation, making the process quicker, simpler, and less contentious.
Emotional Strain: Divorce is emotionally challenging, no matter the legal path, but fault-based divorces often add extra stress. Revisiting and exposing your spouse’s harmful actions can stir up painful memories and intensify emotions you may be trying to move past. These cases may also take longer, involve more court appearances, and can become contentious if one party resists agreements.
Financial Impact: In Arizona, marital assets and debt are typically split equally. While no-fault divorces do not deal in blame, proof of misconduct may still influence decisions on child custody, support, or property division. Fault-based divorces can directly affect settlements, sometimes benefiting the innocent partner.

Experienced No-Fault Divorce Lawyers in Chandler, Arizona

Divorce is already difficult enough without the added pressure of having to prove allegations in court. The truth is that some marriages reach a point where parting ways becomes the healthiest path forward for everyone involved. Fortunately, for those in Chandler and throughout Arizona, the state’s no-fault approach helps streamline the process. However, it’s important to note that couples in covenant marriages must still prove specific grounds—such as adultery, abandonment, or domestic violence—before a divorce can be granted.

No matter the reason for ending your marriage, whether or not your spouse is to blame, it’s essential to have trusted legal guidance. At Shaffer Family Law, we’ve supported countless clients across Maricopa County and the surrounding areas as they navigate divorce and other complex family law matters. We understand how difficult this transition can be, and we’re committed to helping you make informed decisions that protect both your future and that of your family.

Contact us at (480) 470-3030 or request your appointment online to speak with a member of our team. Let’s explore the best path forward together.

How Child Support is Calculated in Arizona

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Child support is often misunderstood as a burden, but in truth, it exists to protect your child’s well-being. Providing financial support isn’t a punishment or a tool for control — it’s a way to ensure your children maintain a stable, positive standard of living that meets their needs. As a parent, contributing financially is part of offering the care, security, and opportunities your child deserves, in line with each parent’s ability to pay.

At Shaffer Family Law, we understand that navigating child support—whether you’re the parent paying or receiving—can feel overwhelming. That’s why we work closely with our clients during this challenging time, helping them reach fair and balanced arrangements that prioritize the well-being of their children. We are committed to guiding you through the process and ensuring the same positive outcome for your family.

In Arizona, child support is calculated using the Income Shares Model, which estimates the amount a child would receive if both parents were living together. Responsibility is then divided between the parents based on their individual incomes and financial circumstances, ensuring the child’s needs remain the top priority. Let’s take a closer look at how child support is calculated and the factors that influence the amount.

Key Factors That Determine Child Support in Arizona

Under Arizona law, child support is determined using a formula outlined in the Arizona Child Support Guidelines, which considers factors such as:

Each Parent’s Gross Income: This includes all sources of income, not just traditional wages and salaries. Examples include commissions, investments, bonuses, pensions, and earnings from self-employment. If a parent is unemployed or underemployed, the court may estimate income based on their potential earning capacity.
Number of Children: Considers how many children require support and their ages.
Parenting Time: During a divorce, custody arrangements are formalized in a parenting plan that specifies the child’s residence and how time will be shared between parents. The amount of time each parent spends with the child can impact child support, with increased parenting time potentially reducing the amount of support owed.
Health Insurance: When one parent provides health insurance for the child, the cost of the insurance is included in the calculation. If no parent provides coverage, the court may consider expected out-of-pocket medical expenses when determining the support amount.
Educational and Childcare Expenses: Costs such as tuition, school supplies, extracurricular activities, daycare, or babysitting needed for a parent to work or attend school can be factored into support or addressed in parental agreements.
Other Financial Obligations: Existing child support or court-ordered spousal maintenance (alimony) payments are taken into account.

Experienced Child Support Attorneys in Arizona at Shaffer Family Law

In most cases, when parents divorce, the parent who spends less time with the child—typically the noncustodial parent—is required to pay child support to the parent with primary custody. However, this support is meant to cover the child’s essential needs, including food, housing, clothing, education, and healthcare, regardless of which parent the child is with.

If you’d like to estimate child support on your own, the Arizona Judicial Branch offers a free online calculator. Keep in mind, however, that the court may order a different amount depending on each parent’s financial situation and the child’s unique needs.

Managing child support and family law matters can be complex, but Shaffer Family Law is here to assist you every step of the way. With extensive experience serving parents across Maricopa County and throughout Arizona, our family law attorneys handle a wide range of issues beyond child support, including divorce, child custody, property division, alimony and more. We are dedicated to protecting your rights while prioritizing the best interests of your child.

Contact us at (480) 470-3030 or request an appointment today to receive personalized guidance and dedicated representation for your case.

Sources:
https://www.azcourts.gov/familylaw/Child-Support-Family-Law-Information/About-the-Child-Support-Calculator#Which
https://superiorcourt.maricopa.gov/media/41epgvrd/drs1z.pdf

Gray Divorce in Arizona

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You enter your golden years looking forward to retirement, eager to spend more time with your loved ones—including the spouse with whom you’ve shared a lifetime of memories. Yet, instead of feeling relaxed and secure about the future, this new chapter can bring difficult conversations about divorce and the possibility of starting over. For many older couples, often after decades of marriage, this is an increasingly common reality—a phenomenon known as “gray divorce.”

In fact, gray divorce rates have doubled over the last 30 years, and this trend isn’t limited to Arizona—it’s occurring nationwide. Several factors contribute to this rise, including growing societal acceptance of divorce, longer life spans, children leaving the home, and newfound financial or personal independence, among others.

Navigating a gray divorce can be complicated, and having a trusted firm like Shaffer Family Law by your side can make all the difference. Unlike younger couples, older adults face unique legal complexities, including health insurance, high-value assets, pensions, retirement savings, and Social Security benefits. Understanding these issues is essential for protecting your financial and personal well-being.

Understanding the Legal Considerations in a Gray Divorce

Property Division: During their marriage, couples often accumulate significant assets, including real estate, vehicles, and business interests. In Arizona, assets acquired during the marriage are generally considered community property and subject to equitable division. Determining the value and division of long-term holdings—like the family home—can be complex, especially when sentimental value is involved.
Retirement Accounts: After decades of work, many couples have substantial retirement savings, including 401(k)s, IRAs, and pensions. In a gray divorce, these accounts may represent the largest marital assets and dividing them can directly impact each spouse’s retirement plans and long-term financial security.
Social Security Benefits: While Social Security benefits are not marital property and cannot be divided in a divorce, spouses married for at least 10 years, aged 62 or older, and currently unmarried may still be eligible to claim benefits based on their ex-spouse’s earnings.
Health Insurance and Medicare: Divorce may result in the loss of coverage under a spouse’s health insurance plan. Options include securing a new plan through an employer, the Health Insurance Marketplace, or COBRA, which allows continued coverage for a limited period. For those 65 or older, you can become eligible for Medicare.
Spousal Maintenance (Alimony): A lower-earning spouse—who may have sacrificed their career to support their partner or focus on raising children—may be awarded alimony to help maintain a comparable standard of living after the divorce.
Estate Planning: After a divorce, it is crucial to update your estate plan and beneficiary designations. This ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and reflect your updated circumstances, including retirement accounts, life insurance, and other long-term holdings.

Navigate Your Gray Divorce in Arizona with Expert Guidance from Shaffer Family Law

Gray divorce involves much more than simply ending a marriage; it brings emotional, financial, and family challenges that require careful planning and support. From fairly splitting the family home and other valuable assets to dividing retirement funds and navigating the loss of health insurance, the process can feel overwhelming. However, with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be. With so much at stake, Shaffer Family Law is here to support you throughout the process, addressing your legal, economic, and personal concerns so you can make informed decisions that protect your interests and secure your future.

No matter your age, you deserve to live a fulfilling and happy life. If ending your marriage is the step toward that goal, we’re here for you every step of the way. If custody matters are part of your case, our attorneys can help you navigate those challenges with confidence. Call us at (480) 470-3030 or schedule your consultation online today.

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