Court-ordered obligations to pay spousal and child support have long been are common for many going through the divorce process. A recent survey, however, is confirming that big changes are afoot in terms of who is stuck with the bill, as an increasing number of women are being required to write checks for support.
In this article, the San Diego men’s divorce lawyers at the Men’s Legal Center will delve into the survey and explain what’s going on.
The Survey at a Glance
Carried out by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), the survey revealed that 54 percent of respondents confirmed an increase in the number of mothers ordered to pay child support over the past three years. Over the same period, 45 percent of the surveyed lawyers reported an increase in the number of women ordered to pay spousal support.
What’s causing more women to pay spousal and child support?
The most obvious reason is the continued rise of two-income households and the increase of mothers who are the breadwinners.
While 47 percent of U.S. households in 1965 had both spouses working, that number is now up to 62 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. Also, the Pew Research Center confirms that mothers are the primary earners in 4 out of 10 U.S. households today.
What’s the reaction among women about this latest form of gender equity? “Many women still have a very difficult time accepting that this financial obligation might fall to them,” said the president of the AAML.
Evolving Changes in Spousal Support
In a landmark decision, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that spousal support should be gender-neutral. Previously, only husbands who were required to pay. Since then, states shifted away from the notion of permanent spousal support in an effort to help one of the divorcing parties transition back into the workforce.
If you’re a man facing divorce, call the San Diego men’s divorce lawyers at the Men’s Legal Center.
Our sole purpose is to make sure men have the resources and knowledge they need for the best possible outcome in family court.
You can reach us at 619-234-3838 or via email.