The determination of financial support for children in Arizona following parental separation or divorce is based on a standardized guideline. This guideline employs a formula that primarily considers the gross incomes of both parents, accounting for factors such as the number of children, costs of childcare, and medical insurance expenses. The objective is to ensure children receive adequate financial resources from both parents, proportional to their ability to contribute.
Establishing appropriate financial contributions significantly benefits children by maintaining a consistent standard of living post-separation. This consistency can alleviate stress and promote stability during a period of significant change. The structured approach also streamlines legal proceedings, reducing conflict between parents and promoting more efficient resolution of support orders. Historically, reliance on less structured, discretionary methods often led to inconsistencies and inequities, underscoring the value of a codified methodology.
