Hildebrand Law, PC

4.2

Jerry Thompson

Jerry Thompson

14:17 03 Oct 19

Very professional, kind and understanding.

Michelle Harrington

Michelle Harrington

20:54 24 Jul 19

I hired Michael Clancy just when I was about to give up on an existing post-decree case which I started with a different attorney over a year ago. Michael is knowledgeable, upfront and personable; he gave me the confidence to continue and settle my post decree case. I knew he was secure, capable and could handle my case and represent me well. He did everything he could to ensure a great outcome for the modification of my current court orders to help my son have a more stable mental, social and physical well-being, which to me is priceless! I would highly recommend him to anyone who wants to be in the best possible hands during one of the most stressful events that could happen to any parent that wants the best for their child/children. Thank you Michael for fighting for my son's safety!! Also, his paralegal, Alison, was awesome and very helpful!read more

Shari Abbit

Shari Abbit

21:15 12 Apr 19

HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Cannot say enough wonderful things about my experience with Hildebrand Law. I have been working with Chris and the firm for about 6 years now, and I always feel like my concerns, issues and questions are addressed in a thorough and timely manner. They definitely have my best interests at heart. I recommend Chris whenever anyone asks me who I used as my divorce attorney. Great firm and great results!read more

Shari Abbit

Shari Abbit

21:15 12 Apr 19

HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Cannot say enough wonderful things about my experience with Hildebrand Law. I have been working with Chris and the firm for about 6 years now, and I always feel like my concerns, issues and questions are addressed in a thorough and timely manner. They definitely have my best interests at heart. I recommend Chris whenever anyone asks me who I used as my divorce attorney. Great firm and great results!read more

Brandi Slaybaugh

Brandi Slaybaugh

13:11 05 Apr 19

Compassionate and patient and helped so much. The best attorney I've ever dealt with. Nothing but good things to say about Chris. So grateful.read more

Rick Cabral

Rick Cabral

23:23 22 Jan 19

Chris Hildebrand is one of the sharpest and effective attorneys that I have encountered in my 27 years of business. Doing business on the East Coast, as well as Southern California and Arizona has afforded me countless opportunities to work with legal minds from various parts of the country. Needless to say, Chris is by far one of the most honest, intelligent and street smart attorneys I have encountered. I have referred a number of people to Chris and everyone has been fully satisfied. 100% recommend him!read more

Rick Cabral

Rick Cabral

23:23 22 Jan 19

Chris Hildebrand is one of the sharpest and effective attorneys that I have encountered in my 27 years of business. Doing business on the East Coast, as well as Southern California and Arizona has afforded me countless opportunities to work with legal minds from various parts of the country. Needless to say, Chris is by far one of the most honest, intelligent and street smart attorneys I have encountered. I have referred a number of people to Chris and everyone has been fully satisfied. 100% recommend him!read more

Niko RedMoon

Niko RedMoon

02:57 18 Jan 19

This is not only a great law firm that cares about their clients but also the results they get for their clients. Great people and attorneys, I highly recommend this firm!read more

Richard Sipan

Richard Sipan

23:51 18 Oct 18

I first should comment on how I found this law firm. I am an attorney myself, though never licensed in Arizona. I moved to Arizona to rejoin my wife and son, who had moved out to Arizona ahead of me. Things soured. I don't know why, but they did.There was a particular issue for me with inherited property. I did some basic Internet research, and Hildebrand's name kept coming up as the author of scholarly articles on the issue concerning me. I asked that Hildebrand be assigned to my case. This was not possible, but his second in command, Mr. Micuda, took over, and Mr. Micuda knows his business.The initial scheduled 1 hour meeting ran for an hour and 45 minutes, and facts, law, and strategy were fully discussed. Throughout the case, everything was explained to me clearly, both verbally and in writing.Proceedings went forward without delay. Because I had selected one of the most prominent Domestic Relations firms in town, there was no serious opposition. This ended up being an essentially co-operative divorce between the two sides, the reasoning being to conserve assets rather than enrich lawyers.Through a series of 3 or 4 payments, I put up about $10,000 for fees and costs. I found the Hildebrand law firm's billings to be fair. They billed for work done; no padding. I am getting about 25% of what I paid in back, as a refund.The matter was done in about 6 months: divorce, agreed property settlement, agreed support provisions as to my son. My matters were handled by an attorney and paralegal team, and handled efficiently.Mine was not a "big" case in terms of its economic value to anyone, but I did not feel like a second or third class citizen; I was treated with the same respect, even though the dispute was over a condo, as opposed to, say, a Scottsdale mansion with land.This may sound strange, but i was actually somewhat sorry that the matter had to come to a conclusion. I felt that I had been treated like a friend, not just an anonymous customer. Being a practical man, I realize it's down to sending a Christmas or other seasonal card.As I said at the outset, I found this place by dint of my own research. I feel I am a lucky man that I did.read more

Jim Caryl

Jim Caryl

22:53 26 Jul 18

I interviewed several firms and selected Hildebrand Law for my difficult military divorce as a direct result of their whole family concern and integrity. During the interview process the professionals at Hildebrand Law were as concerned for the well being of my children as I was and ensured that they presented several options along the way to ensure that we protected my children's needs as well as my financial situation. At each decision point they laid out a clear path, how it impacted the children, the financial situation. They even reminded me that my ultimate stated goal was the best interest of my children each time the other party got particularly challenging and my frustration was getting the better of me. The owner handled my case personally and was exceptionally well versed in the unique aspects of a divorce involving the military and associated benefits. Won't need them again (fingers crossed!!! :) ) but would totally recommend them to anyone!read more

sandi rigney

sandi rigney

17:19 28 Jun 18

We had a fairly complicated case in Family Court and Juvenile Court. Kip was an excellent attorney. He covered every base there was to cover and left no stone unturned. I would highly recommend him to anyone going through custody proceedings. Hildebrand Law is an excellent law firm and I am confident that Kip or any of their other attorneys would do an excellent job! Thanks Kip and Hildebrand Law!read more

PrinceAiden Johnson

PrinceAiden Johnson

17:15 13 Jun 18

The firm of Hildebrand Law is top notch. It's necessary to state again that Kent Millward is the epitome of excellence in a vast community of attorneys and will fight valiantly for you. We hired Kent and discovered a very good attorney with a good heart. For great family law representation and more this is the Law Firm for you. To Chris, Kent, Alison and all of Hildebrand Law,Thank you so much!read more

Bassam Ziadeh

Bassam Ziadeh

21:20 02 Apr 18

I retained Hildebrand Law after interview a number of firms in the valley. Working with Michael C. was incredibly easy and informative. My case progressed in such a organized and thought out way to ensure that my needs were met. Michael was incredibly proactive and was able to see far ahead into my case to steer clear of some roadblocks. I would not hesitate to recommend Michael Clancy, and Hildebrand Law in general, to anyone.read more

Larry Flint

Larry Flint

21:53 27 Feb 18

I have worked with Hildebrand law for about 8 years. They are always ready to serve, provide guidance and give you a few options. When they provide you options they also take the time to walk you through the pros and cons of each and give you a recommendation of what is best, but will listen to you and support whatever course you choose after making and educated choice. I’d recommend them to my closest friends and feel Chris Hildebrand is now a friend to me.read more

A Google User

A Google User

16:03 22 Nov 17

Dear Stacey and Kip, How can I ever thank you enough for helping me through the most difficult time in my life? I couldn't put into words my heartfelt gratefulness. You both were so compassionate and professional at every given moment throughout this process with me. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You helped me to regain my freedom.read more

A Google User

A Google User

21:41 07 Nov 17

I just want to again thank the Firm for working with me all that it has. I could not have done anything without everyone's assistance. You, Chris and Stacey have been and continue to provide me with compassion and hard work towards my case. Also a very special thanks to Kip for taking my case in the beginning. Also continued support from him and his dedication to providing me with his expertise in this matter.read more

A Google User

A Google User

18:16 18 Sep 17

Chris is a smart and aggressive attorney for his clients. Chris always tries to reach a fair settlement of his cases. I’ve represented clients when Chris was the opposing counsel and while he is professional and amicable to work with, he does not back off on what he needs to do for his clientread more

Lindsay Donoian

Lindsay Donoian

06:53 27 Sep 14

I cannot express enough how thankful I am that I found Hildrebrand Law. Chris Hildebrand is an excellent attorney who has my best interests in mind and always encourages me to do the right thing regardless of what the opposing party is doing. Chris knows family law very well and relies on that knowledge to format options and solutions for each situation that may arise. He knows what the Court expects and what will and will not be tolerated. He has attempted to settle this case quickly and as inexpensively as possible from the start. His paralegal, Laura, is remarkable. She is organized, quick to respond, and compassionate. Chris is well prepared with a binder full of detailed and organized information and that is likely due to her thorough skills and expertise. While getting a divorce that was unexpected is a painful and difficult process, Chris and Laura treat my family and I like friends rather than another just "client." I am hopeful that I do not need to recommend divorce lawyers to anyone in the future but if I do, Hildebrand Law will be a recommendation I would give hands down. read more

Sam Franchimone

Sam Franchimone

22:09 12 Sep 13

Despite the unfortunate situation I found myself in, Chris Hildebrand @ Hildebrand Law helped me maneuver every step with professionalism, expertise, and even a sensitivity that was an added bonus. Chris and his staff helped me even when I didn't know I needed the help. In other words. . . they made sure we did not leave anything undone. And in the rare instance we needed the expertise of another professional, Chris knew exactly who to recommend. Chris also knew, because of his experience, what to anticipate down the road of litigation. That meant we were better prepared to meet the challenges head on, which lead to a more equitable and fair outcome. I appreciated that Chris did his best to meet my every need in a timely fashion, even if I had a simple question that required only a phone call or e-mail or if we needed to talk face-to-face. I highly recommend Chris Hildebrand @ Hildebrand Law, PC.read more

See All Reviews

Home » Alimony and Spousal Maintenance Laws in AZ | Hildebrand Law, PC » Denial of Spousal Support as a Sanction in an Arizona Divorce | Hildebrand Law

Denial of Spousal Support as a Sanction in an Arizona Divorce | Hildebrand Law

Denial of Spousal Support as a Sanction in an Arizona Divorce

Learn About the Denial of Spousal Support as a Sanction in Arizona From Our Experienced Spousal Maintenance Attorney Chris Hildebrand of Hildebrand Law, PC.

An issue may arise in some divorce cases concerning whether a judge may order a denial of spousal support as a sanction in an Arizona divorce.

A judge may order a spouse to pay spousal support, called spousal maintenance, in an Arizona divorce case.

A judge may also order sanctions against a spouse for, among other things, failing to disclose financial or other information in a divorce case.

A question arose in the case of Bjotvedt vs. Bjotvedt whether the court may refuse to award spousal maintenance to a spouse as a sanction for failing to disclose financial information in a divorce case in Arizona.

The Arizona Court of Appeals in a memorandum decision, in that case, answered that question.

In that case, the husband filed for divorce.

The mother had been a stay at home mother caring for their children for the past 15 years prior to the divorce filing.

The wife requested an award of spousal maintenance in the divorce.

The wife also filed an Affidavit of Financial Information in which she listed her monthly living expenses.

Before trial, both parties were ordered to complete discovery at least 15 days prior to the trial, ordered the parties to submit a Joint Pretrial Statement, and ordered both parties to exchange update Affidavits of Financial Information.

Sanctions and Denials of Awards of Spousal Support in Arizona

Prior to trial, the husband filed a motion to compel seeking sanctions against the wife for not disclosing certain information he requested.

That motion was denied by the court.

During the trial, the wife testified about her income, expenses and her attempts to find a job.

Neither party used the wife’s initial Affidavit of Financial Information as evidence in the trial.

After trial, the court divided the community property and debt and, although finding the wife was entitled to spousal maintenance, entered a denial of spousal support as a sanction in an Arizona divorce.

The denied to wife any spousal support as a sanction was for her failure to disclose all of her financial documentation.

Ruling on Sanctions and Spousal Support Issues

The Court of Appeals found that a person is entitled to an award of spousal maintenance if they meet any of the requirements for spousal maintenance set forth in Arizona Revised Statute Section 25-319(A).

The Court of Appeals also ruled that a trial court must then consider all of the factors set forth in Arizona Revised Statute Section 25-319(B) to determine the amount and duration of an award if the court finds a spouse is entitled to an award of alimony.

The Court of Appeals ruled that a court issues a sanction for failing to disclose information in a divorce case that sanction must “bear some relationship to the violation.”

In this case, the Arizona Court of Appeals found the trial court made an error when it first found the wife was entitled to spousal support and then, without considering the mandatory part of the statute to determine the amount and duration of that award, simply denied the wife’s spousal maintenance claim as a sanction for not disclosing information before trial.

The Court of Appeals found the information the wife did disclose had remained unchanged and, therefore, her failure to disclose updated financial information did not prejudice the husband’s ability to present evidence on the issue of spousal maintenance.

As a result, the Arizona Court of Appeals sent the case back to the trial court with instructions for the trial court to analyze the factors in the statute to determine how much alimony the wife was to receive and for how long she would receive it.

Book an Appointment Today!

Book an Appointment Today!

Contact Our Scottsdale Arizona Alimony Attorneys

Call us today at (480)305-8300 to schedule your personalized consultation with one of our experienced Arizona spousal maintenance attorneys at our award-winning law firm located in Scottsdale, Arizona to get answers to your questions about spousal maintenance in Arizona.

U.S. News and World Report “Best Divorce Law Firm | 2020”, “Best of the Valley” by Arizona Foothills Magazine, “Top Family Law Attorney” by North Valley Magazine, “AV Rated Divorce Attorney” by Martindale-Hubbell” and many more.

Other Articles About Spousal Maintenance in Arizona

Chris Hildebrand

Chris Hildebrand

Chris Hildebrand wrote the information on this page about spousal maintenance in Arizona to ensure everyone has access to information about spousal maintenance laws in Arizona. Chris is a divorce and spousal maintenance attorney at Hildebrand Law, PC. He has over 24 years of Arizona family law experience and has received multiple awards, including US News and World Report “Top Arizona Divorce Attorneys”, Phoenix Magazine “Top Divorce Law Firms”, and Arizona Foothills Magazine “Best of the Valley” award. He believes the policies and procedures he uses to get his clients through a divorce should all be guided by the principles of honesty, integrity, and actually caring about what his clients are going through in a divorce.