Spousal maintenance is not automatically granted in Illinois divorce cases, and it will typically only be awarded if a spouse can demonstrate a financial need. Is spousal maintenance mandatory in Illinois?The Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage of Act sets out three different types of maintenance: fixed-term, reviewable, and indefinite. A judge can make one spouse pay the other spouse money on an ongoing basis after a divorce. This is called maintenance. Navigate alimony and settlement discussions in Illinois with our stepbystep guide. Ensure financial readiness for a smoother process. The simplified divorce procedure can only be used if you meet all of the legal requirements set forth in sections 2(a) through 2(j) of the petition. What are the grounds for divorce in Illinois? Spousal maintenance is meant to help a former partner gain independence who may otherwise struggle financially after the divorce.