This article and video explain spousal maintenance (alimony) in Washington State. They also explain undifferentiated family support.The alimony lawyers at S.L. Pitts in Seattle, Washington have decades of experience helping spouses navigate this complicated issue successfully. The court may grant a maintenance order for either spouse or either domestic partner. Spousal support can be boiled down to these key factors: 1) the requesting spouse's need for financial support and 2) the other spouse's ability to pay it. Therefore, the supported spouse must demonstrate their need for financial assistance and the supporting spouse's ability to pay. At the most basic level, alimony depends on one spouse's need for financial support and the other spouse's ability to pay it. How is Spousal Support Calculated in Washington State? The legal issues surrounding the award of Spousal Maintenance are confusing, numerous and can be challenging to predict in their outcome. However, spousal maintenance is not guaranteed in the State of Washington, and the court will review each case based on merit.