Although “alimony” is still commonly perceived to be a man’s burden, more and more women are providing financial support to their exes during or after a divorce. A recent survey of the members of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers indicates that 47% of American divorce lawyers have seen an increase in the number of women ordered to pay alimony to their husbands. 56% of those lawyers have also seen a greater number of woman who pay child support.

The reason for the uptick? The greater economic and career opportunities available to women. As more women become the higher earners in their families, more women end up bearing the greater financial burdens of a divorce.  And, they’re not any happier about their new-found financial obligations than men are.  “We see women who are every bit as angry as their male counterparts, maybe more so, when they are confronted with the concept of paying spousal support to a man,” says Alton Abramowitz, president-elect of the AAML.

As women continue to make strides in the professional world, we can expect to continue to see an increase in the number of women who out-earn their male counterparts. As that trend continues, we can also expect see more women paying child support and alimony.

Curious about how courts in Washington approach spousal support? Check out our previous articles which discuss the law of “maintenance” in Washington, here and here.

Story via Reuters.com.