Alimony, or maintenance as you call it; in general men do earn more. Even if he does not support his ex-wife, he should contribute to the upbringing of the child/ children. In the worst case scenario, a man divorces his wife who had stayed at home to care for the family for the last number of years. The woman had attained no other skills, than being mother and wife, that will make her attractive in the job market. Isn't it only fair that her ex-husband pays for her livelihood, too, at least until she is able to gain some skills? What if she goes back to work but doesn't even earn enough to pay for her children's babysitter fees? I think there's a lot to consider in a divorce and it's not fair to say the courts always rule in favour of the female.

If people suffer in a marriage, they should look for help. If 'help' won't do, persevering and suffering their whole lives through and making people around them suffer, may not be a good idea either.

I guess people should be sure about that they are entering into when they decide to get married. Start with the goal that it will last a lifetime and work at the commitment. Think less as an individual but as a person whose life intertwines with another's.

Nicole