What is the purpose of the Affidavit of Financial Information in Arizona?
The Affidavit of Financial Information is a critical document used by the Superior Court of Arizona, specifically in Maricopa County, during legal matters that involve financial decisions, such as child support, spousal maintenance, division of expenses, attorneys' fees and costs, or adjustments to child support amounts. It requires detailed financial information from individuals to ensure fair and informed decisions can be made by the court regarding these financial matters.
Who needs to fill out the Affidavit of Financial Information?
Any individual involved in a legal case within the Superior Court of Arizona in Maricopa County that pertains to financial issues must complete the Affidavit of Financial Information. This includes cases related to child support, spousal maintenance, division of expenses, request for attorneys' fees and costs, and any adjustments or deviations from established child support amounts. Both parties must provide their financial details clearly and completely if they are part of such legal proceedings.
What happens if I do not provide accurate information on the Affidavit?
Providing false information or failing to disclose required financial details can lead to serious consequences. The court may treat such actions as perjury, which is a criminal offense. Additionally, if you fail to provide the necessary information, the judge may order sanctions against you, which could include fines or other penalties under Rule 31 of the Arizona Rules of Family Law Procedure.
How detailed must my financial information be on the Affidavit?
Your financial information must be thorough and precise. The Affidavit asks for comprehensive details about your income, expenses, employment status, and any other financial obligations or receipts. All amounts should be rounded to the nearest dollar, and if you are guessing an amount or do not know an exact figure, you are required to indicate as such. Additionally, if the space provided on the form is not enough, you can attach separate sheets to ensure completeness. All required documents, such as pay stubs, tax returns, and W-2 or 1099 forms, must also be attached as specified.
What documents do I need to attach to the Affidavit?
Along with filling out the Affidavit itself, you must attach copies of your two most recent pay stubs, your federal income tax returns for the last three years, and all accompanying W-2 and 1099 forms from all sources of income. If you are self-employed, additional documents such as Schedule C from your tax returns and a recent income/expense statement for your business must be included.
Are there any other important instructions I should be aware of when completing the Affidavit?
Yes, it is crucial to follow all instructions carefully. The Affidavit must be completed in black ink, and every question must be answered completely. For questions that do not apply, you should indicate "NA" for "not applicable." Also, if you mark "NO" to any of the questions regarding whether certain documents are attached, you need to explain your answer on a separate piece of paper and attach it to the Affididavit. This ensures clarity and completeness, which is essential for the fair treatment of your case in court.