What Is Wife Maintenance in Jordanian Law and Its Conditions?

In Jordanian law, the alimony for a wife is governed by several articles in the Personal Status Law. Here are the key points:

1. Obligation of Alimony: According to Article 59 (المادة 59), the husband is obligated to provide alimony to his wife, even if she is financially well-off. This alimony includes food, clothing, housing, medical care, and the services of a servant if she is accustomed to having one.

2. Determination of Alimony: Article 64 (المادة 64) states that the alimony is determined based on the husband's financial situation, whether he is wealthy or not. It can be increased or decreased according to his financial status, but it must not fall below the minimum necessary for food, clothing, housing, and medical care. The alimony is either agreed upon by the spouses or determined by a judge.

3. Conditions for Alimony: Article 60 (المادة 60) specifies that alimony is due to the wife from the time of a valid marriage contract, even if she resides with her family. However, if the husband requests her to move to the marital home and she refuses without a legitimate reason, she is not entitled to alimony. She has the right to refuse if the husband has not paid her immediate dowry or has not provided a legitimate residence.

4. In Case of Husband's Absence: Article 68 (المادة 68) provides that if the husband is absent and leaves his wife without alimony, or if he travels to a distant place, the judge can rule for her alimony based on evidence she provides, after she swears an oath that her husband did not leave her with alimony and that she is not disobedient or aware of a divorce that has ended her waiting period.

For official advice and to ensure compliance with the latest legal standards, it is recommended to consult a qualified lawyer.