Arizona is a “no-fault” state when it comes to divorce. This means that either spouse can file for divorce based on the fact that their marriage has become “irretrievably broken,” and no proof of marital fault is necessary.
It also means that spouses in Arizona cannot file for divorce on the basis of marital fault even if they wish to do so. As a result, for most purposes, it does not matter which spouse files for divorce in Arizona. The filing does not give either spouse an advantage in the process, and it does not afford the opportunity to assert fault-based grounds as it does in some other states.
With that said, the procedures and forms used to file for divorce and to respond to a divorce filing differ. Thus, if your spouse files before you, you (or your attorney) will need to take some different steps. If your spouse files, you will also have a deadline to respond, and this is important to keep in mind as well.