There are always different perspectives to look at any situation. While i agree with you on your stand on guidance of elders, it is also true that so many marriages are breaking today because of the same. Newly married couples are not given the opportunities or freedom to build their relationship and trust by the elders, thereby resulting in early disintegration of marriage.
Not all lawyers are the same :)
Its not always so easy or simple. When you have the responsibility of a child or your own inability, you cant afford to be so righteous in your thinking. You have to be practical. And most importantly, when a relationship breaks, there is a lot of hurt. You want to hurt the other person as much and getting maintenance seems like hitting it right where it hurts. And justifiably so esp when there is adultery. a husband who breaks the sanctity of the institution of marriage, breaks the trust of his wife, should, even in my opinion, not be let go scot-free.