The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 15 letter word LOW-MAINTENANCE
L
O
W
-
M
A
I
N
T
E
N
A
N
C
E
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "state of independence" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case state of independence = low-maintenance.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does LOW-MAINTENANCE mean?
LOW-MAINTENANCE adjective- Retaining proper functionality over long periods of time with little or no maintenance.
- Of a person: self-sufficient and not requiring much attention.