WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I CANNOT AFFORD MY ALIMONY PAYMENTS?
When alimony payments are initially awarded, they are based on the current circumstances of both parties. If long term alimony payments are ordered, the payor will likely encounter life changes that may impact their ability to pay. What should the payor do in these circumstances? Let’s discuss further.
What happens if I cannot afford to make my alimony payments?
You should immediately contact a lawyer, such as Michelle Hopkins, to assist you in having your support case reopened to adjust the payment, and to advise you on what steps you should take in the interim of the resolution of the case.
What happens if I miss making an alimony payment?
Missing an alimony payment may give your former spouse the ability to reopen the case, and you would be subject to legal ramifications for failing to pay. If a payment is missed, you should remit payment as soon as you are able to. If you are unable to pay the full amount immediately, add onto other payments until the outstanding payment has been fulfilled. If you fail to repay the missed payment, and anticipate that you will continue to fail to make payments, you need to enlist the help of a lawyer to avoid being in contempt of Court for violating your support order.
What if I genuinely cannot afford alimony payments I was ordered to pay?
If the Court ordered you to make alimony payments that you cannot afford, consult with a lawyer, such as Michelle Hopkins, to see what remedies are available to you, and to advise you as to what you should do in the interim of the spousal support order being updated.
How should I handle alimony payments if I have commission or other variable income?
If your income varies from month to month, you may be tempted to pay extra some months in anticipation of paying towards your alimony payments during months that you make less money. However, any extra payment made when there was not an outstanding balance owed is considered a gift. A Judge would not consider it towards future payments.
Pay the ordered amount each month, and if you are unable to make a full payment one month, add extra to future payments until that outstanding amount is covered.
What circumstances stop my alimony payments?
The spousal support order which states the terms of the alimony payments will state the circumstances which terminate payments. In most cases, the following circumstances cease alimony payments: the death of either party or the cohabitation or remarriage of the recipient of the alimony. If you believe that your case is subject to circumstances which would cause the alimony to cease, contact a lawyer, such as Michelle Hopkins, to assist you with the process.
Schedule A Consultation Today
When life changes, alimony may need to be reevaluated. Michelle Hopkins and her legal team have handled many alimony cases. They are ready to assist you with your alimony issues. Contact her office at info@mhopkinslaw.com or 571-248-2210 to schedule a consultation today.