If you were ordered by a judge to pay alimony to your ex-spouse, you might be frustrated and believe the ruling was unfair. However, you should never stop paying alimony altogether. Instead, hire a family lawyer to help you file a request a hearing for spousal support modification.
Here are some of the consequences of not paying alimony:
Seize Assets
If it has been a while since you have made alimony payments to your ex-spouse, the court may choose to seize your assets, such as your house, in order to collect the money you owe.
Wage Garnishment
Failure to pay alimony can also result in wage garnishment. The judge can order your employer to withhold the alimony amount from your paycheck and send it to ex-spouse. This will guarantee your ex-spouse receives the alimony regularly.
Driver’s License Revocation
If you have not paid alimony to your ex-spouse, the court can also choose to take away your driver’s license for a long period of time. This can make it difficult for you to get to work, the grocery store and other important places. You will have to rely on other people to give you rides to places.
Arrest
Finally, not paying alimony can lead to criminal charges. If you have failed to comply with court orders in regards to alimony payments, the judge could have you arrested.
What Should You Do If You Can’t Afford Your Alimony Payments?
Certain life events, like job loss or pay reductions, can prevent you from making your alimony payments. If something is keeping you from paying alimony, you should file for spousal support modification.
In order for the judge to grant your request, you will have to show proof that you can’t pay the current alimony amount. For example, if you got fired from your job, you should bring your termination letter to your hearing.
When Can You Stop Making Alimony Payments?
There are certain situations where your ex-spouse won’t be eligible for alimony payments anymore. For instance, if your ex-spouse has had a pay increase at work and can fully support him or herself, you may not have to make payments anymore. Your ex-spouse may also not be eligible for support if he or she remarries.
Hiring a Family Lawyer
If you do not think you should have to pay your ex-spouse alimony anymore or want to reduce the amount you pay, it is important to speak to a divorce law firm as soon as possible. He or she can help you file for spousal support modification and represent you in court.