When you get laid off or fired a lot in your life changes. No longer having financial stability can be a scary thing. If you lose your job you will probably begin to question what expenses you can cut back on: eating out, random shopping, maybe even alimony payments to your former spouse? Even if you lose your job it is best not to stop paying alimony without first speaking with a judge and your lawyer. Reach out to a York County, PA alimony attorney to discuss your situation and legal options after losing your job.
What is Alimony?
Alimony, commonly referred to as spousal support, is a financial responsibility that one spouse has for another after a separation or divorce. In many marriages, one spouse works and acts as the “breadwinner” while the other works part-time or stays at home to raise their children or run the household. This arrangement often ends up creating a significant financial discrepancy between the two individuals.
Alimony is designed to close that gap and allow both spouses to continue living the lifestyle they have grown accustomed to during the marriage. Divorce should never financially ruin a person, so the higher-earning spouse paying monthly alimony to the lower-earning spouse helps even the playing field.
If I Lose My Job Can I Stop Paying Alimony?
Unfortunately for paying spouses, no, you cannot stop paying alimony to your ex just because you were laid off or fired. Typically losing your job is a temporary situation and will not result in your financial obligation expiring.
It is important to note that the only way to legally stop paying alimony or reduce your monthly payments is through permission from a court. If you cease payments on your own you will be in violation of your alimony order and can face various penalties.
What Are the Consequences of Stopping Alimony Payments?
Under Pennsylvania law, courts can enforce alimony payments in many ways. If you stop paying alimony or do not pay the full amount, you will face the following consequences.
- Contempt of court: A legal action that can result in fines, loss of property, and even jail time
- Fines: Financial penalties and interest on unpaid alimony
- License suspension: Suspension of a driver’s or professional license
- Property seizure: Taking of property, garnishing of wages, interception of profits from businesses or rental properties you may own
Because of the severity of the potential consequences, you should never stop alimony payments on your own. If you do, you run the risk of facing one or more of the above penalties.
Can I Get My Alimony Order Modified?
Yes, it is possible to have your alimony agreement modified. PA law recognizes that life circumstances are subject to change and what works on the day that the alimony order is created may not work permanently.
To get your order changed, work with your attorney to petition the court for a modification. Gather the evidence needed to prove you were let go from your job and financial statements that exemplify your current situation. Contact an attorney at Ilkhanoff & Silverstein today for more information.
