After a divorce, quite a bit will change in your life. As time passes, you will experience ups and downs, as will your ex. Sometimes, these changes are cause for a spousal support, or alimony, modification. In recent years, many courts have determined that nearly all spousal support agreements should be temporary in nature, which could mean a termination of spousal support if your original orders were to pay indefinitely.
At Alternative Divorce Solutions, our team of Orange County divorce mediation lawyers can help you with modifications and can work with you to transition between old and new arrangements as smoothly as possible. We understand that circumstances will change with time and that you deserve a fair alimony arrangement.
When is Alimony Modification Applicable?
To be granted a modification, you will need to prove that there has been a significant change in material circumstances. The changes of material circumstances that would constitute a reduction in spousal support include:
- Your income has diminished, causing measurable financial burden under the current order.
- Your ex-spouse has experienced an increase in income.
- Changes in lifestyle or financial status for you or your ex including receiving an inheritance, substantial debt reduction, etc. This is measured by a change in asset to debt ratio and can also include a modification based on your own circumstances outside of income.
- Your ex is now living with their significant other.
Your modification will require evidence to prove grounds of change. This may include proof that your income has decreased or that your ex-spouses has increased. This may be difficult if you ex is not forthcoming with the evidence. Our team can help you request income and expense declarations or can file subpoenas if needed, to gather evidence of a change in living circumstances that are not income based.
If your original order was created when spousal support was indefinite in payment duration, it is time to review the orders and change them to reflect changes in both of your situations. Don’t let the old system force you into paying forever when the times have changed.
Call for a Free Consultation: 949-368-2121
If you want to change your spousal support arrangement, we can help. Our team of Orange County Divorce Mediation Attorneys can help you determine if a spousal support reduction or termination is applicable. Let us review your original agreement, examine the steps your spouse has taken to be self-sufficient, and work with you to present a solid argument for modification.
Contact our team to discuss next steps at 949-368-2121.