Do I Still Have to Pay Child or Spousal Support If I Lose My Job?

When you got divorced, the court might have required you to pay spousal support. Paying spousal support is an enforceable court order that requires one of the spouses to pay financial support to the other. The length of spousal support can vary depending on the factors of your marriage. During this period, a lot of changes can happen to both parties. For example, if you lose your job, it can be nearly impossible to make the ordered payments. Unfortunately, the loss of your job won’t automatically end your obligation to pay spousal support. The attorneys at Edgar & Dow put together the impact a job loss has on spousal support.

Lost Job & Spousal Support

Depending on the circumstances, you can reduce your spousal support obligations if you’ve lost your job. If you’re in this situation, you need to petition the court for a modification of the existing support order. You will need to show proof that you’ve lost your source of income.

If your former partner agrees with the modifications of the spousal support, it will be relatively easy to make the changes. However, you might still need to file a formal motion to modify the order in a brief hearing. In the hearing, you and your former spouse can voice support for the changes made.

Some of the things the court will consider:

• Whether the job loss was the intention or voluntary: the court will verify that you didn’t quit your job to avoid your spousal support obligations.
• If you have another job: if you have a second job, your spousal support agreement might not be modified.
• You have another source of income: if you have investments, rental income, or other sources of income, the court will investigate them.

Southern California Spousal Support Attorneys

The loss of your job can significantly affect your spousal support obligations; that’s why it’s essential to have guidance from an attorney. If your former spouse isn’t in agreement, the situation can become complicated. Protect your rights with the help of Edgar & Dow. Our spousal support attorneys understand that every client, family, and legal matter is unique and deserves a tailored strategy for dispute resolution. Let our team of experienced and skilled lawyers help you through this process.

Contact our Southern California spousal support lawyers today at (888) 251-9618!