For some individuals, paying alimony can become a difficult task when some substantial change occurs that alters their ability to pay. When this happens, individuals may fall behind on their payments and get into legal and financial trouble as a result.
In some cases, though, individuals can petition to have their alimony payments modified, which either can increase or decrease the amount of alimony to be paid. More than likely, though, the individual paying will be the one to file a petition for modification.
To have his or her request for modification granted, an individual will need to prove that a change in circumstances has occurred. More importantly, this change will have to be significant. This can mean that the payer is no longer able to pay, or the payee no longer needs it.
Examples of significant changes in circumstances are the payer losing his or her source of income, the payee gaining a significant source of income, or the payee cohabitating with another individual who provides for him or her.
These changes are significant when they happen in the long term. When they are only short term changes, then there are likely no grounds for an alimony modification.
Since obtaining an alimony modification may be a difficult task, individuals are advised to seek experienced legal help from an experienced divorce lawyer.
It is important to keep in mind that having a lawyer does not guarantee a victory. However, by securing the assistance of someone who has experience helping individuals modify their alimony payments, you greatly increase your chances of securing a favorable outcome.
If you are struggling to keep up with alimony payments because of a significant change in circumstances, discuss your legal rights and options with the Fort Lauderdale alimony modification attorneys of Klein & Associates today.
James Witherspoon
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