Can Alimony Change and Be Reduced?
According to the CDC, the divorce rate in America is 2.3 per 1,000 population.
While many people are going through divorces and navigating finances, the process can feel isolating and overwhelming. It’s common for people to have questions such as “can alimony change after divorce” and “what happens if I lose my job and can’t pay alimony.”
If you live in New Jersey and any of these questions have crossed your mind, this article is for you. We are going to talk about the rules and laws surrounding alimony payments. Read on, so you’re prepared financially.
Losing A Job
Losing a job is never easy, and it can cause a lot of stress and then having to worry about paying alimony can make it an even more difficult situation. There are times when your job isn’t in your control. The market may crash, your company may be bought out by someone else, or even shut down completely.
If this happens, you may not be able to afford the same amount of alimony payments. You’ll have to discuss alimony reduction with a judge in New Jersey.
A judge is going to look at several factors. The first is if you lost your job due to a medical disability or injury. They will also consider how long you’ve been out of work and if you’ve been actively searching for a new one. A judge will also ask if your former employer offered any kind of severance package.
The answer to “can alimony be reduced” is yes; however, you must prove to a judge that you qualify for a reduction. This can be challenging to do, and hiring a lawyer who knows the laws can help.
Getting Fired and Quitting
Some circumstances won’t qualify you for a reduction. If you get fired for committing a crime or gross negligence, likely, you won’t receive a lower alimony.
The same goes if you quit. This doesn’t count as an unforeseen circumstance, so you’ll be required to continue paying.
Ex’s Housing Situation Changes
Now you may wonder, “can alimony change after divorce if my ex moves in with someone.” If your ex-spouse remarries, you will typically not be required to pay alimony anymore. However, the situation becomes a little more complicated if your ex moves in with someone else.
Your alimony payments may be reduced or terminated if the courts determine your ex-spouse has intertwined their finances with another person. For example, if they open a joint bank account or share living expenses with someone else. Talking to a divorce lawyer is your best option, as they will know which information is relevant and which is not.
Can Alimony Change After Divorce
You don’t have to do it alone if you’re going through a divorce. Hiring a professional can ensure you get a fair deal. Our team can help you with the question, “can alimony change after divorce” and help you stay financially safe.
The knowledgeable, experienced and passionate team of divorce attorneys at Dalena & Bosch have worked with many people who are going through a tough divorce; therefore, we can help you too. Contact us here, so we can advise you best regarding your divorce, child custody, alimony and any other family law issues you are facing.