How to Reduce Alimony
You can reduce the amount of alimony you are paying if you have a certain percentage of financial change. Different states have different rules. You must check into your own state’s rules regarding alimony changes. Yet, it is possible to reduce alimony! Here's how to do just that.
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Instructions
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Contact an attorney for a consultation. Explain your circumstances to the attorney. You should set consultations with at least three different attorneys. Do not choose the first attorney you consult with.
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File a petition for Downward Modification of Alimony. Be sure that your circumstances show an unforeseen change in circumstances. You cannot quit your job, and expect to be awarded a downward modification of alimony. You must have been laid off. Be careful with getting fired. You could be accused of getting fired “on purpose” so that you could get a reduction in alimony.
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Complete and file a family law financial affidavit. Make sure you fill this out completely.
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Comply with mandatory disclosure rules for your state. You must provide bank statements, credit card statements, pay stubs, and any other proof of income. You may want to include the notice of your lay-off, if you have one. Check with your attorney or your state’s minimum mandatory disclosure rules regarding the rest of the documents.
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Wait for an answer from your ex-spouse. If he or she retained an attorney, the attorney will file an answer on his or her behalf. Your ex-spouse will also need to complete a financial affidavit and comply with mandatory disclosure.
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Set mediation. If your state requires mediation before you go to court, you must set mediation. If your state does not require mediation, you may request mediation. If you can settle the matter amicably between the two of you, it will save you quite a bit in attorney’s fees. If you cannot come to an agreement, your case will then be set for trial.
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Tips & Warnings
You can also file for a downward modification if your spouse has received a large increase in his or her pay.
In some states, if your spouse remarries someone, you may be entitled to an abatement of alimony.
This information is not to be construed as legal advice. This article is not written by an attorney. You should seek the help of an attorney.
It is strongly suggested that you retain an attorney to help you with a downward modification of alimony. Winning a request for a downward modification of alimony is difficult at best, especially if your spouse's financial circumstances have not changed.
