When An Ex Loses A Job: How Loss of Income Impacts Fort Lauderdale Alimony Payments

Alimony payments can go a long way towards covering rent, groceries, or other costs after a divorce in Fort Lauderdale, but what happens if your former spouse loses their job?

Changes in employment can create real financial pressure. However, once an alimony order is in place, the amount must be paid. Our Fort Lauderdale alimony lawyer explains how the court deals with this difficult situation and what you can do to protect your rights and financial security throughout the process.

How Job Losses Impact Fort Lauderdale Alimony Payments

Section 61.08 of the Florida Statutes addresses alimony, or spousal support, in a Fort Lauderdale divorce. The court may order it if one spouse makes a lot less than the other or sacrificed their own career to support the marriage.

These payments help protect your financial security, but job losses can quickly create serious problems. The Broward County Family Court may modify alimony payments in the event of changes in income (or expenses). However, not every job loss automatically qualifies. The court will look at factors such as:

• The reason for the job loss: Was it voluntary, or due to layoffs, illness, or economic downturn?
• Efforts to find new employment: Judges expect proof that the person is actively seeking work.
• Duration of unemployment: Temporary job gaps rarely justify major modifications.
• Current financial resources: Savings, new income sources, or shared expenses may affect the court’s decision.
• The types of alimony awarded: Rehabilitative, durational, and bridge the gap alimony each follow different rules.

Broward County judges consider whether the change is substantial, unanticipated, and permanent enough to justify altering a prior court order.

What To Do If Your Ex Stops Making Fort Lauderdale Alimony Payments

If you were awarded alimony in a Fort Lauderdale divorce but have since stopped, or your ex claims they can’t afford to continue paying the full amount, don’t panic. Instead, take these steps to protect your rights:

• Document missed payments: Keep detailed records of dates, amounts, and communication attempts.
• Request a court hearing: The judge can require financial documentation and determine whether modification is justified.
• Avoid side agreements: Informal deals outside of court can backfire if not approved by a judge.
• Seek temporary relief: If the non-paying spouse is genuinely struggling, the court may issue temporary adjustments.

Alimony often plays a significant role in divorce recovery. If your ex has stopped making payments, get legal help with modifications and enforcement efforts.

To Protect Your Financial Security, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Alimony Lawyer Today

Alimony payments help in regaining financial security after a divorce in Fort Lauderdale. Unfortunately, job losses can put these payments at risk.

At Vanessa L. Prieto Law Offices, we represent you in court, negotiate payments, and take enforcement efforts to protect your financial security. To get the total amount of alimony you are entitled to, contact our office. For caring, comprehensive legal service, request a consultation with our experienced Fort Lauderdale alimony attorney today.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.08.html

browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family