When Disputes Arise Over Spousal Support in Fort Lauderdale During The Holidays

The holiday season brings joy to many Fort Lauderdale residents, but it can also mean additional financial pressure, especially for divorced couples dealing with spousal support.

Many people assume temporary lapses in support are “no big deal” during the holidays, but unpaid alimony still counts as arrears. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale alimony lawyer explains when to take action and your rights in enforcing a Broward County spousal support order.

Holiday-Related Issues That Can Affect Alimony in Fort Lauderdale

When Fort Lauderdale couples divorce, the Broward County Family Court may award spousal support, or alimony, to one of the parties. These payments can help you reenter the workforce and adjust to life post-divorce, but what happens when your spouse doesn’t pay?

This is a common problem, particularly during the holiday season. Holiday-related issues that can affect alimony in Fort Lauderdale:

• Missed or late payments: Your spouse may skip or reduce December payments due to gift expenses or travel.
• Overspending on luxury items: High holiday spending may signal financial mismanagement or bad faith in ongoing divorce negotiations.
• Pressure to modify support: Some spouses claim temporary hardship during the holidays to lower their payment amounts.
• New partners or relationships: The discovery of a new relationship can raise questions about cohabitation and future support obligations.
• Job changes or bonuses: Holiday bonuses and commissions can impact income calculations under Florida law.

Keep in mind that, regardless of the season, once a court order for alimony is in place, your spouse is required to follow it. Under Section 61.14 of the Florida Statutes, missed payments can lead to court penalties, including wage garnishment, interest accrual, and even contempt proceedings.

How to Protect Your Rights To Spousal Support in Fort Lauderdale and Avoid Holiday Conflict

If you are having trouble collecting spousal support in Broward County, stay calm and take practical steps rather than reacting emotionally. This includes:

• Document all missed or partial payments, including dates and amounts.
• Avoid informal deals and never agree verbally to reduce or delay payments without court approval.
• Request a financial review if your ex’s income or spending habits have changed significantly.
• File a motion for enforcement or contempt through the Broward County Family Court if payments stop entirely.
• Consult an experienced Fort Lauderdale alimony lawyer to explore modification, enforcement, or mediation options.

Getting legal help right away can help you address problems before they escalate, preserving both your finances and your peace of mind during the holidays.

To Protect Your Rights to Spousal Support Payments, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Alimony Lawyer

Disputes over spousal support payments in Fort Lauderdale often arise over the holidays. Whether your ex is missing payments, overspending, or trying to renegotiate alimony, get the trusted legal help you need at Vanessa L. Prieto Law Offices.

Our experienced Fort Lauderdale alimony lawyer helps clients resolve alimony disputes efficiently and effectively. From filing enforcement motions to negotiating solutions, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.

Sources:

browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.14.html