What Can I Do If My Ex Stops Paying Child Support or Alimony?
This is a common question we’re asked. When a divorce happens, there are many cases in which one spouse has to pay alimony to the other spouse. In situations involving a child or children, one parent is often ordered by the court to pay child support, even in situations in which the parents may have not been married. The goal of alimony and child support is to ensure that the change in lifestyle brought about by the divorce does not negatively affect the quality of living of the spouse and/or children. Even with a court order requiring one party to alimony or child support, in many situations, an ex stops paying, leaving the other party and the children in a dire financial state situation.
Notify the Court of Unreceived Alimony or Child Support
What happens when you are not getting paid the alimony or child support that is owed to you? You first have to notify the court. This lets the court know the ex is no longer paying what was ordered by the court. Your lawyer can help to file the necessary paperwork that is needed.
Once the court gets this information, there are a couple of things the court can do:
1. The court may freeze the bank account of the person not paying and direct deposit what is owed and monthly amounts thereafter into the account of the other party
2. The court can deduct the person’s wages straight from their check and deposit this into the other party’s account
3. The court may order jail time in situations if it is clear that the ex is simply not paying, even though he/she does have the ability to pay
The court can also revoke a person’s driver’s license, hunting license or fishing license for not paying alimony or child support.
If you have an ex-spouse or partner who has stopped paying child support or alimony, the court can step in and take control of the case. You should not remain quiet and hope for the best. If your ex-spouse or partner is not paying now, and does not have a good reason for not paying, then chances are he or she is not going to pay in the future. Having a good lawyer on your side is the only way to approach these types of cases.
For those who are located in Jacksonville, Florida, Wendy Norman, is a family attorney working with all matters related to divorce, family, child support and alimony. She will work hard for you to ensure your case is handled properly and that you receive the support you deserve.
I live in St augustine but got my divorce in Ft Lauderdale. He is in arrears in the alimony. Where do I start. I am disabled & travel would be a problem if I have to go to court. Anything you suggest would be appreciated.
Hi Charlotte,
I do not practice in South Florida, so would recommend you contact an attorney in Ft. Lauderdale. You may be able to attend hearings by phone, under the circumstances. An attorney familiar with the judges and courts in Broward County would be able to assist you. Best of luck, and thank you for contacting Norman Law.