Spousal Support Attorney
Divorce is often a complex process of resolving various financial issues between divorcing spouses. While property division is often the most contentious of the financial matters that divorcing couples must resolve, it is also possible for some divorcing spouses to face ongoing financial arrangements with their soon-to-be exes.
Johnson O'Keefe has helped many clients through complex divorce cases, including those involving high-net-worth couples, contentious property division, and spousal support disputes. While many judges in equitable distribution states strive to ensure the fairest possible division of marital assets in the cases they oversee, spousal support is a necessary element of many divorces resolved in the court.
Schedule your consultation with Johnson O'Keefe today to get dedicated and experienced legal representation during the spousal support process.
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Individualized AttentionJust as each family is unique, so is each family legal matter. We always take the time to completely understand your situation so that we can tailor our advice and strategy accordingly.
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Highly RecommendedOur clients often take the time to write and thank us, not only for the results we have earned for them but also for the respect we’ve shown them.
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Supportive CounselWe never lose sight of the fact that divorce and other household conflicts can feel overwhelming. Our family lawyers will answer all of your questions to ease your burden in this difficult time.
Terminating Actions & Other Important Details Concerning Alimony
Every alimony order issued in the family courts will include clear terms and conditions regarding the paying spouse’s obligations. The order will dictate how much they need to pay, how often payments are due, and what they must do if they have a temporary issue preventing them from paying on time. Life can be unpredictable, and spousal support terms are typically flexible in allowing paying spouses to address unforeseen financial problems, but there are severe penalties for intentional violation of one’s spousal support obligations.
Recipients of alimony must also abide by specific terms and conditions. Alimony will continue until the order’s specified expiration date or the recipient completes a specified “terminating action.” This could be moving in with a new partner, marrying a new spouse, or experiencing a drastic improvement in their financial situation. Their alimony order will include terms for reporting any such changes, and they must always meet these obligations.
If an alimony recipient completes a terminating action, the paying spouse is no longer required to make spousal support payments. If the recipient intentionally concealed a terminating action to continue to collect alimony illegally, they can face criminal charges and owe civil damages to their ex. It is never worth violating any standing family court order, as doing so will invariably incur severe penalties.
Adjusting Spousal Support & Addressing Violations
If you are required to pay spousal support, it is essential that you fully understand the terms and conditions of your court order. Failure to pay in full and/or on time can lead to various penalties, from contempt of court to fines, wage garnishment, or even incarceration until owed support is repaid. In addition, if you encounter any unexpected change in your life that prevents you from meeting your support obligations, it is vital to address it as soon as possible with the help of an attorney. The family court system provides a modification system that allows for reasonable changes to standing family court orders.
The modification process is relatively straightforward, but it is still a good idea to have legal counsel you can trust to file your petition and prepare for your hearing. If you have recently lost your job due to forces beyond your control, suffered a severe injury resulting in disability, or experienced any other significant change in your life that impacts your ability to meet your support obligation, a spousal support attorney can help you compile a strong petition for modification. You may also need an attorney’s assistance to file contempt proceedings against your ex if you are owed spousal support and they have neglected to pay you correctly.
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I called Johnson Law Group extremely frustrated and stressed with the process of my custody case. From the consultation to every conversation after, Elizabeth went out of her way to make sure that i was comfortable with all the matters and decisions. I highly recommend Elizabeth and the whole Johnson O'Keefe team to anyone going through custody matters. Elizabeth, Cassidy, and Paola were amazing, and made me feel like i was a friend, not just a client. I would happily use them again if needed.- Patricia
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I HIGHLY recommend him and his legal team of paralegals and staff because I had a great experience with them. Myles is smart and savvy and fully committed to his clients as an attorney and mediator. He represented me in my divorce and when we went to court his talent and expertise rose to the top giving me confidence and inspiration during this hardship. I am so glad I had Johnson O'Keefe at my side! It made my divorce a little bit easier knowing this group had my back and worked hard to get me what was fair and equitable with the utmost care and concern for me as a client and most importantly as an individual.- M.J.
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Everyone was fast to return calls or emails. They explained everything thoroughly and so that I could understand the process. They worked with me every step of the way. I would highly recommend Johnson O'Keefe and if needed would go with them again. Thank you so much.- Robin
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They’re professional and supportive team work was beyond efficient and they got the job done in the least amount of time and with the least stress possible. They’re an amazing team to help with family needs and are always available to answer any questions or support. I would definitely recommend Myles and Genet Johnson for any family legal needs.- M.A.
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Find Legal Counsel Today
Time is a critical factor in any divorce. If you face complex financial issues in your impending dissolution, it’s vital to have legal counsel you can trust readily available to assist you. The sooner you connect with a trustworthy attorney, the more time they have to work on your case, helping you reach the best outcome possible.
Alimony can be a very contentious issue in any divorce, and Johnson O'Keefe has the professional resources and experience you need on your side to reach a favorable conclusion to your case.
Contact us today to schedule your case evaluation with a spousal support attorney.
