This is the next post in my series on steps which a Las Vegas father should take immediately after losing their job. My last article discussed filing for a child support modification after a job loss. It is important to understand that you remain obligated to pay your Court Ordered child support after your employment situation changes. Failing to pay that support can result in your being found in contempt of court. It is, therefore, suggested that you contact a fathers’ rights attorney immediately after your employment situation changes. In this post I will discuss the immediate request of a spousal support Order. If you require assistance then call my office today to speak with a lawyer.
I have previously discussed the issue of spousal support in Las Vegas divorces. It is important to understand that alimony can be “modifiable” and “non-modifiable.” If one entered into an agreement to pay non-modifiable spousal support, at the time of their divorce, then they will not be able to lower their payments in the event of job loss. Failing to pay those Court Ordered amounts can result in one being held in contempt. If one’s alimony obligations are modifiable then the situation is different. A person in such a situation may file a Motion with the Court asking that their monthly payment be reduced given the situation. How the Court will rule on such a request will always depend on the specific facts of the case.
The first step in the modification process is to file a Motion along with a Financial Disclosure Form. The Court will schedule a hearing date at the time the Motion is filed. How the Court will view such issues depends on several variables. If the paying party’s reduction of income is temporary in nature then the Court may give them a short-term reduction in their payment obligations. The Court may also schedule a “status check” to determine the state of the paying party’s income situation. If the paying party’s future income is more uncertain then the Court is more likely to make a modification permanent.
If you are a Las Vegas father who has been ordered to pay alimony then it is crucial that you speak to an attorney immediately after you lose your job. Immediately filing a Motion with the Court can help you to avoid issues of contempt as well as future problems. I devote my practice to the handling of family law matters and am experienced in handling such issues. Contact my office today to schedule an initial consultation.