When Utah family courts hand down a divorce settlement, both parties are required to comply with all terms and conditions. But life can sometimes get a little complicated. The loss of a job, relocation or huge medical bills can often get in the way of honoring a divorce decree. Some of the most complex components of divorce settlements include child support and alimony. Changing these conditions is not always easy. Fortunately, there are solutions. It begins with seeking representation from an experienced and knowledgeable Salt Lake City divorce modifications attorney.
What Is Alimony?
Alimony is a legal remedy handed down by family courts to help a financially weaker spouse to help them get back on their feet and maintain the same level of lifestyle during the marriage. There are several factors Utah family courts take into consideration when determining spousal support. They include:
- Income and financial resources of both parties
- Age
- The emotional and physical condition of each spouse
- The standard of living of both parties during the marriage
- Each spouse’s contribution to the marriage
- Length of the marriage
- How to Modify Alimony in Utah
Few things in life are guaranteed. Sooner or later there are going to be significant changes. Are you prepared to handle those changes. These lifestyle changes don’t just affect the person who pays spousal support, it also affects the recipient and their children. The first step towards changing your divorce decree is to file a petition with the court. A well organized and concise petition prepared by a Salt Lake City divorce modifications attorney is the most effective method to achieve your goals. Here are some of the valid reasons to modify your alimony.
- Remarriage: Many divorced people in Utah will tie the knot again. Unless both former spouses have agreed to continue spousal support, the dependent spouse will have their alimony terminated upon remarriage.
- Agreement: In many cases, divorced couples often come to a mutual agreement on alimony. Among the most common is stopping spousal support after retirement.
- Cohabitation: Utah family law requires the dependent spouse to stop receiving alimony if they are living romantically with another partner. Because most couples who live together are already supporting each other, spousal support payments may be abused and used to support someone other than the dependent party.
- Employment: The loss of a job affects both the paying spouse and the dependent spouse. If the dependent party has lost a job, they may be entitled to receive increased alimony.
A Salt Lake City Divorce Modifications Attorney Can Help
Salt Lake City is the second largest city in Utah. There are countless divorced people who either pay or receive spousal support. Should there be a major change in your life or with your former spouse, a divorce modification may be needed. For nearly two decades, Salt Lake City divorce attorney Emy A. Cordano has helped many men and women with some of the most complicated family law issues. She and her legal staff work diligently both in the courtroom and behind the scenes to help place each client in the best position to succeed. If you are seeking an alimony modification, contact her Salt Lake City law office today and schedule a consultation to discuss your case.