What Happens If Your Spouse Stops Paying Alimony In Fort Lauderdale?

In the aftermath of a Fort Lauderdale divorce, alimony can protect your financial security. These payments help in making the difficult adjustment to living alone, but what happens when your ex stops paying?

Unfortunately, some stop out of spite, while others claim they can’t afford it. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale alimony attorney explains how to protect your rights in this situation and your options in enforcing the order.

Enforcing Fort Lauderdale Alimony Payments Under Florida Law

Under the Florida Statutes (Section 61.08), alimony payments may be awarded in Fort Lauderdale divorce cases when one spouse makes less than the other or sacrificed their own career or education for the sake of the marriage. Alimony orders in Broward County carry the same legal weight as any other court judgment. That means if your ex stops paying, the court can take action against them. Enforcement efforts include:

• Garnishing their paycheck.
• Seizing tax refunds or other benefits.
• Suspension of their driver’s license or professional license.
• Using liens and seizure of bank accounts to collect the total amount owed, including interest.
• Contempt of court charges if they willfully refuse to pay, which can result in heavy fines, court costs, and a potential jail sentence.

Florida courts have broad authority in enforcing alimony orders. However, legal remedies work best when you act quickly and with the help of an experienced Fort Lauderdale alimony attorney.

How To Protect Your Rights If Your Ex Stops Paying Alimony In Fort Lauderdale

Alimony, or spousal support, can play a vital role in your divorce recovery. When payments stop, it’s important to respond quickly, but calmly.

When enforcing a Fort Lauderdale alimony order through the Broward County Family Court, ensuring everything is documented and maintaining accurate records is key. Take these steps to protect your rights to alimony payments:

• Keep a record of every missed payment, including dates, amounts, and communication attempts.
• Get legal help in filing a motion for contempt or enforcement.
• Request wage garnishment through your ex’s employer.
• Request interest on past due amounts and reimbursement for legal costs related to enforcing the order.

Avoid making any informal payment arrangements with your ex without getting court approval, as this can weaken your case later. If they truly suffered a reduction in income or a significant life change that makes alimony difficult to pay, they need to request a formal modification, not simply stop paying.

To Get The Financial Support You Are Owed, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Alimony Attorney

Once a Fort Lauderdale alimony order is in place, your ex is legally required to pay it. If they refuse or fall behind, there are legal options available.

At The Law Office of Sandra Bonfiglio, we help clients throughout Broward County enforce support orders through wage garnishments, asset seizure, and other legal options. To get the financial support you are entitled to, reach out and contact our office. Request a confidential consultation today with our experienced Fort Lauderdale alimony attorney.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.08.html

browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family