Readers in Florham Park are likely aware that when a marriage comes to an end, a judge could order either the husband or wife to make monthly alimony payments to the other. In New Jersey and other states, a person could be ordered to pay alimony to their former spouse for life. In the event circumstances change, it can be difficult to alter lifetime orders, causing people to fall behind.
One man is reportedly in trouble with the law again for falling behind on his court ordered alimony payments. A family law judge recently ordered him to turn himself in to jail because he had become delinquent. While he has been admitted to the work release program so he will likely be able to keep his current job, it is unlikely he will be released until he pays $25,000 toward his debt.
The man claims his circumstances changed from the time his lifetime alimony payments were ordered to now, which has caused him to fall behind several times. This makes his eighth arrest for delinquency. Shortly after his divorce he claims to have lost his job, making it necessary to seek new employment. Although he is now working, he claims his monthly income is much less than it had been, making it difficult for him to keep up with the alimony payments that total $78,000 per year, as well as his child support payments.
No matter the reason why, falling behind on court ordered payments can be considered contempt of court and can lead to serious consequences. If you’re having difficulties making your court ordered payments and need a post-divorce modification, it may be beneficial to consult with an attorney to discuss your options. A lawyer can help you determine how to proceed and answer any questions you may have.
Source: Bloomberg, “Jail Becomes Home for Husband Stuck With Lifetime Alimony”, Sophia Pearson, August 26, 2013
