Alimony often becomes a part of life for many Connecticut residents when marriage ends. It aims to provide financial support and stability for the spouse who may need it post-divorce. An unexpected halt of these court-ordered payments naturally creates significant financial strain and uncertainty.
If you are struggling with unpaid alimony, it is essential to take legal action to secure the support your former spouse owes you.
Legal tools to help enforce your alimony agreement
Connecticut law offers several avenues to enforce alimony orders when an ex-spouse fails to pay, including:
- File a motion for contempt: This action brings the matter before a judge, asking them to hold your ex in contempt for violating the agreement.
- Seek wage garnishment: The court can order your former spouse’s employer to deduct alimony payments directly from their paycheck.
- Pursue property liens: The court may place a lien on your ex’s property to secure payment of overdue alimony.
- Bank account seizure: In some cases, the court may allow the seizure of funds from your former spouse’s bank accounts.
- Seek modification of the alimony order: If your ex’s financial situation has changed, you might need to adjust the alimony agreement.
To initiate these actions, you will need to file the appropriate paperwork with the court. This typically involves submitting a formal complaint detailing the missed payments and requesting specific enforcement measures.
Acting promptly when alimony payments stop is crucial. This can help prevent a significant buildup of unpaid support and demonstrate to the court that you are taking the matter seriously.
Pursuing these legal actions alone can be confusing
Many have successfully resolved unpaid alimony problems with the right professional assistance. Consider partnering with an attorney in Connecticut to address your legal challenges effectively. They can help you explore all your options and represent your best interests in the courtroom if needed.
