In most cases, a spousal support order clearly states how long payments
will last. However, there are some circumstances in which a spousal support
order can end earlier. It is also possible to have a spousal support order
modified to accommodate any substantial changes in either party’s
circumstances, so be sure to consult with an attorney to discuss the details
of your situation.
Here are some circumstances in which spousal support payments usually end:
- When a receiving spouse lives with a new partner, the paying spouse can
request to have the spousal support order terminated. Keep in mind that
the relationship would have to be romantic and that a spousal support
order cannot be terminated simply because the receiving spouse has a roommate.
Basically, when a former spouse cohabitates with a new partner, it is
assumed that he or she is no longer shouldering the burden of all household
expenses and, as a result, no longer requires spousal support payments
to maintain a certain standard of living.
- When a receiving spouse remarries, spousal support is usually automatically
terminated, unlike in situations where a former spouse is cohabitating
with a new partner and the nature of that relationship needs to be proven first.
- When children no longer need a full-time at-home parent, it is possible
to request a spousal support order to be terminated since the receiving
party can now seek employment.
- When the paying spouse would endure serious hardships due to spousal support
payments, it is possible to have the order terminated. Generally, termination
is only considered when the paying party loses his or her job, retires,
or suffers a severe disability that renders him or her unable to continue
to work and make payments. If the hardship is only temporary, the spousal
support order might simply be temporarily modified.
- In the event that either party dies, spousal support will automatically
come to an end.
If you can no longer make spousal support payments and you and your former
spouse are on amicable terms, he or she might even agree to end your payments.
However, make sure you go through the proper legal channels and have a
judge officially sign off on it to ensure you are not on the hook for
missed payments later on if your ex-spouse has a change of heart regarding
your agreement.
Contact a Spousal Support Attorney Today!
Spousal support payments are not designed to last forever, so if you feel yours should
come to an end or be reduced, you need an attorney on your side to help
you navigate the process of requesting a termination or modification.
At The Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny, our legal team has over 30 years
of legal experience and is dedicated to pursuing the best possible results
on behalf of every client we serve.
Begin your case today and
contact our office at (713) 936-2300 to schedule a case review with one of our
knowledgeable spousal support attorneys.