Divorce and Alimony Modification: What You Need to Know

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When you get divorced, one topic that may come up is alimony. Some parties in a divorce may be interested in receiving alimony, especially if there is a significant earnings differential in the marriage. One thing to keep in mind is that alimony is not set in stone once you get divorced. Whether you pay alimony or receive it, the alimony can be modified in certain situations. If you want to know more about alimony modifications and improve your chance for the modification to go your way, the following tips may be helpful:

Avoid Hostility

As you approach an alimony modification, it is critical that you do so in a cordial way that does not elicit hostility. The process of dissolving a marriage is already stressful enough. Once you have moved on and lived your life, the last thing you want to do is reintroduce those negative feelings. No matter your position on the alimony modification, try to remain as calm and cordial as possible. The moment you begin acting in a hostile manner, you will likely receive that same behavior in return. Hostility does not make the process move any faster or encourage a certain result one way or another.

When you have been married to someone, you more than likely know which buttons to push to sting them. This is best avoided in an alimony modification.

Do Not Set a Deadline

Although courts typically have rules regarding dates and deadlines, you cannot have a good outcome if you have self-imposed deadlines set against your former spouse when it comes to alimony. If you try to set a deadline of your own against your former spouse, you are more likely to get push-back or a lack of action on their part. This not only causes delays but could possibly pose problems for the alimony modifications. Let your attorneys discuss dates and deadlines to avoid any problems.

Keep Calm During Negotiations

You and your attorney will work together to help you get the best outcome. Your former spouse's attorney will be doing the same thing for them. So, you likely will receive an initial proposal during the modification that you do not agree with, or feel is unfair. Keep your cool during this phase. This is just a modification, and nothing is set in stone until a judge makes a ruling. Continue with the negotiation until you both reach an agreement you can live with.

Reach out to a divorce lawyer to find out more.


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