Compassionate Worcester Alimony Attorney In Massachusetts
Alimony can affect your financial stability long after a divorce is finalized. Therefore, it is crucial to work with a Worcester alimony attorney. They can help clients understand how Massachusetts support orders may be enforced or changed when circumstances no longer match the original judgment.
I am attorney Barbara J. Katzenberg, and at Barbara J. Katzenberg, Attorney at Law, I have been representing clients in Worcester County, Massachusetts, for the past 36 years. My background in litigation, mediation, conciliation, early childhood development and social work helps me consider the financial issues alongside the effect conflict may have on a family.
Common Reasons For Modification Of Alimony
An alimony order is not always permanent. A Massachusetts court may review an order when a significant development affects one party’s ability to pay or the other party’s continuing need for support. Possible reasons for requesting a modification may include:
- A substantial income change
- Involuntary job loss
- Retirement
- Remarriage or cohabitation
- A change in financial need
- The divorce agreement’s language
The existing order remains effective unless the court changes it. I can review the judgment and current circumstances before helping you determine the next appropriate course of action.
Receiving Alimony In Massachusetts Has Become More Complex
Alimony, also known as spousal support, may or may not be required as part of an overall divorce settlement. In 2012, Massachusetts enacted the Alimony Reform Act of 2011, which provides specific guidelines as to the amount and duration of alimony depending upon the length of the marriage and the age of retirement for the paying spouse. The Alimony Reform Act changed how parties negotiated their marital separation agreements and gave way to modifications and litigation for already existing obligations.
The recent Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017 complicated matters somewhat by drastically changing tax law for alimony payments. For divorce decrees dated Jan. 1, 2019, or later, alimony payments are no longer deductible for the payer, and the payee may not pay taxes on the payments received. Many couples are finding that they need the help of tax experts to review their situation.
As you can see, changes in the law can have a big effect on your divorce decree or negotiated settlement. As an attorney with over 30 years of experience, I can evaluate your situation and recommend the right course of action for you. As your attorney, I can also deal with post-divorce actions as they relate to modifications and contempt actions of current alimony awards.
How Do Contempt Actions Work In Relation To Alimony In Massachusetts?
When someone does not follow an alimony order, the recipient may file a complaint for contempt in the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court. The filing party must establish that a clear order existed and that the other person failed to comply.
The court may examine payment records, income information and the reasons for nonpayment. When a violation is found, the judge may order overdue support to be paid and use additional enforcement measures.
An inability to pay may be relevant, but stopping payments without first securing a modification can lead to serious legal consequences.
Speak With A Worcester Alimony Lawyer
Alimony disputes require close attention to the original judgment and present financial circumstances. At Barbara J. Katzenberg, Attorney at Law, in Worcester County, Massachusetts, I help clients pursue workable outcomes through mediation or conciliation while remaining prepared for litigation when necessary.
Dial 508-471-3281 or send me a message through my contact form to schedule an appointment.