What are reasons for termination or modification of alimony in Oregon?

Alimony in Oregon is awarded as a way to provide financial support for the spouse so that he or she can maintain a similar lifestyle that they had during the marriage. The court may award what is known as transitional spousal support, which is used to cover the expenses of a custodial parent while they are trying to re-enter the work force. The judge may decide to give compensatory support to reimburse the spouse for putting their husband or wife through school while they were married.

Modifying a Spousal Support Order

The ex-spouse that is paying alimony in Oregon may seek to have this modified or terminated when the financial circumstances of either party substantially changes. Don’t risk being held in contempt of court by simply not making the payments. If you need to have the terms of your settlement modified, you should file a petition with the family court that handled the original divorce agreement.

Clearly outline why the order should be modified or terminated. Your reasons might include:

• Your financial circumstances have changed due to job loss or a decrease in current wages
• You’ve been forced to switch careers due to a downturn in the economy
• You have since remarried and have additional children to support
• Your ex-spouse has gotten remarried
• The ex-spouse has won the lottery, received an inheritance or obtained a high-paying job

In general, the laws in Oregon state that the party receiving spousal support should make a reasonable effort to become financially self-sufficient within ten years of the divorce.

Getting Legal Advice From An Oregon Divorce Attorney

If you are financially struggling to pay alimony in Oregon, the quicker you act the better. The courts can only modify a support order retroactively to the date when your motion was filed. Consider getting legal advice from a divorce attorney that is experienced with these matters. They know what types of evidence the court will need in order to grant your motion.