Modifying Spousal Maintenance in Seattle
If you're having trouble keeping up with your bills after getting a divorce, it may be possible to petition the court for an increase of your spousal support. Issues involving alimony can be complex, so finding out whether it may be altered requires an understanding of Washington family law.
Sometimes it's not possible to immediately ascertain whether spousal support modification is possible because, according to Washington law, an alimony order may only be changed when one party experiences a "significant change in circumstances."
The first step toward discovering whether an alimony modification is possible is to speak with one of our Seattle spousal support modification lawyers so they can review your financial situation. This area of the law is often unclear at first, but a "significant change in circumstances" may include losing your primary source of income or experiencing a debilitating health issue. Consult one of our qualified King County family law attorneys to find out more information about your situation. We are experienced with complex alimony modification cases, and are fully capable of offering you reliable assistance.
Our Seattle spousal support and alimony lawyers understand that quick relief is often required when your financial situation turns bleak. Seeking a modification of your alimony in Washington Family Court is often a complicated and lengthy process, so every passing moment ends up costing you even more. After a certain amount of time has passed, there is no way to reduce the amount of money that you owe, which means that every support modification delay costs you money that you already don't have.
Our Washington State family law attorneys are eager to help you find a working solution to alimony issues, so get help presenting your argument to the Washington Court.
Explaining the Spousal Support Modification ProcessIn you intend on petitioning the court for a modification in spousal support, there are specific steps you will need to take. After filling out all necessary forms, you will have to file them with copies in family law court. Next, they will be served to your ex-spouse. You won't have to appear before a judge in most cases because the trial is by affidavit, which means it's entirely in writing.
You will need to show proof of income in the form of tax returns for the previous 2 years, payments stubs for the last 6 months, and your personal banking records. If you and your ex-spouse agree to the modification, the court can approve the change without a hearing. If it's contested, then a decision will be rendered by a judge. This process usually takes about four months.
If you are currently in a financial crisis, you need relief as soon as you can get it. Our Seattle alimony lawyers urge you to act quickly, because money problems can quickly spiral out of control and modifications take time. If you already owe back child support, there is nothing you can do to erase that obligation, so don't let another minute slip away.
Our Seattle family law lawyers will work hard to help you find a solution to your financial troubles. A modification of alimony isn't always possible, but it may just be the solution you've been looking for.
Speak With One Of Our Seattle Divorce Lawyers Today And Start Getting AnswersIf you're curious whether altering the amount of your support modification is possible, please contact one of our Seattle spousal support modification attorneys today for a free consultation. Start getting some answers based on more than five decades of combined legal experience from our Washington family law attorneys. We have represented hundreds of divorce clients seeking financial relief, and we will put our knowledge of the law to work for you.
Schedule an appointment by contacting the Washington Family Law Group by phone, or fill out our online form, and you can talk to one of our experienced Seattle spousal support modification lawyers within 24 hours. The information they provide will be based on Washington law and will help you make informed decisions concerning your legal options. If you decide to retain one of our Seattle spousal support and alimony lawyers, they will help you petition the family court to reduce your current level of support.
If you've fallen behind on bills and are seeking a solution to unexpected financial distress, contact one of our Seattle family law lawyers today and get professional legal guidance from attorneys who will fight to resolve your case.