Knowledgeable Spousal Support Modification Lawyers Addressing Maintenance in Wheaton, IL
Many family law court orders may be modified if there is a valid reason for the change. Spousal support is one of the orders that may be modified in certain circumstances. Whether spousal support was granted as temporary, rehabilitative, or long-term maintenance, it may be possible to modify the order. It is advisable to work with an attorney if you wish to modify spousal support, because the burden lies with you to prove that the change is necessary.
The Wheaton spousal support modification attorneys at Musielak & Rosinski LLC assist Illinois residents who are seeking to modify spousal support or who are looking to put other types of post-divorce modifications in place. We are experienced Illinois divorce lawyers who have the financial knowledge to advocate for a reduction or increase in spousal support. Our seasoned attorneys can provide representation for those who are seeking or contesting a modification.
Reasons You Can Modify Spousal Support Orders
Modification of a spousal support award is possible if one person's financial situation changes. The change must be substantial enough to warrant either a reduction or increase in payments. Some reasons you may request a modification of maintenance may include:
- A spouse losing a job or dealing with another debilitating loss
- A spouse getting a higher-paying job
- A change in the health of one spouse
Until the court approves a modification, the orders that are in place must be followed. A spouse will be required to continue making payments as ordered, and any past-due amounts must be paid off in full. However, if the court approves a modification, the changes may be retroactive to the date that the petition for modification was filed. Because of this, it is crucial to file a modification request as soon as possible after experiencing changes in circumstances.
Enforcement of Spousal Maintenance Orders
If you are not receiving court-ordered spousal support payments, we can assist you in petitioning the court for an order of enforcement. Various remedies may be available to satisfy unpaid spousal support amounts, including wage garnishment. If necessary, we can ask the court to hold your former spouse in contempt for his or her failure to comply with the court's orders. We also represent individuals who have had unjust enforcement actions taken against them and need to defend against such proceedings.
When Can You Terminate Alimony in Illinois?
Maintenance in Illinois can be terminated under several circumstances outlined by law. The death of either spouse automatically ends the obligation, as does the remarriage of the spouse receiving support. Living with a new romantic partner on a continuing basis can also serve as grounds for termination, even without a formal remarriage, since Illinois law treats these situations similarly when it comes to ongoing support.
Courts review each request individually, considering whether the change was reasonably foreseeable and whether the receiving spouse still has a genuine need for continued payments. If your original agreement or court order set a specific end date, alimony typically terminates automatically once that date arrives, without requiring a separate court filing. Reviewing the exact language of your order can help clarify whether any additional steps are needed to formally close out the obligation.
Contact Our DuPage County Spousal Support Modification Lawyers
Have questions about a court order for spousal maintenance? Please call our office at 630-344-6525 or contact our Wheaton, Illinois spousal support modification attorneys to schedule a free initial consultation and learn more about how we can assist with the modification of spousal maintenance orders. We have offices conveniently located in DuPage County and Kendall County.