Alimony, or spousal support, addresses financial imbalances post-divorce by supporting the lower-earning spouse.. Factors including each spouse’s income, the duration of the marriage and the recipient’s needs determine the amount and duration of alimony. In Michigan, there are valid grounds to seek adjustments, be it an increase or decrease in alimony payments.
Both spouses can seek modifications under certain circumstances. You will need to assess evolving circumstances, gather relevant evidence and present a clear case to the court.
Significant financial changes
A substantial shift in the financial landscape is a valid reason to request an alimony modification. High earners may face income fluctuations due to factors like job loss, salary cuts or unforeseen economic challenges.
The reverse is also true. The payor may get a substantial raise or see tremendous earnings in the stock market. Whether you request an increase or decrease, you will need to prove a significant change in financial circumstances when seeking modification.
Recipient’s enhanced financial status
If the alimony recipient achieves financial independence or experiences an uplift in their financial situation, it may justify a decrease in alimony. Michigan courts consider the evolving financial status of the recipient to ensure ongoing support aligns with fairness and necessity.
Retirement
Approaching retirement can warrant an alimony adjustment. The prospect of reduced earnings justifies seeking modification to reflect the changed financial circumstances during this phase of life.
Cohabitation impact
Changes in living arrangements, especially cohabitation with a new partner, may influence the financial needs of the alimony recipient. High earners might request a decrease, arguing that shared living expenses diminish the recipient’s reliance on alimony.
Duration of alimony
Michigan often outlines a predetermined duration for alimony awards. Either spouse may seek a change based on the end of the agreed-upon alimony term.
Health-related changes
Health-related issues impacting the paying spouse’s earning capacity are valid grounds for an alimony adjustment. Those facing health challenges that hinder their ability to maintain previous income levels may seek modification to align with their diminished earning capacity.
Initial alimony agreement
Before requesting an alimony adjustment, refer to your legal paperwork outlining factors specific to your situation.
You can ask courts to modify the initial terms, but you will need to present a compelling case for it to be successful.
