Navigating Child Support and Alimony Modifications Wisely
Hi, my name is Clint Hastings. I’m a Tulsa alimony attorney here in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and I focus on fathers’ rights.
Today I’m going to answer the question: What do I do if I’ve lost my job? Do I still owe alimony and child support even though I’m making no income?
File a Motion to Modify
Well, the answer depends on your specific situation, but here’s the most important thing — you must file a motion with the court to modify your child support or alimony. You need to notify the court of your change in circumstances if you want any relief. You cannot just assume you’re off the hook because you lost your job. There’s nothing in the statute that says that.
So, you file a motion explaining what happened — when you lost your job, why it happened, and how long you expect to be without income. Your wife may contest it and claim you lost your job on purpose, or that you could take another position but don’t want to because it pays less. She might argue that you’re voluntarily underemployed and should still be held accountable for at least that level of income.
Court Decision and Explanation
Ultimately, it’s up to the judge. The court may say that, temporarily, you won’t owe child support or alimony, or they might require you to make up those payments later. It all depends on the reason for your unemployment and how credible your explanation is.
If the court finds that you quit your job intentionally — for example, because you didn’t want to pay support and decided to travel on an inheritance — that’s not going to go over well. You’ll need to justify your circumstances and show good faith.
Consult with an Attorney
I’m Tulsa men’s child support modifications attorney Clint Hastings. Review our website for more information, and if you need a consultation, reach out to us at 918-962-0900. We’ll be glad to help.
