If you received spousal support in your divorce agreement, you might be wondering if the court has the jurisdiction to terminate it. They might be able to do exactly that in some cases. Here’s what you should understand and how to determine if your post-divorce economic stability is in jeopardy.

Spousal Support Is Rarely Permanent 

In almost all cases, spousal support isn’t supposed to last forever. Most judges order it for a period of time following the divorce to give the lesser-earning spouse a chance to get a new job and gain financial independence. Usually, when support ends, it’s simply because the order “timed out,” so to speak. 

Support Can Be Stopped Early 

A judge may order the pause or cessation of alimony in the following circumstances: 

• One spouse is deceased. If either spouse dies, support payments automatically end. 
• The support recipient cohabitates or is married to another person. If you reside with someone who can share living expenses, particularly if you are married to them, your ex is likely to be released from their financial support obligations.
• The support recipient is now able to financially support themselves. A payer may be able to successfully have alimony payments terminated if the receiver begins earning enough income to support themselves sooner than expected.
• The support payor cannot reasonably make payments. If a payer is unable to satisfy their alimony responsibilities for a valid reason, such as being terminated from their job or getting arrested and detained, alimony will usually be deferred until the payer’s circumstances change. 
• The support recipient never made an effort to obtain training or vocational rehabilitation. Spousal support recipients are required to make a sincere effort to find work that will allow them to live autonomously. A judge may contemplate revoking the payer’s support obligation if the receiver has mismanaged financial aid without putting any effort into changing their circumstances.

Get Help With Spousal Support Cases in Brooklyn Today 

Mary Katherine Brown is a seasoned New York family law attorney recently featured in Today and is top rated on Avvo.com. She has the skills and expertise to help you navigate complex spousal support and alimony cases, especially in high net worth divorces. Attorney Brown is dedicated to creating custom, thoughtful solutions for Brooklyn families that best fit each of their unique needs. Contact Attorney Brown today for a consultation to discuss your case by calling (718) 878-6886.