Where do I file a motion for unpaid alimony after divorce?

Full question:

My ex-husband and I were divorced in the state of NJ. Since we both have moved to different states_ He is living in AZ and I am living in Fl. Our Divorce Decree stated that he was to pay Alimony for 10 years from the date of the final divorce March 1, 2002. My alimony would have expired March 1st 2012. In doing so I waived any claim to permanent alimony beyond the ten years. May 2011 was the last payment he made . He was to pay 150.00 a week. My question is do I file a motion to the courts in the state that he lives or where I live? This happened once with the medical and college that he was ordered to pay. I found a lawyer to take my case in California where he lived and paid 4,000.00 dollars and then my ex moved and nothing could be done. I don't have the money to pay a lawyer again as I have two of our children in school. Please help me.

  • Category: Contempt
  • Date:
  • State: Florida

Answer:

If a court order isn’t followed, you can file a petition for contempt in the court that issued the order. This petition requests the court to enforce the order and may ask for compensation for losses due to the noncompliance. The court retains the authority to enforce its orders, including holding the noncomplying party in contempt.

In New Jersey, to find someone in contempt, you may file a Petition for Rule to Show Cause. If your ex-husband fails to make the required payments, you can file a motion for contempt, and the court will determine the outcome based on the facts and documents you provide. You may also prepare a Judgment on Rule for Contempt for the judge to sign, which can streamline the process. Be sure to file a certificate of service along with your petition to prove that it was served to your ex-husband.

Note that a divorce decree can sometimes be modified if both parties agree or if significant changes in circumstances occur. However, property division is typically not modifiable by the court.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Yes, it matters which state you file for divorce in because each state has its own laws regarding divorce, including residency requirements, grounds for divorce, and division of assets. Generally, you should file in the state where either spouse resides. This ensures that the court has jurisdiction over the case and can enforce its orders.