If you miss an alimony payment, it can come with serious legal consequences. Alimony—also called spousal support—is often ordered as part of a divorce decree in Oklahoma. Once the court orders you to make alimony payments, those payments are legally enforceable. Whether you’re paying or receiving alimony, it’s important to understand what happens when payments aren’t made and what options exist to enforce or modify the order.
Alimony Is a Court Order
In Oklahoma, alimony is based on what the judge believes is equitable given the circumstances of the marriage. If the court orders one spouse to pay alimony, that order is legally binding. Failing to make payments on time is a violation of that court order.
Even if you fall behind for legitimate reasons—such as job loss or illness—you must take action quickly. Ignoring the problem can lead to further penalties.
Legal Consequences of Missing an Alimony Payment
If you miss an alimony payment in Oklahoma, the recipient spouse has several enforcement tools available under state law. These may include:
1. Contempt of Court
The most common enforcement method is filing a contempt action. This means the court may find you in willful violation of its order. If the court agrees, you could face:
- Fines
- Wage garnishment
- Bank account levies
- Jail time in serious cases
2. Income Assignment
The court can issue an income assignment (similar to wage garnishment), requiring your employer to withhold alimony payments directly from your paycheck and send them to the receiving spouse.
3. Lien on Property
In some cases, a lien can be placed on your property or assets until the overdue amount is paid.
Is It Possible To Modify Alimony?
If your financial situation changes significantly, Oklahoma law allows you to request a modification of the alimony order. The court may reduce or terminate the payment amount if you can show:
- Loss of income or employment
- Disability or health issues
- Retirement
- A significant change in the recipient’s financial needs
However, you must request this before falling behind—you cannot modify alimony retroactively. The court will not forgive missed payments unless there is a formal modification order in place.
What If You’re Owed Alimony?
If you are the receiving spouse and your ex fails to pay alimony, you can take enforcement action through the courts. A family law attorney can help you file for contempt, obtain a judgment for the unpaid amount, or pursue wage garnishment.
Time limits may apply, so don’t wait too long to enforce your rights.
Tulsa Alimony Attorneys
Whether you’ve missed an alimony payment or are trying to collect one, it’s important to act quickly and protect your rights. We help clients throughout Oklahoma navigate enforcement, modification, and contempt actions in family court. Contact us today at Tulsa Divorce Attorneys & Associates by calling 539-302-0303 or contact us online.