Alimony

[tiredofex]

I was just wanting to find out if alimony can be considered a debt. Thanks for your help and have a blessed day.

[m_t]

It may be state-specific. However, as far as I know, it is not generally considered a debt in terms of being dischargeable in a bankruptcy.

[tiredofex]

Thanks.  The divorce papers say that each party shall hold the other party harmless should they fail to pay any debt they are herein required to pay.  I was wondering if alimony would be considered a debt under this clause.

[m_t]

Thanks.  The divorce papers say that each party shall hold the other party harmless should they fail to pay any debt they are herein required to pay.  I was wondering if alimony would be considered a debt under this clause.

LOL No. Not paying alimony can and likely will lead to a contempt finding. While the payor may not end up in jail for not payign it, you can bet that liens will be placed, tax refunds seized, etc.

[Lee Borden]

And alimony will survive the discharge granted in bankruptcy, for what it's worth.

[jerbear54]

Hi, I was wondering if depression figures at all into spousal support in Ohio.  Am I more likely to be granted spousal support in this case?  Married 20 years last month.  What kind of proof is needed? 

[Lee Borden]

First, I know nothing about OH law, so I can't speak to that. In general, the depression of the proposed payor or the proposed recipient is just like any other issue in alimony: it's relevant to the extent it makes that person more likely to need support or less likely to be able to pay it. Your lawyer can help you put the depression into its financial context so that it becomes part of the overall narrative you're trying to communicate to the judge.