In Nebraska, spousal support—commonly referred to as alimony—is a legally enforceable obligation. When a court orders one spouse to pay support to the other, it’s not optional. Failing to meet this responsibility can result in serious legal and financial consequences.

At VandenBosch Law, LLC, we help individuals in the Omaha area understand their obligations and protect their rights in all spousal support matters.

Legal Consequences of Non-Payment

When spousal support goes unpaid, the receiving spouse can file a motion for enforcement with the court. This can trigger a number of actions against the paying spouse, including:

• Contempt of Court: Failure to comply with a court order can result in contempt proceedings. If found in contempt, the court may impose fines or even jail time.
• Wage Garnishment: The court may order an employer to withhold a portion of the paying spouse’s wages to cover the support owed.
• Liens on Property: The court can place a lien on real estate or other valuable assets, making it difficult to sell or refinance until the support is paid.
• Interception of Tax Refunds: Nebraska courts can intercept federal and state tax refunds to cover unpaid spousal support.
• Suspension of Licenses: Professional, driver’s, or even recreational licenses may be suspended for ongoing non-payment.

Financial Repercussions

Beyond legal penalties, unpaid support accrues interest and can lead to mounting debt. Missed payments also affect the paying party’s credit score, potentially harming their ability to secure loans or housing. Courts generally take a strict approach to enforcing alimony, and claiming inability to pay without formal modification rarely holds up in court.

How VandenBosch Law, LLC Can Help

If you are unable to meet your spousal support obligations due to a significant change in financial circumstances, it is crucial to act quickly. You must petition the court for a modification of the original order rather than stop payments on your own. At VandenBosch Law, LLC, we assist Omaha residents with:

• Filing for support modifications
• Contesting or enforcing support orders
• Protecting their rights during divorce or post-divorce proceedings

Our team is here to ensure that your interests are fairly represented and that any changes in your situation are properly addressed in court.