Ordered to pay spousal support and wondering if it can be changed?

You’re not alone,  and the legal process can be confusing, costly, and stressful if you’re not prepared.

In this episode of “A Walk in the Park,” family law attorney Sina Mohajer of the Mohajer Law Firm breaks down everything you need to know about modifying spousal support, including how, when, and why it can be changed.

Whether you’ve lost your job, gone on disability, or your ex-spouse’s income has changed, this video offers step-by-step legal guidance, backed by real case examples and attorney insights.

Transcript:

So you got a court order to pay spousal support. What comes next? Do you have to pay the support order forever, or can it be modified? What’s the process to modify it? We’re going to answer all of those questions in this video.

Hi, I’m Sina Mohajer with Mohajer Law Firm. We specialize in family law, estate planning, criminal defense, and personal injury. In these mini-series, I like to tackle complex legal issues and simplify them for viewers to help answer questions you may have about your particular legal situation. If you like this video, hit the like button and don’t forget to subscribe to stay informed of any new videos being posted. Without further ado, welcome to our new mini-series called A Walk in the Park.

When can you modify your spousal support order? The court always looks at whether there’s a significant change in circumstances—such as a change in your income or your spouse’s. If either party’s financial situation changes significantly, that’s your opportunity to request a modification. To do this, you must file a Request for Order (RFO) along with an Income and Expense Declaration. These documents must include solid evidence to demonstrate the change—such as proof of retirement, disability, reduced work hours, or a drop in income.

Business owners may face complications because their income tends to fluctuate. Courts consider that variability when deciding whether to modify support. A common mistake people make is waiting too long to request a modification. Many stop paying after losing their job, assuming the court will adjust retroactively. However, the court can only modify support retroactively to the date of filing, not the date your circumstances changed. This means if you wait five months, you still owe for those five months.

Don’t delay—file immediately once your situation changes. Another mistake is not providing enough financial documentation. For business owners, simply submitting bank statements is usually insufficient. You should include a profit and loss statement and Schedule C with your declaration. If your request is being contested, or if your financial situation is complex, it’s wise to seek legal counsel.

A seasoned family law attorney can ensure your income is properly presented and that the opposing party isn’t hiding assets. Whether you’re the paying spouse or contesting a modification, an attorney can strengthen your case by reviewing financial records and ensuring full disclosure. In summary, we covered when you can request a modification, mistakes to avoid, the correct filing process, and when to seek legal help. If you have questions about your case, call our office. I’m happy to sit down with you one-on-one to discuss your options and determine the best strategy for your situation.