Reasons to Modify a Court Order of Financial Support

 Posted on March 27, 2025 in Spousal Maintenance

After a divorce is finalized, you might find yourself responsible for paying child support or spousal support – maybe even both. These are both serious obligations, with serious consequences if you refuse to pay. However, the court does recognize some circumstances to modify these orders. An Illinois family law attorney can represent you in front of a judge, making a good faith case on your behalf.

At Calabrese Associates, P.C., we are sympathetic to the troubles people face after a divorce. When you work with our firm, you will receive qualified legal counsel and representation from an attorney with years of hands-on experience.

Loss of a Job

In order to petition for a modification of a support order, you will have to prove that you experienced a substantial change in circumstances. If you lost your job unexpectedly, you may have a strong case to get the payments paused or reduced. 

Keep in mind that the court will only recognize a good faith change in circumstances. If you simply quit your job or got fired due to your own carelessness, it is unlikely that a judge will allow a modification. At Calabrese Associates, P.C., our attorney can meet with you to discuss your options and whether the loss of your job qualifies for a modification.

Major Illness or Injury

If you can hold down a steady job, the courts generally assume that you can pay alimony or child support. However, if you experience a sudden downturn in your health, your ability to pay might be seriously affected. For instance, if you work in a job that demands high physical labor, a broken leg could set you back for months.

A major illness or injury could give you valid grounds to petition for a modification of a court order. The burden of proof is on you to demonstrate how your health issue affects your ability to pay. At Calabrese Associates, P.C., we can help you compile medical documentation to present to the court.

When Can a Support Order Be Terminated?

There are very specific situations in which you can get an order of spousal support or child support terminated. Child support is normally terminated when a child turns 18 or graduates from high school, but it can also end when the child becomes emancipated through the military or marriage.

Unless alimony is ordered to be paid indefinitely, it usually has a set end date that may be subject to renewal. However, if your spouse cohabitates with a new partner or gets remarried, alimony can be terminated immediately. It can also be terminated if your spouse gets a substantial increase in income or otherwise receives a significant sum of money.

If you are looking to terminate a court order of support, our divorce attorney can review your case with you and help you take legal action.

Contact a Naperville, IL Divorce Lawyer Today

An order of child support or alimony can put a strain on your finances. With the help of a DuPage County, IL family law attorney, you may be able to get the order modified. Call Calabrese Associates, P.C. at 630-393-3111 today to get started with a consultation.