Am I legally responsible for my ex-wife’s medical bills that were incurred during our marriage?
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Am I legally responsible for my ex-wife’s medical bills that were incurred during our marriage?
I filed a credit dispute and received a letter from a collection agency. My ex-wife incurred a medical debt while we were still married. Our divorce was finalized in the next year. In the decree she agreed to pay all of her personal medical bills. Even though she used the insurance I provided, my name appears nowhere on the statement. Furthermore, the patient record very specifically states that the undersigned (patient), my ex-wife only, is primarily responsible for payment and, in case the account is filed with collections, will pay all fees. Do I have a case?
Asked on August 14, 2012 under Family Law, Tennessee
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
Generally speaking, if oyor state law requires that you are responsible for the "necessities" of your spouse - and medical bills are considered necessities - then yes, you would be liable here. Now, although you and your ex have allocated that particular liability the provider was not a part of your divorce so they are not bound by your agreement. You have a case against your wife. Get help. Good luck.
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