Can I appeal an unfair spousal support ruling?
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Can I appeal an unfair spousal support ruling?
I have been divorced for 3 years; only married for 9 months. I have been ordered to pay spousal support in the amount of $18,000. She has claimed the honeymoon, wedding, ring (I paid $7,000 for the ring that she still has), sold all of our belongings and paid for the honeymoon that she is now suing for. I bring home $12,000 a year. I can’t pay her. I was ordered to be in court within 21 days of the judgment, but my ex wanted to get back together and I believed her. However on the 22nd day, she said she would see me in court. Yes, I was stupid. Being married only 9 months, how can she get so much? I don’t have it. Each time she serves me papers, I get charged the service fee.
Asked on September 9, 2010 under Family Law, Michigan
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Listen, it is time that you go down to Legal Aid and ask for help. Something here wet terribly wrong. You need to make a motion to modify or set aside the order. It is ridiculous given the information that you have given here. The length of the marriage is but one of the factors that the Court can use to determine support and 9 months of marriage versus 3 years of support (was it for back support?) seems ridiculous. Also, is the support permanent or temporary? Rehabilitative (is she trying to get a job)? What? Also try any of the bar associations and see if there is a pro bono or legal services division for at least a consultation so you are armed at your next court date. Good luck.
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