Alimony and work obligations: What are your rights?

Questioner

To what extent can an ex-partner be 'forced' to work more so that less spousal support has to be paid? The ex-partner now works approximately 16 hours per week. At the time of the divorce, 2 years ago, she indicated that she could no longer work because of the children. The children are now 16 and 19 years old! But she has no intention of working more. She now indicates that there is no more work at her current employer because of cutbacks. Can she be asked to try to get more hours at her current employer or to look for other paid work in addition to her current job? By her attitude she clearly indicates that there is actually no point in working more. As long as spousal support is paid, this is financially unnecessary.

Lawyer

The court often indicates in the considerations of the order whether it can be expected of another person whether she should (eventually) start working to meet her own needs. It may then be advisable to follow the efforts the other person makes. In the event of a significant change in circumstances, it may also be an additional argument to take into account that the other person has stopped working. However, in these times of crisis, the person addressed may successfully argue that she/he simply cannot work anymore.

Questioner

But can a certain effort be expected from her to generate more income, even if the situation is not encouraging due to the crisis and when the economy picks up again in the future?

Lawyer

Everyone is obliged to fight his need as much as possible himself, but the alimony can also be based on the prosperity of the marriage to which you must continue to contribute. This is called the after-effect of the bond of fate of the marriage, now 12 years.

Questioner

Thank you very much for this info.

Questioner

One more question in response to your answer: Doesn't the prosperity of the marriage also apply to the man?

Lawyer

yes that is certainly the case.