Back Alimony payments

[flexman101]

What is the name of your state? Virginia

My mother has not collected spousal support since 1989. My father was ordered by the court to pay her $50 a month. She has not pursued the matter legally to avoid my father, he used to beat her. She has asked that I find out what the procedure is to claim the back alimony he has skipped on paying. What can she do?

[Bali Hai]

Originally Posted by flexman101

What is the name of your state? Virginia

My mother has not collected spousal support since 1989. My father was ordered by the court to pay her $50 a month. She has not pursued the matter legally to avoid my father, he used to beat her. She has asked that I find out what the procedure is to claim the back alimony he has skipped on paying. What can she do?

Your mother can file for contempt of court, IF the spousal support was court ordered.

Have your mother come here and ask her own questions, we promise not to beat her.

[Gracie3787]

Originally Posted by flexman101

What is the name of your state? Virginia

My mother has not collected spousal support since 1989. My father was ordered by the court to pay her $50 a month. She has not pursued the matter legally to avoid my father, he used to beat her. She has asked that I find out what the procedure is to claim the back alimony he has skipped on paying. What can she do?

Bali Hai is correct. But your Mom should be prepared for the possibility that she might not be able to collect all of the past alimony. Over 18 years is a long time to wait to enforce a court order.

Under the circumstances of her witing so long, she'll most likely need an attorney to get anything done. She can get a consult with one to find out if she has any chance at collecting anything.