More details to this question:
I have been verbally ordered by a judge to pay alimony to my ex wife, just days ago in a mandatory settlement hearing (4/29/13). She is already sending me harassing emails for money, but I have no court order or anything in writing from my attorney or the court yet. I don't even know what the official amount will be, since I owe retroactively from 4/15/13. What are my rights and legal obligations? Am I in contempt of a court order that I haven't received yet? Thank you.
5 ANSWERS
You should contact your attorney for the exact amount you should pay and for advice on when the payments begin. If the court ordered you to begin making payments in April, you should make the payments by the last day of the month. If the court was not specific about when alimony begins, you can probably assume that the first month would be May. There are no statutory due dates for alimony as there are for child support. If you pay by the end of the month, you are considered current. You cannot be in contempt of an order until it is entered, but if the judge ordered you to pay in April, you could find yourself in trouble if you wait until a written order is submitted and signed by the court.
Answered on May 07th, 2013 at 1:59 PM
You have an attorney. Ask him or her these questions. That is why you have counsel.
Answered on May 07th, 2013 at 1:44 PM
Business/ Commercial Attorney serving Seattle, WA
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Wolfstone, Panchot & Bloch, P.S., Inc.
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This question should be directed to your attorney since s/he was at the settlement conference and is familiar with the facts and circumstances of your case.
Answered on May 07th, 2013 at 1:39 PM
Appellate Attorney serving Grosse Pointe Farms, MI
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Musilli Brennan Associates, PLLC
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Generally, you cannot be in contempt of a court order which has not been entered. As a practical matter however you shouldn't start making the payments as quickly as possible so that you don't end up with a major arrearage, especially given your knowledge that the obligation will commence on April 15. Make an estimated payment and account for it later after the actual order is entered.
Answered on May 07th, 2013 at 1:38 PM
Domestic Relations Attorney serving Milford, MI
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Gabel, Gudmundsen & Gabel, P.C.
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A Court speaks through its written orders, and if no written order has yet been issued, you cannot be faulted for not paying any money yet. The order, when issued, should indicate when support starts and how you are to pay it.
Answered on May 02nd, 2013 at 11:06 PM