What happens if the paying spouse has a change in circumstances?

If the paying spouse has a change in circumstances, Washington state law allows them to request a modification of the existing spousal support orders. A change in circumstances is considered a "material change" which affects one or both parties in a way that justifies adjustment of the spousal support order. Common changes include job loss, earning a promotion, sickness, or a large change in income. When the paying spouse seeks a modification due to a change in circumstances, they will need to file a motion with the court. The motion must include evidence of the change in their economic circumstances. The motion will start a review process in which the court evaluates the information presented and decides whether or not the modification should be granted. When the court finds that the paying spouse has experienced a material change in circumstances, it will modify the order accordingly. The modification could include a decrease or an increase in the existing payments, depending on the situation. In some cases, the court might also take into account other factors when determining the spousal support order, such as the length of the marriage and the relative financial status of both parties. Therefore, it is important to present all relevant information regarding changes in circumstances to the court to ensure that the review process is fair and accurate.

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What happens if the paying spouse has a change in circumstances?

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