Legal Question in Family Law in Arizona

I just got a rendering in my long term divorce. I get alimony for life along with 1/2 of the investments. It's been 3 months since the trial and 1 month since the rendering yet I have yet to see any back alimony, or alimony period or any of the investments. There is nothing in my copy of the documentation from the judge giving my ex a time frame to comply. She said immediately--I still have nothing. How long does the process take to receive what I am due?


Asked on 1/07/10, 4:54 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Dustin Vidrine Wade & Vidrine, PLC

Unfortunately, having a court order is sometimes only as good as the paper it is written on. While your ex is bound by the Order, he or she might just stall. Having the Order is useful, though, as you now have a court ruling that you can enforce against your ex and his or her assets. Unless he or she voluntarily takes some action, you might have to be proactive in enforcing the Order by getting further legal help to obtain things such as a QDRO if the investments are in a retirement or other tax qualified plan, placing and enforcing a lien, and a garnishmentor an assignment of income through a clearing house to get the steady alimony payments.

Did you have a lawyer in the divorce action? If so, you may want to follow up with that lawyer to see about getting things initiated. If you didn't have a lawyer and feel like you need to consult with one, feel free to drop me a line.

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Answered on 1/12/10, 6:39 pm


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