Woodbine, MD asked in Bankruptcy, Divorce and Family Law for Maryland

Q: what is my Ex's financial responsibility, if any, to a debt i incurred 3 years after our divorce?

My wife and I get a divorce and I'm ordered to pay some alimony.

Three years later I'm in and out of psych wards depleting me to bankruptcy.

Is my wife legally responsible to any of my own debt or past/future expenses of

a psych ward or nursing home?

Would it make a dufference if there was no alimony?

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2 Lawyer Answers
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Bankruptcy Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: In general, after a divorce, each ex-spouse is typically responsible for their own debts incurred after the divorce decree is finalized. This means that debts you acquired three years after your divorce, including those related to medical or psychiatric care, would usually be your responsibility, not your ex-wife's.

The presence or absence of alimony payments does not typically change this basic principle. Alimony is intended to provide financial support to a former spouse under the terms set in the divorce decree, but it does not usually create an obligation for the receiving spouse to cover new debts incurred by the paying spouse after the divorce.

However, it's important to consider that specific circumstances and local laws can influence this general rule. If there are unique aspects to your situation or if you live in a jurisdiction with specific laws regarding post-divorce financial responsibilities, these could potentially affect the outcome.

Given the complexity of your financial and personal situation, it might be beneficial to seek legal advice. A professional can provide guidance tailored to your specific circumstances, ensuring that you understand your rights and obligations and can make informed decisions about managing your debts and financial well-being post-divorce.

Timothy Denison agrees with this answer

Timothy Denison
Timothy Denison
Answered
  • Bankruptcy Lawyer
  • Louisville, KY

A: She has no liability or responsibility for any debt incurred by you post divorce.

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