Making a career change can be a great opportunity for a fresh start. It is important to first consider whether the timing of job hunting is ideal though, as there are times where switching jobs may negatively impact one’s life. For example, changing jobs while going through a divorce is rarely a good idea.
Avoid changes in compensation
In Alabama, many decisions during divorce rest at least in part on things like income. The impact of securing either a higher or lower paying job is unlikely to secure the result one might think. Earning more at a higher paying job will generally lead to increased amounts of child support and alimony. However, purposely taking a lower paying job will not decrease support payments.
What if change is unavoidable?
Unfortunately, losing one’s job is a real risk that can happen at any time. A judge will not necessarily automatically view the situation in a necessary light, though. Instead, he or she will consider whether some of the following factors were at play:
- Downsizing
- Misconduct
- Subpart performance
In general, judges will not penalize individuals who have lost their jobs due to downsizing or other factors outside their control. Misconduct or subpar performance is an issue, though. Disgruntled spouses will sometimes attempt to lose their jobs on purpose in order to avoid paying child or spousal support. If this is the case, the spouse will often still be on the hook for those payments.
Divorce already brings enough change to life. If possible, it is a good idea to avoid other significant life changes, such as switching jobs, until the process is complete. Those who are eager to navigate this part of life as effectively and in as timely a manner as possible are generally well-advised to learn more about Alabama family law as early on in the process as possible.
