It’s not just middle class and poor people who try to avoid paying alimony. Many Texans have probably heard stories about the rich and famous trying to avoid paying their exes as well. The latest Hollywood example is actor Terrence Howard, who allegedly owes his third wife more than $122,000 in alimony.
His ex-wife is suing him for that amount, which includes interest and lawyer’s fees. It also includes a trip to Costa Rica totaling more than $18,000. The ex-wife bought the trip and put it on her credit card so that Howard could reimburse her. The trip was for the both of them so that they could attempt to reconcile.
However, the trip could not salvage their relationship. The ex-wife accused Howard of hitting her in the face and strangling her. She even got a restraining order against him. Howard denies the charges, stating that these malicious statements were fabricated by his ex-wife in order to damage his reputation and career.
The ex-wife claims that she has received $18,435 in alimony payments since May 2012. Howard allegedly owes another $63,303 in back payments. According to court documents, he allegedly earned more than $856,000 from the time period of May 2012 to June 2013.
Howard can clearly afford to pay his ex-wife the alimony that he owes her, so why is he refusing to do so? Many spouses – especially men – despise the fact that they have to continue paying money to their exes for years after the divorce has been finalized. It’s a particularly awkward situation for Howard, since he recently get married again. It’s difficult to start a new life with someone else when he must still focus on an ex-wife’s issues.
Those who are having trouble paying or receiving alimony should seek help from the court. There are adjustments and wage garnishments that can be put in place. Alimony modifications can also be made when an income level has changed for those that are making spousal support payments.
Source: BET, “Terrence Howard’s Ex-Wife Sues for Unpaid Spousal Support” Evelyn Diaz, Dec. 06, 2013
