If I moved out of a jointly owned house, am I obligated to continue paying for half themortgage even though I don’t live there?
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If I moved out of a jointly owned house, am I obligated to continue paying for half themortgage even though I don’t live there?
I am 37 year old male married for 14 years with 2 teenage boys. I moved out of house jointly owned with wife 8 months ago. I started paying child support from day 1 thinking that was all that I needed to protect myself from any back payments. Now my wife’s lawyer is stating that I should have been paying half of the house payment as well all along even though I don’t live there. Does she have any leverage with her claims? Should I be paying for half of house and should I start paying now?
Asked on January 18, 2012 under Family Law, South Dakota
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
I am so sorry for your situation. Unfortunately the attorney for your wife is correct: your obigation to pay at least half of the bills for the house - including the mortgage - continues even though you do not live there any longer unless there is an agreement or court order in place. I would suggest that you seek help from an attorney in your area on this matter as soon as you can. Good luck.
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