When a court orders spousal support, it becomes a binding legal obligation — not a suggestion. Yet, unfortunately, some former spouses fail to pay what they owe, leaving the supported spouse struggling to meet financial needs or feeling powerless to act.
At the Law Office of Stuart E. Bruers, based in Torrance, California, and serving clients across Los Angeles County, Orange County, the South Bay, and the San Gabriel Valley, we help clients enforce unpaid spousal support orders efficiently and effectively, ensuring that every dollar owed is collected.
Your Right to Collect Court-Ordered Support
Once spousal support is ordered, the paying spouse is legally required to comply. Failure to pay can result in serious legal consequences, including wage garnishment, liens, or even contempt of court.
California law gives the receiving spouse powerful tools to enforce a judgment, and these obligations do not disappear with time. In fact, unlike many other debts, spousal support arrears never expire until they are paid in full, with 10% annual interest accruing on the unpaid balance.
Our firm regularly represents clients in enforcing orders issued by courts in Torrance, Long Beach, Pasadena, and Downtown Los Angeles, ensuring that the law works as intended to protect those who rely on court-ordered support.
Common Enforcement Tools
The California courts and Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) offer several methods for recovering unpaid support. Depending on your situation, the court may order one or more of the following:
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Wage Garnishment: The most direct method, automatically deducting payments from the non-paying spouse’s paycheck.
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Bank Levies: Seizing funds directly from bank accounts or other assets.
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Property Liens: Placing a claim on real estate or other property until arrears are paid.
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License Suspensions: Revoking a driver’s, professional, or business license until payment is made.
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Tax Refund Interception: Seizing federal or state tax refunds to cover unpaid balances.
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Contempt Proceedings: Holding the delinquent spouse in contempt of court, which can result in fines or even jail time for willful nonpayment.
At the Law Office of Stuart E. Bruers, we evaluate which enforcement methods are most effective for each case and pursue them strategically — balancing assertive action with efficiency.
Defending Against Unfair Enforcement Actions
Sometimes, a paying spouse falls behind due to legitimate hardship — such as job loss, illness, or retirement — without filing for a modification. In these cases, it’s important to act quickly. California law generally does not allow retroactive reductions in support before a modification request is filed.
Our firm also represents payors who face enforcement actions, helping them present evidence of good faith and seek appropriate adjustments to prevent excessive penalties or contempt findings.
Why Experience Matters
Enforcement proceedings can be legally technical and emotionally charged. Judges in Torrance, Compton, and the South Bay expect detailed records of payment histories and credible documentation of arrears. Having an attorney familiar with local court procedures ensures your case is presented clearly and persuasively.
With over 30 years of family law experience, the Law Office of Stuart E. Bruers has successfully resolved complex enforcement matters across Los Angeles and Orange Counties, helping clients recover unpaid support or protect themselves against unjust actions.
Take the Next Step
If your former spouse has stopped paying court-ordered spousal support — or if you’re behind on payments and need legal help — contact the Law Office of Stuart E. Bruers today. We serve clients in Torrance, Redondo Beach, Long Beach, Beverly Hills, and throughout Southern California, providing trusted guidance and proven results in enforcing and defending spousal support cases.