My circumstances have changed for the worse and I think I should be paying less, what can I do? =============================================================================================== When you divorce, any maintenance order will be based on what you are earning at the time. For whatever reason, you might not always be earning at that level. Whether it is due to a downturn in your business, ill-health or retirement, you might find that the maintenance payments are taking a disproportionate amount of your income. If that is the case, you can ask the court for a [downward variation of your maintenance](https://vardags.com/law-guide/how-the-courts-decide-a-financial-settlement/varying-spousal-maintenance). The court is obligated to evaluate all aspects of the case and take into account various statutory factors outlined in section 25 (during the initial consideration) and section 31 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 when addressing variations. The court will assess what you can pay and what your ex-partner needs, using that to decide what you should be paying. The court uses expedited proceedings for this, so it is likely to be far less lengthy and costly than your original proceedings. It may even be possible to agree without going to court. If you have suffered a dramatic fall in income, it is vital that you seek a new order rather than unilaterally stopping payment. Even where you are unable to pay, the court can look unfavourably on you if you just stop the maintenance. It is far better to contact experienced lawyers like Vardags to help you review your obligations. **If you want to reduce the amount you pay, Vardags can help you. Click below for a free initial consultation with one of our expert divorce solicitors.** [BOOK MY FREE CONSULTATION](https://vardags.com/contact "BOOK MY FREE CONSULTATION") About Us -------- Ayesha VardagFounder & President "A DIVORCE LAWYER WIDELY REGARDED AS ONE OF THE WORLD'S BEST" The Metro Vardags offer a unique approach to the law, specially tailored to the needs of HNW individuals. We offer City-quality representation for your divorce and family law needs. Our lawyers come from the very best universities and receive the very best training - they are determined, diligent, and dedicated to getting the best outcome... [read more](https://vardags.com/about-us) [BOOK FREE CONSULTATION](https://vardags.com/contact) What our clients say -------------------- Throughout my time using Vardags I felt that I have always been in the best possible hands. I enjoyed an excellent level of service and received accurate and precise legal advice. The lawyers are hugely talented, sensitive and... focused on getting the very best results. Their no-nonsense and direct approach is most valuable when time and costs are of the essence. I highly recommend them over and above any other law firm I have ever dealt with. Thank you Vardags. Valerie I would like to say working with the staff at Vardags was a great support to me at a difficult time of my life but with their support and sensitivity I was able to get through the experience with less stress and ease. If anyone... is looking for a good legal team I would recommend Vardags. They may cost a bit more but will give you good service. Brenda Hart A responsive and helpful service; quick to understand and advise on the issues. Ian Smith I had the pleasure of working with Tatiana Amdur during a very challenging time in my life, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. From our first consultation, Tatiana displayed a remarkable blend of professionalism, empathy,... and expertise. She took the time to understand the intricacies of my case and provided clear, actionable advice that was always in my best interest. Alexandra Gutina Throughout the period of the divorce and all financial matters, it is evident that the legal team at Vardags care deeply about the welfare of their clients. This is demonstrated through ensuring that a swift, fair and amicable... resolution remains the focus of all work undertaken. This of course has been in my best interest and in fact, the interest of all parties involved. Sarah Seikegba Immediate advice was gratefully received. No hesitation in recommending Vardags. Stewart Little OFFICES ------- [London](https://vardags.com/office/london "London") 020 7404 9390 [Cambridge](https://vardags.com/locations-we-serve/cambridge "Cambridge") 01223 855751 [Manchester](https://vardags.com/locations-we-serve/manchester "Manchester") 0161 464 4657 International 020 7404 9390 [Milan](https://vardags.com/it-it/copertura-territoriale/milano "Milan") +390282954578 [Florence](https://vardags.com/it-it/copertura-territoriale/firenze "Florence") +390282954578