how many years can i go back

[sandspap]

I my divorce was final in 1983, it was a short marriage, my ex was the petitioner, but left the country faster than the papers could be served, his lawyer even withdrew from lack of response. I was awarded spousal support to be determined later, which I knew I would never get, but I was supposed to be reimbursed certain expenses that were laid out and he was supposed to pay my lawyer. This was in California, well I never knew where he was no cooperation from any family members, I moved back east in the late 80's and didn't remarry until 1995. I have always tried to locate him, never any luck, from what I have found out he seemed to move every year. A few months back I googled him, and got lucky and found the right person, what a suprise only 140 miles away. I keep getting different answers from different people. I do not understand legal jargin that is in the law books and from what I understand every state has different laws. I was told he still owes me the money that was stated in the judgement plus interest. I was also told that I have to register my divorce decree in the state where he resides, which is CT and I am in MASS. I was then told that it wouldn't hold up in CT because of their laws state that both parties have to be in court when divorce is final or the orders don't hold up.I cannot afford to hire a lawyer, and I am not at federal poverty guidelines so I can't get free aid, or so I am told. I just wish someone would help me get the correct answer in laymans terms. This divorce caused me and my family alot of distress and hardship, and from what I have found out about him, he thinks he can just do what he wants and not be held accountable. Is there anyone that can point me in the correct direction.

 

[Duranie]

How long was the marriage? If it was short it is surprising you were awarded any spousak support at all unless you won in default. It has been so long plus you have remarried, and it sounds like there was no actual $$ figure calculated. I do not know how you can enforce this. You will have to see an attorney.

 

[sandspap]

I do not to get spousal support, but there were amounts detailed out in the aggreement for expenses and lawyer fees.