Spousal and child support obligations can last for years following a divorce. However, if you believe your obligation has become unfair, you may be able to have it lowered or terminated. The process involves filing a motion with the court based on a “material change in circumstances warranting a modification” of the obligation. Simply stopping payments can lead to serious trouble for the payor including contempt findings. It is best to seek an attorney’s advice rather than to try to proceed pro se (on your own without an attorney) when seeking to modify an obligation such as support modification. This includes the appeals process if, for example, you are found in contempt for failure to make support payments. Failure to properly follow appeals procedures can hinder your ability to have a court hear your claims.