Connecticut movie buffs have probably heard of Terrence Howard because his film credits include “Hustle & Flow,” “Iron Man” and “The Butler,” but Howard claims the movie business has not provided him with a lavish income because of a divorce settlement. The actor recently said he cannot pay spousal support for $325,000 to his second wife because a majority of his income goes to pay his support obligations to his first wife and their children.
Spousal and child support payments reportedly take up most of Howard’s income, and his first wife leaves him with $5,878 a month. Howard was married to his first wife for 14 years, and two of their three children are under the age of 18.
Howard was married to his second wife for a year and recently asked that a judge throw out their settlement agreement. The star said he knew he could not afford to pay but was blackmailed into signing the document. Howard allegedly physically abused his most recent wife, and Howard agreed to stay 300 yards away from her and pay $14,800 in legal fees. However, he did not admit liability in that case.
Alimony determinations are usually made with the best interests of each party in mind, and several factors go into determining how much one might pay or receive. A Connecticut judge may review the earning capacity of each spouse, the length of the marriage, the health and financial position of each party and more. As in Howard’s case, one person may have to pay alimony and child support if children are involved, and such decisions can have a large impact on an individual’s financial circumstances. Those who are attempting to negotiate support payments might benefit from discussing the matter with an attorney.
Source: Daily News, “Terrence Howard says he can’t afford spousal support for ex-wife, only makes $6,000 a month: report“, Zayda Rivera, July 28, 2014
