Ever been told “I’ll take care of it” only to find out they didn’t?
You’re not alone—and in Georgia divorce cases, verbal promises don’t carry legal weight when it comes to debt.
When Debt Isn’t Just Theirs Anymore
Let’s say you’re splitting up. Your ex promises to keep paying the car note or the credit card they mostly used. You shake on it, move out, move on—and then the calls start.
Debt collectors. Missed payments. Maybe even a hit to your credit score.
Here’s the hard truth: If the account is in your name, you’re still legally on the hook.
Why Your Divorce Agreement Must Be in Writing
In Georgia, your divorce decree must clearly assign debt responsibility to be enforceable. A casual “they said they’d pay it” won’t protect you from:
- Credit damage
- Collections harassment
- Potential lawsuits
- Wage garnishment
The court doesn’t care about who used the card most. If the loan is in your name (or both names), the creditor will come after you until it’s paid.
Common Scenarios That Lead to Trouble
- Co-signed car loans where one person keeps the car but doesn’t refinance
- Joint credit cards where only one person agrees to pay
- Medical bills from a child or spouse that were never clarified in court orders
- Unrefinanced homes that both names still appear on
In each case, if your name is on the account, your credit is at risk—no matter what your ex said they’d do.
What You Can Do About It
If you’re already in this situation, don’t panic. Here’s what you can do:
- Go back to court to enforce or modify the agreement
- Request a court order that outlines responsibility
- Demand refinance or asset sale as part of a negotiated revision
- Monitor your credit and keep documentation of all correspondence
“But They Promised…”
We get it. Divorce is emotional. You wanted to believe them. But your financial future shouldn’t depend on someone else’s follow-through. Georgia law gives you tools—but you have to use them.
Pro Tip:
If you’re about to file for divorce, don’t rely on verbal arrangements. Make sure your lawyer puts all debt responsibilities in writing, and get signed agreements on who will refinance, close accounts, or cover what.
Don’t Let Debt Follow You After the Divorce
Whether you’re in Richmond County, Augusta, Evans, or anywhere in Georgia—your best protection is a lawyer who knows how to draft an agreement that actually protects you.
Because a promise isn’t enough. But a court order? That holds weight.