Suing former spouse for Federal Taxes Owed

[Devastated]

In 1998, my then-spouse and I filed our joint Federal income tax return. Due to her obtaining a new job and a substantial increase in income, with no W-4 adjustments, we ended up owing $12,172.00; $1,300 of it was mine alone. I paid the $1,300 and we entered into payment arrangements of $400 per month for the remaining balance. We divorced in 2000 and since then, she has not paid a dime toward principle, interest or penalties. I obtained legal counsel to the tune of $4,000 in an attempt for relief to no avail.

I made the final payment last month; total bill came to over $17,000 of which I have personally paid $15,000 since the divorce. My question is two-fold:

• Can I sue her for half of the $15,000 that I've paid since our divorce?
  Can I sue her for any portion of the $4,000 I paid in legal fees in order to attempt relief?

Thank you in advance for your assistance.

[llworking]

In 1998, my then-spouse and I filed our joint Federal income tax return. Due to her obtaining a new job and a substantial increase in income, with no W-4 adjustments, we ended up owing $12,172.00; $1,300 of it was mine alone. I paid the $1,300 and we entered into payment arrangements of $400 per month for the remaining balance. We divorced in 2000 and since then, she has not paid a dime toward principle, interest or penalties. I obtained legal counsel to the tune of $4,000 in an attempt for relief to no avail.

I made the final payment last month; total bill came to over $17,000 of which I have personally paid $15,000 since the divorce. My question is two-fold:

• Can I sue her for half of the $15,000 that I've paid since our divorce?
  Can I sue her for any portion of the $4,000 I paid in legal fees in order to attempt relief?

Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Although this situation deals with tax, its really not a tax law question. Its a question that has to do with marital property settlements. Consult a family law attorney.