As you encounter the complexities of divorce in Florida, understanding alimony may be crucial. At West Family Law Group in Orlando, FL, our experienced attorneys have experience in marital and family law, offering a solutions-based approach to help you restructure your family life with focus, promptness, and positivity.
What is Alimony?
Alimony or spousal support is money one spouse may need to pay the other during or after a divorce. This obligation is not the same for everyone; instead, various factors like the length of the marriage, the couple’s lifestyle, each party’s income and financial resources, and contributions to the marriage, including homemaking and childcare, play a significant role in determining if alimony is warranted, its amount, and how long it will be paid.
Types of Alimony in Florida
Florida law recognizes different types of alimony:
- Temporary Alimony: This type of alimony is awarded during the divorce proceedings. Its purpose is to provide financial support to a spouse until the divorce is finalized.
- Bridge-the-Gap Alimony: This alimony is intended to assist a spouse in transitioning from being married to a single life. It covers short-term needs and can last no longer than two years.
- Rehabilitative Alimony: Aimed at helping a spouse become self-sufficient through redeveloping previous skills or acquiring new education or training. This type of alimony requires a specific plan, such as attending school or vocational training.
- Durational Alimony: Assuming there is a need and ability to pay future support, this type of alimony will be awarded. The amount is the lesser of the actual needs of the recipient or 35% of the difference in the spouses net income. How long it will be paid depends on the length of the marriage.
- Permanent Alimony: This form of alimony is no longer available in Florida. If you are paying permanent alimony you may be entitled to a modification, but that is not automatic.
Each serves a specific purpose, from supporting a spouse through the divorce process to providing long-term assistance.
Criteria for Determining Alimony
The court considers several factors when determining alimony, such as:
- The duration of the marriage
- Each spouse’s financial resources
- The standard of living during the marriage
- Contributions to the marriage, including homemaking and childcare
- The earning capacities and employability of each spouse
The Duration of Alimony
The duration of alimony payments depends on factors like the type of alimony awarded and the length of the marriage. Durational alimony cannot be longer than 50% of the length of the marriage if you are married less than 10 years; 60% of a marriage of 10 to 20 years; and 75% of a marriage of 20 years or more.
Modifying Alimony
Alimony can be modified or terminated based on significant changes in circumstances, such as a substantial change in the income of either spouse or the payor spouse reaching normal retirement age.
Alimony Consultations with West Family Law Group
At West Family Law Group, we understand the nuances of alimony in Florida. Our approach includes:
- Comprehensive: We delve into your specific circumstances to offer personalized guidance and various possible strategies.
- Possible Settlements: We empower you to potentially settle directly with your spouse or former spouse, saving time, money, and stress.
- Legal Advice: Our attorneys stay abreast of the latest changes in family law to offer you the best advice based on the current law.
Making Informed Decisions
We believe informed clients make the best decisions. Our consultations cover crucial topics like child custody, property division, and alimony, arming you with the knowledge to journey through your divorce confidently.
A Strategic Approach
Our team provides more than advice; we offer a roadmap for your divorce proceedings, ensuring you understand the potential outcomes of different options whether by settlement or trial.
Why Choose West Family Law Group?
Choosing us means investing in your future. Our consultations are designed to prepare and educate you, making you a vital partner in the legal process.
Facing a divorce in Florida can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. West Family Law Group is here to guide you through every step, ensuring you understand your rights and options. Our experienced attorneys are committed to providing you with the tools and information you need for a favorable outcome. If you’re considering divorce or facing family law issues in Florida, don’t hesitate to contact us online for a comprehensive, tailored consultation. Together, we can walk the journey with confidence and care for your family law case.
