When is an Award of Alimony Appropriate?

In certain cases, upon separation or divorce, one spouse will be entitled to Alimony or Spousal Support. To put it simply, in order for Alimony to be awarded, the Court has to find that one party has the need for Alimony, and the other party has the ability to pay Alimony. The unique circumstances surrounding each marriage will influence whether there is an award of Alimony; and, if so, the amount and duration of the award.

What types of Alimony can be awarded in Florida?

In Florida, there are 6 types of alimony: permanent alimony, durational alimony, rehabilitative alimony, bridge-the-gap alimony, temporary alimony, and lump sum alimony.

Alimony Factors

The Court considers several factors in deciding whether to award alimony, including how long the the couple was married, the standard of living enjoyed during the marriage, the age and condition of the spouses, each party’s financial resources, income, assets and liabilities, each party’s contribution (financial and otherwise) to the marriage, and if a spouse needs to go back to school or for training to leave him or her in a comparable financial situation.

Alimony Decisions

Once alimony is waived, it is nearly impossible to establish it later, so it is wise to consult an experienced family lawyer before making any decisions.

Modification of Alimony

There are certain events in life that can reduce, or even completely eliminate alimony. The death of either party is one of them. Another is when either party has a substantial change in circumstances, such as a reduced income, increased income, or the loss of a job. Alimony may also be reduced or terminated when the party receiving it remarries or cohabits in a marital-like relationship with another.

To speak to an experienced Divorce Attorney with Levinson & Capuano, LLC about your Alimony concerns, please call (954)703-2110 or Click Here to Contact Us.

To learn more about Divorce in Florida Choose your Next Topic: