Alimony/Spousal Support
What exactly is it?
Alimony is one way the court can provide for financial equity between the parties after a divorce. This is especially the case after a long-term marriage. However, there are many different types, including temporary, rehabilitative, bridge-the-gap, lump sum, durational, and permanent.
When determining an award of alimony, the court will look at several different factors including but not limited to:
- The duration of the marriage
- The standard of living established during the marriage
- The education, vocational skills, income, earning capacity, and employability of both parties
- The age and health of both parties
- The assets and liabilities of both parties, including non-marital and marital
It is important to note that at this time there is no mathematical formula for alimony, like child support. However, the legislation has attempted to adopt a formula twice in recent years. More than likely, it will try again in the next legislative session.
How is it awarded?
An award of alimony is discretionary and is in the hands of the judge hearing your case. However, the Florida legislature has provided a basic time scale to determine the type of alimony awarded. This award is based upon the length of the marriage. For a marriage of 17 years or more, the permanent type could be awarded. For a marriage lasting between 7 and 17 years, the durational type could be awarded. Durational alimony can be awarded for as long as the marriage itself. For example, the durational type for a marriage of 10 years could last for 10 years.
As a family law attorney, I have worked on hundreds of these cases. I have helped both men and women establish alimony in divorce cases. Additionally, I have helped modify alimony later when their circumstances have changed.
If you need legal counsel regarding this matter or for other family law issues, I stand ready to assist you. Call my office at (321) 728-2311 or contact me online to schedule a free initial consultation. I look forward to meeting you.