Orlando Spousal Support Lawyer
Spousal support may be an issue in many Florida divorce cases, but the relevant legal concepts often run contrary to popular assumptions about alimony. It’s not always available for one party and, when it is, there are certain limitations based on the different types of support. Plus, though it’s possible to reach an agreement on the issue of alimony, there’s also the possibility that you’ll have to go to court for a determination.
Therefore, regardless of whether you’re in the position of recipient or payor, it’s important to rely on knowledgeable attorneys for assistance with alimony. Our team at the Arwani Law Firm has the skills to facilitate an agreement, but we’re ready to pursue your interests in court if necessary. Please call now to speak to an Orlando spousal support lawyer, and check out some of the basics.
Florida’s Statute on Spousal Support in Divorce
State law recognizes that a lower-earning spouse may need financial support during divorce proceedings and after the case concludes. Therefore, the statute provides for four different types of alimony in divorce:
- Bridge-the-Gap: This type of support helps a lower earning spouse pay living expenses and maintain a comfortable lifestyle when going from married to single life;
- Rehabilitative: If one spouse gave up educational or employment opportunities to support the household, he or she may need assistance in becoming self-sufficient. Spousal support can be applied to school or vocational skills training. The order for this type of alimony must provide a specific plan, and the recipient must comply with it.
- Durational Spousal Support: A spouse may be entitled to receive alimony for a short amount of time, which is based on the length of the marriage.
- Permanent Alimony: When the marriage lasted several years, a party to be awarded financial support on a permanent basis. Courts rarely order this type of alimony, since the person it’s intended to help should be able to become self-sufficient in time.
Factors That Impact Alimony in Florida
Florida law encourages divorcing couples to agree on spousal support; if you cannot, the judge will decide after conducting a hearing. Our attorneys at the Arwani Law Firm can assist with negotiating and drawing up an agreement on alimony, but we’re also prepared to represent you in court.
The initial question in the hearing process is whether alimony is appropriate. Then, the judge will determine the type, amount, and other details by focusing on such factors as:
- Your age and physical condition;
- Financial resources;
- Earning capacity;
- Employability;
- The standard of living during marriage;
- Length of the marriage; and,
- Many others.
Get Legal Help from Our Orlando, FL Spousal Support Lawyers
There’s no guarantee that a party can obtain alimony in a Florida divorce case, which is why retaining experienced legal counsel is critical. Whether you’re seeking it or might have to pay, our team at Arwani Law Firm is dedicated to protecting your interests. To learn more about how we can assist with your case, please contact our firm to schedule a consultation with an Orlando spousal support attorney.