Am I Entitled To Alimony? Your Rights To Spousal Support When Getting A Divorce In Fort Lauderdale
Alimony is often one of the most contested issues in Fort Lauderdale divorce proceedings, impacting both the spouse seeking financial support and the one being asked to pay. Florida law establishes specific guidelines for awarding alimony, otherwise known as spousal support. These focus on the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial situation, and the need for financial help.
If you are considering a divorce in Fort Lauderdale, you may be wondering if you are entitled to alimony payments. Our Fort Lauderdale alimony attorney explains common factors the court uses to determine who qualifies for spousal support and the different types available.
Your Rights To Alimony In Fort Lauderdale
Going through a Fort Lauderdale divorce can be devastating both emotionally and financially. If you relied on your partner as the primary breadwinner during the marriage or they make significantly more than you, adjusting to living on your own often proves difficult. Getting spousal support payments in Fort Lauderdale, otherwise known as alimony, can help protect your financial security.
The Florida Statutes outline the rules and requirements for divorce and dictate divorce-related matters, including when alimony is warranted. In deciding whether to award spousal support payments, key factors the judge in your case will consider include:
- The length of the marriage: Alimony is generally not awarded in lasting less than three years.
- Each spouse’s contributions to the marriage: This includes both financial contributions and non-financial roles, such as childcare or supporting a spouse’s career.
- Each spouse’s financial situation: This includes their income, assets, and earning capacity.
- The receiving spouse’s need for financial support: Alimony is awarded in Broward County divorce cases only when one of the parties proves they have a legitimate need.
Four Types of Alimony in Florida Divorce Cases
When filing a divorce petition through the Broward County Family Court, be aware of your rights regarding spousal support. These payments protect your financial security while you make a fresh start and begin living life without your spouse. There are four types of alimony that may be awarded in Fort Lauderdale divorce cases:
- Temporary alimony, which is support paid while your divorce is ongoing;
- Bridge-the-gap alimony, which may be awarded up to two years to help in transitioning to post-divorce life;
- Rehabilitative alimony, awarded for up to five years, which can help in gaining an education or job training;
- Durational alimony, awarded for more extended periods based on the overall amount of time you and your spouse were together.
To Get The Maximum Support You Are Entitled, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Attorney
If you relied on your spouse’s income during your marriage, getting alimony in Fort Lauderdale can play a major role in recovering financially from your divorce. Sandra Bonfiglio represents clients throughout Broward County in these cases and has the legal expertise needed to get them the maximum amount they are entitled to by law. Give our office a call or contact us online. Schedule a consultation today with our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.08.html