Spousal Support (Alimony) In Fort Lauderdale: How It Works And Whether You Are Eligible

Spousal support, also known as alimony, can be one of the most contentious issues in a Fort Lauderdale divorce. Florida courts use specific guidelines to assess whether alimony is warranted, and if so, how much and for how long. Our Fort Lauderdale alimony attorney explains what you need to know about the types of payments you may be entitled to and how to determine if you are eligible.

Your Rights Regarding Alimony In Fort Lauderdale Divorce Proceedings

Alimony, or spousal support in Fort Lauderdale, can help you adjust financially to the difficult process of divorce and the life-changing impacts it can have on your life. Under the Florida Statutes, several types of spousal support are available, each designed to meet specific needs:

• Bridge-the-Gap Alimony: This is designed to help the recipient spouse transition from married life to single life. It is typically awarded for a short duration and is not meant to be permanent.
• Rehabilitative Alimony: This provides financial support for a spouse who needs assistance while they obtain the training or education necessary to become self-sufficient.
• Temporary Alimony: This helps to meet financial needs during divorce proceedings.
• Durational Alimony: This is generally awarded for a set period of time, such as while raising children from the marriage.

Factors The Broward County Family Court Considers When Awarding Alimony In Divorce

Broward County Family Court judges consider all of the circumstances surrounding your case in determining whether alimony is appropriate and, if so, what type and amount should be awarded. The primary goal of alimony is to help reduce hardship for the lower-earning spouse and encourage financial independence. Some of the factors courts will consider:

• Length of the Marriage: The amount of time you were married is a major factor in determining alimony in Florida. It is more likely to be awarded when a couple was married for at least seven years.
• Earning Capacity: The Broward County Court will assess the earning potential of both spouses, taking into account factors like education, work history, and the ability to support oneself.
• Health and Age: The health and age of each spouse are also significant factors, particularly when one spouse is unable to work or support themselves due to health issues.
• Financial and Non-Financial Contributions: Both spouses’ contributions to the marriage, whether financial (income, assets) or non-financial (child-rearing, homemaking), are considered.
• Marital Misconduct: If you or your spouse engaged in marital misconduct (affairs, gambling, or other addictions), it can influence your rights in getting alimony in Fort Lauderdale.

To Protect Financial Security, Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Alimony Attorney

If you’re facing a divorce in Fort Lauderdale, protecting your financial security in the aftermath is a top priority. The Law Office of Sandra Bonfiglio is here to help and protect your rights regarding alimony, marital property division, and other vital divorce-related issues. To protect yourself in Broward County divorce proceedings, contact our office and request a consultation with our Fort Lauderdale alimony attorney today.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm/Ch0316/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.08.html

browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family\