Alimony usually plays a role as one of the key battlegrounds during divorce proceedings; yet through the aid of a compassionate Broward County alimony lawyer, it may be possible to reach alimony agreements on good terms. Continue reading and contact The Finizio Law Group, P.A. to learn more about alimony in Florida and how our legal team can assist you.
Do I Need a Broward County Alimony Lawyer?
Alimony, or spousal support, is simply money that one spouse provides to the other during the dissolution of marriage or for a period after the divorce is finalized. It may be paid for a specified period of time or indefinitely, as Florida is one of just a few states that still allows permanent alimony. Payments can be made on a monthly basis or in a lump sum. If the divorce is litigated, terms are set by the courts. With so much on the line, you should proceed with a knowledgeable Broward County family law attorney on your side.
Why is Alimony Necessary?
Some couples may not consider alimony a vital part of their divorce agreement, yet it is an important factor as it allows for one of the parties to maintain the standard of living to which she or he became accustomed during the marriage. Alimony allows a divorcing spouse to maintain the quality of life with which he or she is familiar until he or she can sustain him or herself. This is especially important for mothers who dedicated much of their time to raising children, or stay-at-home fathers. Alimony provides a stepping stone so that the spouse with the least ability to make ends meet can transition into an independent life.
How is Alimony Determined?
Spouses who can set their alimony terms without litigation may submit the terms to the court for approval. When negotiations fail, the court will determine the amount of alimony to be paid, and the duration of these payments. It is in the best interests of both spouses to try their best to negotiate alimony or spousal support terms. Alimony is just one issue that may be resolved through collaborative divorce proceedings. By negotiating, both parties tend to walk out with more favorable terms than if the court decides what is best.
If your divorce is litigated, the courts take several factors into consideration when determining how much alimony will be paid, and for how long. These may include:
- Financial resources, including property
- Sources of income
- Earning capacity and employability of each spouse
- The marital standard of living
- The length of the marriage
- The age, physical, and mental conditions of both spouses
- The spouse’s contribution to the marriage
- Whether or not children are involved
- The necessary time the spouse who is to receive alimony needs to train for employment, or go back to school
- Any other factor the court deems relevant
Contact a Broward County Alimony Lawyer
Whether you expect to pay or receive alimony, you deserve a compassionate and knowledgeable Broward County alimony lawyer who will fight for a positive agreement on your behalf. We have over 35 years of experience helping people through various family law matters, and we are here to help you, too. Contact The Finizio Law Group, P.A. today to schedule your free initial consultation with our competent legal team.
