The Alimony Law in Florida

Many couples in Florida go through a divorce for a variety of reasons. The first step to finding a financial settlement after a divorce is to speak with an experienced lawyer who can determine if the divorce decree provides sufficient financial support.

The most common type of award after a divorce is Alimony. This type of award is usually based on the standard of living the parties shared while married and/or during the marriage.

Alimony was not originally intended to be awarded for long periods of time, but was used to provide a more stable income level after a divorce. Today, this is the most common type of financial support awarded after a divorce.

Custodial parents are typically awarded Alimony. Judges and attorneys often consider this award contingent upon the value of the marriage for the custodial parent. Alimony is typically required to be paid even if both parties are completely capable of supporting themselves.

There are other child custody laws that could be used to modify an Alimony award. These child custody laws often affect an Alimony award in different ways. These modifications are more complex and should be discussed with an attorney to ensure a fair financial award.

If you want to negotiate a settlement on your own, it is important to understand the good faith effort required by the court. Courts tend to use a clear cut standard to determine a reasonable amount of time and expenses that would be necessary for you to find employment and maintain a comfortable lifestyle. The Court will determine this amount based on the circumstances of the case and the nature of the parties' relationship.

Most family law lawyers will advise their clients to adhere to this standard during a divorce to ensure that they are awarded the fair amount of support. It is important to understand that some of the factors that will impact the amount of time and money needed to maintain a comfortable lifestyle are related to the timing of the divorce and the number of children involved.

It is also important to understand that while the standard of living provided by the parties is a contributing factor, it is not the only factor to be considered by the Court. It is important to determine the results of the divorce and the level of emotional stress that has been caused by your spouse's behaviors. This is a personal matter and it is your responsibility to prepare yourself and your attorney.

You must be aware that in many cases the judgment is contingent upon the findings of past marriages. Many couples find that by meeting with an attorney before the divorce is finalized, it can be helpful to narrow down the possible issues and arrive at a fair settlement. You will also be able to prepare your assets and your attorney will be able to negotiate on your behalf.

In cases where there are specific instances involving physical abuse of the parents, you will need to consult an attorney for assistance. Again, you must understand that by meeting with an attorney before the divorce is finalized, you will be able to be given all the information you need to prepare yourself for the divorce. The time you spend preparing yourself for the divorce is time and money you will save yourself.

Alimony can be awarded to both parties following a divorce. However, most of the time the Husband is awarded Alimony and the Court generally awards the same amount of Support to the Wife.

Although many believe that Alimony is the most commonly awarded award after a divorce, this is not always the case. In many cases, the standard of living shared by the parties prior to the divorce will be considered by the Court.