Alimony is an important issue during any divorce. It is desirable that both spouses exit the divorce process in as good a financial position as possible and that both are prepared for a positive financial future.
Alimony is a payment made by one former spouse to the other. As a result, alimony, or spousal support, can sometimes also be a contentious issue during a divorce. It can be help divorcing spouses understand when alimony may be granted in Florida. That way, they can better prepare for their divorce process.
What are the different types of alimony awarded in Florida?
Different types of alimony may be awarded during a Florida divorce for different durations. The different types of alimony the family law court may award can include:
- Rehabilitative alimony
- Bridge-the-gap alimony
- Permanent alimony
- Durational alimony
- Lump-sum alimony
What factors does the family law court consider when awarding alimony?
The family law court may consider a variety of different factors when determining an alimony award. Factors include:
- The length of the marriage
- The standard of living enjoyed during the marriage
- The age of the spouses
- The physical and emotional conditions of the spouses
- The earning potential of each of the spouses
- The financial resources of each of the spouses
- The property division settlement
- The time needed to obtain the education or training to secure employment
Alimony may come up in situations when one spouse remained at home to care for the children and home or supported the career development of the other spouse. These are also factors that may be taken into account when determining alimony.
Because alimony can have such a significant impact on a divorce, it helps divorcing spouses to be aware of how it gets awarded and understand the factors that are considered when making an alimony award so they can better protect their interests.
