On behalf of The Law Office of Gustavo E. Frances, P.A.
It’s unfortunate that easy and smooth divorces don’t happen very often. Divorce can be a very long and emotional process. Even after the process is over, you still may have to deal with your ex-spouse. You may be required to pay alimony. If you haven’t been through this process or if you don’t know anyone who’s been through this, then you might not know how it works. It’s essential to know the different forms of alimony that are awarded. You should also know how you qualify for alimony as well as how long you will have to pay it.
Forms of Alimony
The first form of alimony is temporary alimony. This alimony is usually given in the beginning, before the divorce is final. This is done before a permanent alimony agreement is made. As just mentioned, permanent alimony is another form of alimony. It is the typical form of alimony and is used for long marriages. It is monthly payments of spousal support. Lump-sum alimony is another form of alimony. It’s also known as spousal support buyout. Alimony will have to be paid all at once instead of monthly payments. Rehabilitative alimony is another form of alimony. This is typically given when a spouse has sacrificed their professional career or education during the marriage.
How Do You Qualify for Alimony?
There are several different factors the court looks at when determining if a party will require alimony. They will look at the potential recipient’s ability to have gainful employment. Gainful employment is when consistent work is given and payment is received from the employer. Typically, if a spouse has been the stay-at-home parent, then they may not have the skills to get gainful employment. The court looks at the potential recipient’s potential to make an earning. An example of this would be if one party didn’t work due to a disability and relied on the other for their primary income. The court also looks at the length of the marriage. If the marriage was long, then there will be a stronger case for alimony. Florida courts typically award permanent alimony for marriages lasting longer than 17 years. The court also looks at the ability of the other party to pay alimony and provide support. The court looks at if either party has custody of minors when determining alimony.
How Long Will You Have to Pay Alimony?
One scenario in which you can stop making payments is if your former spouse remarries. These payments can also end when the children no longer need a full-time parent at home. If either you or your former spouse dies, then alimony payments are no longer made. If the recipient of alimony has not made the effort to support themselves, then alimony may be terminated. Alimony can have a set end date that the judge determines. Alimony payments can end when the payor has a significant drop in income and can no longer make payments.
You thought getting through the divorce was the hard part. Now that you have to pay alimony, there’s even more pressure and stress on you. Sometimes alimony is quoted as a price that is truly unfair to you. Or you’re not allowed as much alimony as you need. You should consider The Law Office Of Gustavo E. Frances, P.A. in Fort Lauderdale when dealing with this subject matter. He is accessible, knowledgeable, and affordable. He’s ready to fight for you and get you what you deserve. Simply fill out this contact form for a free initial consultation or call toll-free at 954-533-2756. For evening, holiday, and weekend calls, use 954-297-6546.
