Alimony Explained: What You Need to Know
If you’re considering filing for divorce in Boynton Beach, Florida, you may have questions about alimony. Alimony, also called spousal support, is a type of financial support paid to a former spouse. Understanding alimony is important before filing for divorce to ensure you receive a fair outcome. The experienced divorce attorneys at Pyfrom & Reisler, PA can provide the legal guidance you need for your case.
Introduction to Alimony
Alimony is the court-ordered payment from one former spouse to another. It is intended to provide financial support to the recipient in the form of money or other assets. Alimony is also meant to balance out the earning capacities of the two spouses, helping the recipient to maintain the same standard of living they had during the marriage.
Types of Alimony in Florida
Florida courts recognize several types of alimony, including:
Temporary Alimony
This is paid during the divorce proceedings and is meant to provide financial support until the divorce is finalized. It is also known as alimony pendente lite, or alimony pending the litigation.
Bridge-the-Gap Alimony
This is intended to help a spouse transition from married to single life. It is not intended to provide long-term support and is usually limited to two years or less.
Rehabilitative Alimony
This is meant to provide financial support while the recipient receives training or education to become self-sufficient. The court will require a plan that outlines how the recipient will become self-sufficient.
Durational Alimony
This is used to provide financial support to the recipient for a set period of time. It is usually awarded when other types of alimony are not appropriate.
Permanent Alimony
This is meant to provide long-term financial support and is usually reserved for marriages that lasted for a long period of time.
Factors That Affect Alimony
In Florida, the court will consider several factors when determining if alimony is appropriate and the amount to be paid. These factors include:
Length of the Marriage
The length of the marriage is an important factor in determining alimony. Generally, the longer the marriage, the more likely the court is to award alimony.
Income and Earning Capacity
The court will consider the income and earning capacity of both spouses. If one spouse has a substantially higher income or earning capacity than the other, the court may award alimony to the lower-earning spouse.
Standard of Living During the Marriage
The court will consider the standard of living the spouses had during the marriage and if they can maintain the same standard of living after the divorce.
Contributions of the Recipient
The court will consider the contributions of the recipient to the marriage, such as providing childcare or other services.
Understanding Alimony Before Filing in Boynton Beach, FL
If you’re considering filing for divorce in Boynton Beach, Florida, it’s important to understand alimony before filing. Turn to the experienced divorce attorneys at Pyfrom & Reisler, PA to provide the legal guidance you need for your case. Our attorneys can help you understand alimony and other issues related to your divorce. We can also provide representation for other family law matters, such as child support, prenuptial agreements, and more. Contact Pyfrom & Reisler, PA today to discuss your case.