“Sometimes The Questions Are Complicated And The Answers Are Simple.”

– Dr. Seuss

Determining if you are entitled to alimony

On Behalf of | Dec 28, 2017 | Alimony

Many things are likely running through your head when you decide to file for divorce. What will life be like on my own? Will I find love again? How will I pay for my post-divorce life? Meeting your financial needs often tops the list, as many divorce issues tend to be related to money. For Florida couples going through a high asset divorce, you might wonder how much money you are getting and whether alimony is on the table.

Not every spouse is entitled to alimony in a divorce. Only those who are unable to meet his or her financial needs will be awarded spousal support. Additionally, spousal support is only possible if the other spouse is capable of paying the financial award.

There are common reasons for requesting alimony and none of these are because of spite or a way to hurt a former spouse. In some cases, temporary alimony can be extremely necessary because a spouse decided to forgo a career or education because he or she stayed home to care for the children. Spousal support is often awarded to help that spouse obtain the training or education to go back to work.

On the other hand, if it is determined that a spouse will never be able to be self-supportive, which is frequently associated with their age or disability, permanent alimony could be awarded. When seeking alimony, the court will look at various factors. All of these factors are related to a spouse’s ability to obtain a job that will provide enough income for them to be self-supportive. Other factors, such as the standard of living during the marriage could increase this threshold, making it easier for spouses in a high asset divorce to receive alimony.

If you are seeking alimony or a former spouse is requesting that you pay alimony, it is important to understand your rights in this matter. This process can sometimes get complex, requiring much documentation to establish, modify, enforce and even end alimony. Thus, divorcing and divorced spouses should timely address any legal issues stemming from spousal support.