When entering a divorce, one thing that can be concerning to both spouses is finances. Sorting out finances during a divorce can be daunting when a couple has shared finances, assets, and liabilities, especially if they’ve been married for some time.
During the process of sorting out finances, each spouse may wonder if they will need alimony to continue living the lifestyle they enjoyed while married. A Groveland Florida Divorce attorney can help discuss the possible options and if you may need alimony.
4 Types of Alimony in Florida
When considering alimony payments, there are four types considered by the Florida courts.
Bridge-the-Gap Alimony
This type of alimony helps bridge the gap while spouses are transitioning from being married to being single. The goal is to meet short-term needs that are identifiable by the courts. The judge sees these needs as legitimate and necessary. A spouse who receives bridge-the-gap alimony cannot receive it for longer than two years. The amount and duration of the alimony payments can’t be altered unless the spouse receiving it remarries or one spouse passes away.
Durational Alimony
In some cases, long-term alimony isn’t needed or reasonable. This is usually the case in short-term marriages, or those in which there isn’t a need for ongoing financial support. But in some instances, short-term spousal support is an effective and fair solution. Durational support, once ordered, cannot be altered unless there are extenuating circumstances.
Permanent Alimony
When a divorcing spouse does not have the capacity to match the lifestyle that was established during the marriage, they may be awarded permanent alimony. This is considered long-term support. In order to be awarded long-term support, the court has to be thoroughly convinced, with overwhelming evidence, that permanent support is necessary. The court will also need to determine that other types of alimony are not fair or reasonable in a particular situation.
Rehabilitative Alimony
Sometimes, a spouse just needs some financial support to help them get into a position to be able to support themselves. In these instances, rehabilitative alimony may be awarded. It can be used for education, gaining work experience, or specific training to develop skills. As part of rehabilitative alimony, a plan will be established. The plan will include changes due to specific circumstantial changes as outlined in Florida law.
When calculating alimony, there isn’t a standard one-size fits all formula to use, like when child support is calculated. Instead, the court must determine if there is a need and the other spouse’s ability to pay.
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