Fighting For Your Right To Alimony

Alimony, also known as spousal support, is generally intended to help a former spouse maintain the standard of living he or she had throughout the marriage. A judge will consider several factors when deciding if alimony should be awarded and how it should be paid. At the Law Office of Ada M. Barreto, P.A., our Miami family law attorney has the experience and knowledge to ensure a fair outcome for your case.

Contact the Law Office of Ada M. Barreto, P.A., in Miami at 305-709-5725 to schedule a consultation with our knowledgeable attorney.

Different Types Of Alimony In Florida

Not all forms of alimony are the same. Some are temporary and serve more of a rehabilitative purpose while others are permanent.

Here are some of the different types of alimony you might receive in Florida:

• Temporary alimony: When one spouse needs support throughout the divorce process, temporary alimony is awarded to ensure that the lower-earning spouse does not become impoverished.

• Rehabilitative alimony: In some cases, rehabilitative alimony might be awarded to a spouse while he or she pursues training or higher education to secure gainful employment. However, the supported spouse must submit a plan, illustrating how much time and money is required to achieve these goals.

• Durational alimony: If other options are not enough to meet the needs of the lower-earning spouse during the divorce process, a judge might award durational alimony instead. The length of these payments will depend on the length of the marriage.

• Lump-sum alimony: In some cases, a judge might award lump-sum alimony if he or she feels the situation justifies it. For example, if the paying spouse is in poor health, instead of awarding permanent alimony, a judge might order him or her to make a one-time payment.

• Permanent alimony: If a judge believes a spouse will need support for an indefinite period, permanent alimony might be awarded.

Who Is Entitled To Alimony?

Alimony is not guaranteed in a divorce. A judge will consider numerous factors to determine if a spouse is entitled to alimony.

Here are some of the factors a judge will consider:

• The earning capacity, educational level and employability of each spouse
• The age and emotional and physical well-being of each spouse
• The sources of income available to each spouse
• The tax consequences of an alimony award to either party
• The responsibilities each spouse has to their minor children
• The established standard of living during the marriage
• The contributions of each spouse to the marriage, such as child care and homemaking

Reach Out To Our Miami Family Law Team To Protect Your Interests

At the Law Office of Ada M. Barreto, P.A., we understand the financial difficulties spouses face when going through a divorce, which is why we are committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. You can rely on our team to pursue the most cost-effective and amicable solution on your behalf.

Contact us today at 305-709-5725 to set up a consultation with our experienced family law attorney.