The end of a marriage can often come with serious financial setbacks for one or both parties. If a divorce has a significant impact on a spouse’s financial well-being, then either the spouses or the courts may arrive at an agreement that includes provisions for alimony. Florida has its own laws regarding spousal support and the terms under which it may be awarded.
In Florida, once a settlement has been determined, the courts will look at the division of assets and will then consider whether a spouse will need additional financial support beyond the equitable division agreement. On the other hand, the spouses may be able to reach an agreement on their own concerning the amount, frequency and duration of such support payments. However, if this mutual agreement is not entered into the official divorce record, then it may be difficult and costly to enforce if the paying spouse declines to follow through.
The courts will take various factors into consideration when determining whether spousal support is warranted, including the duration of the marriage, the financial standing and earning capacity of the parties, the time needed for education or training, and the physical and emotional condition of the the spouses. In addition, there are several types of alimony that can be granted depending upon each unique set of circumstances. Furthermore, these support payments are made through the state’s payment disbursement system in order to reduce the need for physical contact after a divorce is obtained.
Alimony payments can be ordered for a short duration or until the recipient remarries or dies. It can also be paid in a lump sum or over a set schedule. Each situation requires an individual approach. Florida residents who are seeking a divorce may wish to discuss this and other issues related to any settlement agreements with an experienced attorney.
Source: FindLaw, “Florida Spousal Support or Alimony Laws“, Accessed on March 5, 2018
