How Long Does Alimony Last in Orlando?
When going through a divorce, one spouse may be ordered to pay alimony. Couples can reach an agreement about this term and if it is fair, a judge will approve it. If the couples cannot agree, or a judge deems an agreement unfair, the court will decide. Many factors are considered when determining what terms of alimony are fair. One of these is how long a person will have to pay, or receive, alimony. Below, our Orlando spousal support lawyer explains how this is determined.
How is Alimony Determined in Florida?
Again, there are many factors to consider when decisions about alimony are made. Some of these are as follows:
- The length of the marriage,
- The standard of living during the marriage,
- Any sacrifice made by one spouse regarding their educational or earning opportunities to benefit the other party,
- The health of each spouse, and
- Any history of domestic violence or abuse.
How Long is Alimony Paid in Florida?
The length of the marriage is given much weight when alimony decisions are made. Florida law also specifically defines marriage length and these definitions are as follows:
- Short-term marriages are those that last less than seven years.
- Moderate-term marriages last between 7 and 17 years.
- Long-term marriages are those that last longer than 17 years.
It is important to know how Florida law defines marriage length because it will have a direct impact on the length of time support is to be paid. The shorter a marriage, the less time alimony is paid. When couples have been involved in a long-term marriage, they can expect, too, that alimony will extend for a longer period of time. In most cases alimony will not exceed the length of the marriage except in cases where permanent periodic alimony is appropriate in situations involving long term marriages or when other special circumstances may exist
When Can Alimony Be Modified or Terminated in Florida?
While a judge will issue an order indicating the amount of alimony to be paid, and how long support will last, there are times when either payers or recipients can petition the court for a modification. This is a change to the original order and a court must approve the change before either party takes action. You can ask the court to change an alimony order when:
- There has been a substantial change in circumstances,
- The change could not have been foreseen at the time the original order was issued, and
- The change was involuntary, material, and permanent.
The only time you do not have to petition the court for a modification is when the recipient dies or remarries. In these cases, the order is automatically terminated at the time of the marriage or death.
Our Spousal Support Lawyer in Orlando Can Advise On Your Case
Whether you need to pursue alimony, defend against unfair requests for it, or petition the court for a modification, our Orlando spousal support lawyer can help. At Anderson & Ferrin, our seasoned attorneys have extensive experience helping clients with alimony issues and we can put that expertise to work for you, too. Call us now at 407-412-7041 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation and to learn more.
Source:
flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2018/61.08
