Important Things to Know About Rehabilitative Alimony

Moving forward with your life after divorce is rarely easy. This is particularly true if one partner left their career in order to raise children, take care of the household, or otherwise contribute to the marriage. Florida’s legal system recognizes this reality by providing for rehabilitative alimony. This type of alimony provides financial support that can allow an individual to get back on their feet and move forward in their life. Below, our Orlando spousal support lawyer outlines the most important things to know about rehabilitative alimony.

What is Rehabilitative Alimony?

Rehabilitative alimony in Florida is awarded when one spouse requires financial support to become self-sufficient after the divorce has been finalized. Like all types of alimony now in Florida, it is only temporary. It is specifically designed to ensure the party who receives support can develop work experience, education, or skills. Rehabilitative alimony also requires a rehabilitation plan. The plan should outline whether the recipient of rehabilitative alimony will be going back to school, completing certification programs, or attending training to return to the workforce after a period of unemployment.

When Will the Courts Award Rehabilitative Alimony?

Courts may award a spouse rehabilitative alimony if they can prove the need for temporary support. The spouse pursuing alimony must also present a credible and reasonable plan for becoming self-sufficient. Vaguely stating that one intends to ‘get back on track’ is not enough to secure rehabilitative alimony. The courts require an established plan before awarding this type of alimony. This may include proof of enrollment in a vocational or academic program, or the job market one expects to enter to obtain a new skillset.

How Does the Court Determine the Amount and Duration of Rehabilitative Alimony?

When the courts determine the amount and duration of rehabilitative alimony, they will consider many factors. These include:

• The financial resources of each party
• The age of each spouse
• The physical and emotional condition of each spouse
• The length of the marriage
• The standard of living established during the marriage
• The cost and time necessary for the recipient to obtain the necessary credentials or skills

After a reasonable duration of rehabilitative alimony is established, the court will then consider the financial ability of the paying spouse to contribute. While the courts strive for fairness, there is no set formula. Each case is evaluated based on its specific facts, which makes working with an Orlando spousal support lawyer even more important.

Our Spousal Support Lawyer in Orlando Can Help You Prove Your Case

Even when there is a legitimate need, rehabilitative alimony is never guaranteed in any Florida divorce. At Anderson & Ferrin, P.A., our Orlando spousal support lawyer can advise on the evidence that can strengthen your case and we will work hard to give you the best chance of obtaining the alimony you need to get back on your feet. Call us today at 407-412-7041 or fill out our online form to request a consultation with our experienced attorney and to get the legal help you need.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.08.html