Spousal support may be a point of contention during divorce proceedings in Florida. However, you don’t have to handle this complicated subject on your own. Instead, you can seek compassionate support from a Tampa spousal support lawyer.
Our team at Melone Hatley, P.C. has 10 years of experience helping clients like you through this challenging time. Reach out to a Tampa divorce lawyer for professional assistance with alimony.
Find out more about how we can help by calling or completing our online contact form.
What Determines Spousal Support in Tampa?
Spousal support, or alimony, payments only become an issue in some divorce proceedings in Florida. The court decides whether and how much spousal support to award based on factors like:
- The need of the person seeking support based on the standard of living from the marriage
- The ability of the other party to provide support
Additionally, the court may look at each party’s:
- Your age and the age of your spouse
- The physical and emotional condition of both parties
- Earning power and financial outlook
- Available sources of income
- Resources, earning capacities, and skills
- Contributions to the marriage
Finally, the court system in Tampa will likely look at the length of your marriage when making decisions about spousal support. In 2023, the Florida Legislature amended Florida’s alimony statutes to redefine the lengths of short, moderate, and long-term marriages.
With the elimination of permanent spousal support and a cap placed on the maximum award of durational alimony that a former spouse can receive, an attorney focused on Florida Family Law can explain how these changes will affect your case.
A Tampa family lawyer will explain how spousal support may apply to your specific circumstances. We recognize the financial impact of divorce and are prepared to offer the support you need.
Why does the Court Award Spousal Support?
The Florida court system awards spousal support to allow parties to maintain a set standard of living following a dissolution of marriage. Spousal support should not serve as a punishment or reward.
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How Can a Tampa Spousal Support Attorney Help?
Having a lawyer you trust simplifies the process of arranging spousal support. We are here to support you, whether you wish to contest or seek spousal support during your divorce.
We base our services on your needs, focusing on protecting your rights and best interests. Depending on your circumstances, our legal team may focus on:
- Seeking spousal support to help with your finances
- Pushing back against unreasonable spousal support requests
- Adjusting a previous spousal support order
We will collect financial documentation to strengthen your claim and deal with legal communication on your behalf. Your lawyer offers objective advice amidst emotional challenges, staying pragmatic to guide you toward clear-headed decisions.
You can count on our team to handle other matters associated with your divorce, including child custody or the division of assets and debts. We provide customized legal strategies and represent you in and out of court.
Why Choose Us to Handle Your Spousal Support Needs?
Our Melone Hatley, P.C., team has a decade of experience handling family law cases. We believe in standing as your partner as you deal with the legal challenges surrounding your divorce case.
We always take a client-focused approach to address your legal concerns so you never feel alone. You can reach out to us anytime to get a free consultation from one of our Client Services Coordinators.
As a woman-owned family law firm, we focus on finding creative solutions to problems while protecting your future and your finances. Contact us anytime to discuss your divorce and issues with spousal support.
What Kind of Spousal Support Will Apply in Your Situation?
Florida permits individuals to seek various types of spousal support based on their circumstances. Often, parties reach an agreement on support with their lawyers’ assistance outside of court.
Depending on your situation, your support issue may involve:
Temporary Spousal Support
Florida uses temporary spousal support to assist the spouse with lower wages during the divorce. Generally, temporary spousal support ends once your divorce is finalized.
Bridge-the-Gap Spousal Support
A few states, including Florida, offer bridge-the-gap support. This support may last for up to two years. It aims to help a lower-earning spouse adjust to the change between married and divorced finances.
Rehabilitative Spousal Support
Rehabilitative alimony aims to enhance your or your ex-spouse’s self-sufficiency, offering financial assistance as you or they pursue education, retraining, or career advancement.
Generally, individuals only get rehabilitative support if they can demonstrate their plan and provide information about the plan’s duration and cost. However, rehabilitative support does not come with a time limit like temporary and bridge-the-gap support.
Durational Spousal Support
Florida’s removal of permanent alimony has placed durational alimony in the spotlight. This type of support may last for some time, as decided by the court and Florida’s spousal support statute.
This form of support cannot be granted for any marriage that was less than three years. The duration of the marriage also affects the length that the support can be in place and Durational support comes with a set expiration date.
Permanent Spousal Support
Finally, Tampa individuals cannot receive permanent spousal support. This change as of July 2023 significantly impacts parties in a dissolution of marriage and what they’re entitled to receive. A combination of other types of alimony is the best way to make up for the lack of permanent alimony.
Our team can discuss all forms of spousal support and how they may impact your situation.
Take Charge With a Spousal Support Lawyer in Tampa
Secure the services of a Tampa spousal support lawyer from Melone Hatley, P.C., for assistance throughout your Florida divorce proceedings. Our skilled legal team is ready to address all aspects of spousal support, ensuring your rights are protected and your financial future is secure.
Whether you’re initiating a claim for support or responding to one, we’re here to offer the legal guidance and support you need. Call or complete our online contact form to find out how we can assist you in achieving a favorable outcome in your spousal support case.
