One of the reasons so many people stay in unhappy marriages is that they cannot afford to escape. Going from a marriage where two are earning to a single life where you have no one to share the bills with can be prohibitive. However, life is too short to be unhappy. To help people escape this situation, Florida courts can award alimony.
Alimony is a payment made from the financially better-off spouse to their less well-off spouse to allow them to achieve independence once the marriage ends. Tampa courts have the power to award it in various ways. A judge will look at how long you were married, your age, earning ability and financial needs, and those of your spouse. They will also consider the assets split in your divorce. If you leave the marriage with various multimillion-dollar properties and a large yacht, it may be hard to convince the judge you are struggling to survive.
Here are the forms of alimony a Tampa court could award:
- Permanent alimony:There have been moves to remove this option, but so far, it can still be awarded after a long marriage. It will last until you remarry, or one of you dies.
- Temporary alimony:Regular payments are made while the case is pending.
- Rehabilitative alimony:This could be awarded if you gave up your career for your marriage. You could claim it to undertake training that will allow you to increase earning potential.
- Bridge the gap alimony:This is for a two year period to allow you to transition into your new single life.
- Durational alimony: Regular payments are made for a fixed period of time. This type of alimony is frequently used when permanent alimony is not appropriate.
A court’s decision on alimony depends on many factors and the judge’s interpretation of your situation, which is why you need skilled legal representation to fight in your corner.
