Alimony, also known as spousal support or maintenance, is a critical component of many divorce settlements. It’s designed to provide financial assistance to a spouse who may be economically disadvantaged after the marriage ends.

But what happens if you work? Can you still receive alimony?

A variety of factors play a role in determining whether or not someone receives alimony. Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Alimony in Florida

In Florida, alimony is not automatically awarded in every divorce case. Instead, it’s determined based on various factors, including:

• Duration of the marriage: The length of the marriage is a significant factor in determining alimony. Generally, longer marriages are more likely to result in alimony awards, especially if one spouse has been financially dependent on the other for a significant portion of the marriage.
• Financial need: The court will consider each spouse’s financial situation, including income, assets, and expenses. If one spouse lacks the financial resources to support themselves adequately after the divorce, they may be awarded alimony.
• Standard of living: The court will strive to maintain the standard of living established during the marriage, to the extent possible. If one spouse is accustomed to a certain lifestyle and cannot maintain it on their income post-divorce, they may be eligible for alimony.
• Contributions to the marriage: The court will consider each spouse’s contributions to the marriage, both financial and non-financial. This includes factors such as child-rearing, homemaking, and support of the other spouse’s career or education.

Why You Might Still Receive Alimony If You Work

Even if you are working, there are several reasons why you might still receive alimony:

• Income disparity: Alimony is often awarded to address disparities in earning potential between spouses. If one spouse earns significantly more than the other, or if one spouse sacrificed their career or education for the benefit of the marriage, they may still be entitled to alimony, even if they are employed.
• Maintaining the marital standard of living: If the marital standard of living is higher than what you can afford on your income, you may still be eligible for alimony to help bridge the gap.
• Temporary support: In some cases, alimony may be awarded temporarily to provide support while you transition to financial independence. This can be especially helpful if you need time to secure higher-paying employment or further your education or training.
• Childcare responsibilities: If you have primary custody of children and need to work less or take a lower-paying job to accommodate childcare responsibilities, you may be entitled to alimony to help offset the financial impact.

Consulting with an Attorney

Navigating alimony issues can be complex, especially if you’re unsure of your rights and options. Consulting with an experienced family law attorney in Florida is essential to protect your interests throughout the divorce process.

An attorney can assess your unique situation, explain your rights regarding alimony, and advocate for a fair and equitable outcome. Whether you’re seeking alimony or contesting a request for alimony, an attorney can provide invaluable guidance and representation, helping you achieve a favorable resolution.

If you have questions about alimony, contact the Geller Law Firm at (813) 405-1509.