Alimony, also commonly referred to as spousal support, is a financially supportive payment made from one spouse to another in the event of a divorce.
In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage, the court may grant alimony to either party, which alimony may be rehabilitative or permanent in nature. In any award of alimony, the court may order periodic payments or payments in lump sum or both. The court may consider acts of adultery on the part of either spouse and the circumstances thereof in determining the amount of alimony, if any, to be awarded.
Ronald L Sims, P.A., represents the legal rights and goals of those involved in alimony, divorce, or other family law issues or disputes in Orlando and the Central Florida area. For a confidential legal consultation, please call 407.843.5885.
When determining a proper award of alimony or maintenance, the court may consider all relevant economic factors, including but not limited to:
If the court determines it necessary to protect an award of alimony, the court may order the one paying alimony to purchase or maintain a life insurance policy or a bond, or to otherwise secure such alimony award with any other assets which may be suitable for the purpose of securing the court ordered alimony payments.
If either parties financial standing or other relevant factors significantly change, either party may petition the court to seek an increase or decrease in the amount of alimony to be paid, or to have the alimony - spousal support payments terminated. This is considered a post judgment alimony modification.
A modification to court ordered alimony may also be negotiated through mediation, and if agreed upon by both parties, the alimony modification must still be made official by asking the court to agree and sign-off on the alimony modification agreement.
If you have questions, concerns, or legal needs regarding alimony, divorce, or other family law issues, we urge you to seek the legal advice of experienced legal counsel.