Spousal Support Lawyer in West Palm Beach
Getting divorced is no walk in the park. Even in seemingly simple situations, there are so many family law elements to deal with. If you have children, you may be dealing with child support, custody, and time-sharing matters. If you do not have children, then there are still property division and spousal support matters to deal with.
Spousal support refers to court-ordered financial support after a divorce. It was created decades ago when most households survived on one income. Typically, the husband worked while the wife stayed home and took care of the children. Spousal support allows the spouse with the lower income to enjoy the standard of living they enjoyed while married.
Do you qualify for spousal support? Do you have to pay it? Spousal support is something that varies on a case-by-case basis. You and your spouse can reach an agreement on your own or have a court decide. Contact West Palm Beach family law attorney Brian K. McMahon, P.A. to learn more about your legal rights and responsibilities.
Types of Spousal Support
Florida currently recognizes four types of spousal support:
- Rehabilitative support. Rehabilitative support is the most common type of support in Florida. It is meant to allow the lower-earning spouse to receive training and education so they can advance their career. Rehabilitative support may not exceed five years.
- Bridge-the-gap support. This type of support is available in Florida but not in many other states. It helps a person with financial needs as they transition from married to divorced life. It can last for up to two years.
- Temporary spousal support. Temporary spousal support is similar to bridge-the-gap support but lasts a shorter period of time. It is meant to help a person during the divorce process and ends once the divorce is finalized.
- Durational support. This is a newer type of support in Florida. It awards support for a set time that is determined by the length of the marriage. For example, for a short term marriage (less than 10 years) the support may not exceed 50% of the length of the marriage. For a moderate-term marriage (10-20 years) the support may not exceed 60% of the length of the marriage. For a long-term marriage (over 20 years) the support may not exceed 75% of the length of the marriage
Permanent spousal support was common in the past, allowing those married for more than 17 years to receive spousal support for life. However, Florida Gov. Rick DeSantis overhauled alimony in 2023, banning permanent spousal support. The list of changes can be found here.
Contact Our West Palm Beach Family Law Attorney Today
Florida offers many types of spousal support to help low-income spouses during a divorce. There are many factors that determine eligibility, the amount, and length of time.
Will you receive alimony? Will you have to pay it? Contact West Palm Beach family law attorney Brian K. McMahon, P.A., to understand the process and get your questions answered. To schedule a consultation, call (561) 658-1789 or fill out the online form. We serve the West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Port St. Lucie, and South Florida areas.