This post begins a discussion on the issue of spousal support or alimony in Melbourne, Florida divorce cases. I feel it is necessary to write on this topic due to the fact that there are few issues which case disagreement, in a divorce, as does alimony. It is common for one spouse to feel that they should not have to make a payment while their counterpart feels that the payments should be larger. The goal of my coming articles is to provide information which will help people to better understand their situations. It is also my goal to provide information which will help people to make an informed decision when they are selecting an attorney. If you or a loved one are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
I will be addressing several topics over my coming articles. Issues which I will analyze include:
- An explanation of Florida’s spousal support laws
- How the division of marital property and debts will impact alimony
- How “underemployment” can impact support payments
- Adjusting support payments after the divorce has been finalized
- The consequences of not making court-ordered alimony payments
There are multiple reasons why I have chosen to address these issues. First, it is important to understand the circumstances under which our state will award spousal support. Second, the Court will consider the amount of marital property, which each party is receiving in the divorce, as part of its analysis of one’s need for support and the other’s ability to pay. Third, underemployment can result in one being required to pay a support amount which is disproportionate to their actual income. Fourth, if circumstances change after the case is completed then it may be possible to have a monthly payment increased or decreased. Finally, failing to make one’s court-ordered alimony payments can result in their being held in contempt of court.
One point that I cannot stress enough is that you should contact an attorney as soon as possible if you are going through the end of a marriage. Alimony can raise complicated issues of fact and law and it is important to retain counsel who is experienced in handling such matters. As a Melbourne divorce lawyer, I am able to assist you. Contact my office today to schedule an initial consultation. We also service clients in the Brevard County cities of Titusville, Cocoa, Palm Bay, Grant, Valkaria, and Rockledge, as well as in the Indian River County areas of Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach, Indian River Shores, and Orchid.