Contrary to popular belief, alimony—also called spousal support—remains a possibility after a Daytona Beach, Florida divorce. However, it functions much differently than it did in previous eras. When your grandparents or great-grandparents were young, one of the divorce parties almost always acquired alimony.
Then it was nearly always the wife that received an alimony award. Life is different now. Both spouses usually have jobs or careers and therefore might not have a real need for alimony. It is up to a family court judge to decide.
The purpose of alimony
Alimony in these modern times is awarded only on an as-needed basis. For example, spousal support can help a stay-at-home parent (man or woman) gain more education or undergo technical training. In other words, it must serve a real need. Florida currently offers five forms of spousal support.
- Bridge-the-gap. A spouse can win this type of alimony to transition successfully from married to single. (rent a home, buy a car, etc.).
- Rehabilitative Alimony: This alimony award helps the spouse acquire training or education to become self-sufficient.
- Permanent Alimony: Judges of today order permanent alimony in rare cases, usually when a spouse cannot support themselves (perhaps due to injury, age or illness).
- Durational Alimony: As its name suggests, this alimony lasts for a set amount of time and can help the receiving party get on their financial feet.
- Lump-Sum. You will receive your alimony of property or cash in one lump sum and will not be able to get anything more from your ex-spouse.
As you can see, you have possible options for alimony if you believe you need it to survive or gain financial independence. Understanding Florida spousal support laws can help you demonstrate your need before a family court judge.