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Skilled Legal Guidance On Spousal Support In Florida

Divorce often comes with the difficult question of financial security, especially for a spouse who may have relied on the other for income. Whether it’s called spousal maintenance or alimony, the question of one spouse continuing to support the other financially is always a hard question. And it’s not just one question. It’s a lot of them.

At The Law Office of Tonya D. Cromartie, P.A., attorney Tonya Cromartie has extensive experience in providing family law service and insight to people across Daytona. She understands Florida law, but more than that she understands your that your situation is unique. She listens closely and answers all of your questions, such as:

Will I have to pay – or will I receive – alimony?

Whether or not you pay or receive alimony depends a great deal on the exact circumstances you find yourself in during your divorce. Alimony is not an automatic situation. The court must assess the financial resources of both.

However, if one of the parties in the divorce is significantly dependent on the income of the other, there is a strong chance of an alimony order.

How much will alimony be?

The amount you pay in alimony is, once more, entirely dependent on a number of factors. The court will look to several factors to decide whether alimony is appropriate, such as:

  • Length of the marriage: Short-term (under seven years), moderate-term (seven to 17 years) or long-term (over 17 years) marriages are all treated differently.
  • Financial resources: The court reviews each spouse’s income, assets and estimated ability to earn in the future.
  • Standard of living: The lifestyle maintained during the marriage is considered when setting support.
  • Contributions to the marriage: Both financial and nonfinancial contributions, such as homemaking or raising children, play a role.
  • Health and age: A spouse’s physical and emotional health can affect their ability to earn a living.

The law also can consider “any other factor necessary to do equity and justice” in this calculation. With all those moving parts any estimate you get will be subject to a great deal of change.

Will the amounts ever change?

The amount you pay or receive in alimony can change if you pursue a modification. However, a modification is not automatic. If your circumstances change you will have to go to the court to petition a change in the payment amounts.

Attorney Cromartie understands that spousal support discussions can be emotionally charged and financially impactful. She will advocate for your best interests, whether you’re seeking alimony or opposing an unjust request. With a focus on personalized attention and strong representation, she will help you achieve a fair and just outcome.

When can I stop paying alimony?

Primarily there are 4 types of alimony, each with differing lengths of time:

  • Bridge-the-gap alimony: Short-term support to transition to single life
  • Rehabilitative alimony: Helps a spouse gain education or job skills
  • Durational alimony: Support for a set period, often in moderate-term marriages
  • Permanent alimony: Long-term support, typically in long marriages, until remarriage or death

In all cases but “permanent” the intention of the support arrangement is to be temporary. How long it lasts, however, will be determined by the court. By understanding the different types of alimony, you can be better prepared for what to expect. Each type has its own purpose, tailored to meet specific financial needs.

Get The Answers You Deserve

Attorney Tonya Cromartie is available to answer all your questions about divorce and alimony. Call the office at or send an email using this form.