Miami Alimony Attorneys
Tailored Guidance Through Spousal Support Matters in Miami
Alimony, also known as spousal support, may be is established during a divorce. Florida law changed effective July 1, 2023. As a result of the changes to the in Florida la, the amount and duration of alimony is now determined by alimony guidelines. Permanent alimony has been eliminated as a form of support. However, several other forms of alimony may still be available depending on many factors. Other forms of alimony are still available. These include temporary alimony, bridge-the-gap alimony, rehabilitative alimony, and durational alimony.
Your financial security matters. Call (305) 222-7442 or contact Leinoff & Lemos to consult with our Miami alimony attorneys today.
How Is Alimony Determined in Miami?
Alimony is based on one party’s need for support and the other party’s ability to pay support. Having an experienced lawyer help you understand your entitlement to support or your potential support obligation is important.
The following factors are carefully considered in Miami alimony cases:
- The age and health of the party seeking support
- The party’s educational background and work history
- The contributions to the marriage, such as childcare and household duties
- The career interruption of a spouse to assist the other spouse in advancing a career
- The disparity in earnings between the parties
In Miami-Dade County, local courts carefully consider not just the statutory factors but also the practical realities of living expenses unique to the family. If a case involves complex assets such as business interests or investment properties, the court may require additional financial evidence and sometimes a professional valuation, particularly in high-net-worth matters. At Leinoff & Lemos, our Miami alimony lawyers regularly prepare financial affidavits and gather supporting documents to make a strong case for fair support arrangements, whether you are seeking or contesting alimony.
Understanding the Different Types of Alimony in Florida
Due to the changes in Florida alimony laws in 2023, it’s important to understand the different types of alimony that may be awarded during a divorce. At Leinoff & Lemos, our Miami alimony attorneys can help you navigate these changes and determine which type of alimony may apply to your situation.
Temporary Alimony
Temporary alimony is awarded to provide financial support to a spouse during the divorce process. This alimony is intended to assist the lower-earning spouse to maintain a reasonable standard of living necessary to cover essential expenses until the final divorce decree is issued.
Bridge-the-Gap Alimony
Bridge-the-gap alimony is intended to help a spouse transition from married life to being single. It covers legitimate, easily identifiable short-term needs and is limited to a maximum of two years. This type of alimony cannot be modified once awarded.
Rehabilitative Alimony
Rehabilitative alimony is available to assist a spouse in becoming self-sufficient. This support covers costs for education, training, or work experience the spouse needs to re-enter the workforce. A specific and defined rehabilitative plan must be submitted to the court for approval.
Durational Alimony
Durational alimony provides financial help for a set period following the end of a marriage. The length of durational alimony depends on the duration of the marriage, and it is not available for marriages lasting less than three years. The duration is capped at 50% of a short-term marriage (less than 10 years), 60% of a moderate-term marriage (10 to 20 years), or 75% of a long-term marriage (20 years or longer). The amount is calculated based on a number of alternatives.
Modifying or Terminating Alimony in Miami
After a court issues an alimony order, changes in financial situation, employment, or personal needs or ability to pay may lead to a request to modify or terminate support. In Miami, alimony orders can be revised when there is a substantial and permanent change in either party’s circumstances, such as:
- Significant income changes for either spouse, such as a job loss or a promotion
- Remarriage or a supportive relationship involving the recipient
- Retirement of the paying spouse, resulting in lower income
- Serious health issues affecting either party’s earning ability
Understanding the process for modifying or ending alimony is crucial for both paying and receiving parties. If you are considering requesting a modification, you may need to file the proper pleading with the court and provide detailed financial disclosures. Courts in Miami assess these requests carefully, examining the reason for the change and whether it is permanent or temporary. Some types of alimony, such as bridge-the-gap alimony, cannot be modified under Florida law. Our team of alimony attorneys in Miami helps guide clients through this process, ensuring all legal requirements are met and your interests are represented fairly in court.
Why Choose Leinoff & Lemos for Your Miami Alimony Case?
When you are facing the complexities of alimony, having the right legal team on your side can make a real difference. At Leinoff & Lemos, we know that every case is unique and requires a tailored approach. Our alimony attorneys are dedicated to providing the information and support your need to work toward a favorable resolution in your alimony matter.
Here are some reasons why clients in Miami trust us with their alimony cases:
- Extensive experience: Our attorneys have many years of practice with family law matters, including alimony disputes. We provide knowledgeable representation throughout your case.
- Personalized attention: We listen to your concerns and adjust our legal strategies to meet your specific needs and goals.
- Proven track record: Our firm has successfully represented many clients in alimony matters, helping them secure support arrangements that are fair and reasonable.
- Compassionate support: Family law issues can be emotionally challenging. Our team is here to offer thoughtful, understanding guidance every step of the way.
- Comprehensive resources: We utilize a network of financial professionals and mediators to ensure all aspects of your case are addressed effectively.
When you choose Leinoff & Lemos, you are partnering with a team that genuinely cares about your future. Let us help you address alimony matters so you can focus on what is most important—your family and your peace of mind.
Contact our Miami alimony attorneys to schedule a consultation and discuss your spousal support options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take to Resolve an Alimony Case in Miami?
The time needed to resolve an alimony case varies based on the complexity of financial issues, whether parties can agree, and the court’s schedule. Some cases take a few months, but matters with business assets or high net worth may take over a year in Miami-Dade Family Court.
Are Alimony Payments Tax-Deductible in Florida?
Under current federal law, alimony payments made under agreements executed after January 1, 2019, are not tax-deductible for the person paying and are not considered taxable income for the recipient. Always consult a tax professional about your specific circumstances to remain in compliance.
Can Alimony Be Awarded If the Marriage Lasted Less Than Three Years?
Generally, durational alimony cannot be awarded for marriages lasting under three years in Florida. However, other forms of relief may be available depending on the specific facts of the case. It is important to consult with an attorney about your eligibility.
