Tampa Spousal Support Attorneys

Spousal support, also known as alimony, is a financial obligation one spouse may owe the other during or after a divorce. In Tampa, Florida, the court evaluates several factors to determine if alimony should be awarded and the amount. A judge will primarily consider the recipient spouse’s financial needs and the paying spouse’s ability to provide support. If you’re seeking spousal support or need to defend against a claim, having experienced legal guidance is crucial. At Florida Law Advisers, P.A., we’re here to assist you.

What is Spousal Support?

Spousal support ensures that both parties can maintain a standard of living after divorce. It prevents one spouse from being at a financial disadvantage solely because the marriage ended. The goal is to provide financial assistance, helping both spouses move forward on equal footing.

How Is Spousal Support Determined in Tampa?

Alimony is not automatically awarded in every divorce case. Tampa judges assess both spouses’ financial needs and whether the higher-earning spouse can afford to provide support. Alimony can be temporary, but in some cases, it may last for an extended period. Factors that influence alimony decisions include:

• The financial resources of both spouses
• The division of assets
• The time needed for education or training for employment
• Contributions made to the marriage, such as homemaking and childcare
• The physical and mental health of each spouse

Each case is unique, and a judge may consider other circumstances when making a decision.

The Length of Marriage and Spousal Support

The length of the marriage impacts eligibility for alimony:

• Short-term marriages: Less than 10 years
• Moderate-term marriages: 10–20 years
• Long-term marriages: More than 20 years

Spousal support is more likely for longer marriages.

Types of Spousal Support in Tampa

Florida offers several types of alimony:

• Pendente lite: Temporary support during divorce proceedings.
• Bridge the gap: Support to help a spouse transition to financial independence.
• Rehabilitative: Support to help a spouse gain education or job training.
• Durational: Short-term support for a specific number of years, typically in shorter marriages.

As of July 2023, permanent alimony is no longer available for divorces finalized after that date.

Factors Considered by the Court

When deciding whether to award alimony, courts consider:

• The standard of living during the marriage
• The marriage’s duration
• Age, physical health, and emotional condition of both spouses
• Each spouse’s employability, education, and vocational skills
• Custody of children

Contact Our Tampa Spousal Support Attorneys Today

If you’re navigating a divorce and need assistance with alimony or challenging a spousal support claim, our team at Florida Law Advisers, P.A. is here to help. Call 800-990-7763 today for a consultation or contact us online for the legal support you need.