Tampa Alimony Modification Lawyer
In a Florida divorce, the judge may order alimony. This means that the higher earning spouse pays the other spouse to help them maintain their standard of living after a divorce.
However, alimony payments are not always set in stone. Sure, you may be ordered to pay alimony for five, 10 or maybe even 20 years, but a lot can happen in that amount of time. Or as a recipient, you know that the prices of pretty much everything are rising. Money doesn’t go as far as it once did.
So can alimony be changed? It can, if the circumstances warrant it. There would need to be a substantial change in your financial situation. You would need to file a modification in court and have a judge approve it.
The process may take a while, though, so discuss your situation with a lawyer as soon as possible. Contact an experienced Tampa alimony modification lawyer from Faulkner Law Group, PLLC today to see how we can help you.
Reasons for Modification
Life does not remain static. Things are always happening. A person may gain or lose a job. They may get injured and become disabled. They may receive a promotion or a large bonus.
Alimony should reflect what is currently going on in your life. That’s why the Florida courts allow modifications. Alimony modifications can be made when there is a substantial change in finances. Alimony can be increased or decreased as a payer or recipient. If your ability to pay alimony has changed, or your need for alimony as the recipient has changed, you can file a modification. The changes needed to modify alimony for the payer include:
- Substantial long-term loss of income (such as through job loss)
- Significant disability
- Retirement
- Children are now adults
The changes needed to modify alimony for the recipient include:
- Major, permanent change in the recipient’s income
- Increase in the cost of living
- Increases cost of educational expenses (if the recipient is going back to school)
- Receiving a large inheritance or gift
- Remarried or living with a new partner
How Long Does Alimony Last?
Alimony duration can vary depending on the recipient’s situation. For example, for bridge-the-gap alimony, it lasts less than two years, as it is meant to help the recipient transition from married life to single life.
Rehabilitative alimony lasts long enough for the recipient to accomplish their goals, such as education or job training. Durational alimony can last many years — perhaps decades, depending on how long the couple was married. Permanent alimony is awarded in some cases. This lasts until one party dies.
Contact Us Today
Paying alimony may not be a priority to you, but it is to the recipient. It may be their sole source of income. The Faulkner Law Group, PLLC can assess your financial situation and help you understand your legal rights and responsibilities. We can assist you with the modification process. To schedule a consultation with a Tampa alimony modification lawyer, fill out the online form or call (813) 544-3919.
