How does alimony awarded from one spouse to another in Central Florida divorces effect the equitable distribution of the parties’ assets and liabilities? Florida law states that the court may provide for equitable distribution of the marital assets and liabilities without regard to alimony for either party. After the determination of an equitable distribution of the marital property, the court shall consider whether a judgment for alimony shall be made.
What this means for couples involved in a Central Florida divorce is that the court will not consider the need for alimony until all of the assets and liabilities are equitably distributed. After distribution of the assets and liabilities, the court will consider the parties’ respective financial situations. That provision may actually eliminate the need for alimony in some cases, particularly if a substantial amount of income producing assets are awarded to the party seeking alimony
Alimony and equitable distribution are both important considerations in any Central Florida divorce. If you would like to discuss these or any other issue in your OsceolaCounty or OrangeCounty divorce, contact Family Law of Orlando to schedule an initial consultation with Attorney Wade P. Luther. Contact our office by email or by calling (407) 835-9900.