In Florida, there are many factors that the Court will use to determine if alimony is awarded. Although all of the other factors must support awarding alimony, the most important factor is the length of the marriage. It is important to understand the effect that the length of your marriage will have on the Court’s determination of alimony.
The length of your marriage is divided into three categories. A marriage of seven years or less is considered short term. If your marriage falls into this category, you will be considered able to earn a living, and it is unlikely that you will receive alimony. A marriage that lasted at least 7 years but less than 17 years is considered a moderate term marriage. A marriage that lasted 17 or more years is considered long term. In a long term marriage, there is a presumption in favor of alimony.
The length of your marriage is only one factor that the Court will use in making a determination of an award of alimony. Seeking competent counsel is the best way to understand all the factors that will be involved in alimony and any other aspect of your divorce. Attorney Wade P. Luther is an experienced divorce lawyer who will discuss your individual circumstances and advise you in how to best proceed. He will help identify your needs both now and for the future. Please contact our office to schedule an initial consultation. We can be reached by phone at (407) 835-9900 or by email.