Couples divorcing in Orange County, Seminole County and Osceola County Florida will need to keep in mind that need and ability to pay will be the first consideration for the court when awarding alimony in a dissolution of marriage matter. Florida statutes state that “In determining whether to award alimony or maintenance, the court shall first make a specific factual determination as to whether either party has an actual need for alimony or maintenance and whether either party has the ability to pay alimony or maintenance.”
Once the determination of need and ability has been made, the court will then consider other statutory factors before ruling on alimony. An award of alimony is an important consideration for both spouses. It can greatly impact the future financial ability of the recipient as well as the payor. If you need more information regarding alimony as it pertains to your specific divorce matter, please contact Family Law of Orlando by email or by calling (407) 835-9900 to schedule an initial consultation with Attorney Wade P. Luther.