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How much alimony will I receive

How much alimony will I receive for divorce in Tampa, Florida?

Posted on Author By family-divorce-attorney

How Much Alimony Will I Receive if I’m Divorcing in Tampa, Florida?

Alimony is one of the most misunderstood and emotionally charged issues in Florida family law. Whether you expect to receive alimony or believe you may be required to pay it, the outcome can have long-term financial consequences.

In Tampa and Hillsborough County, alimony decisions are made under Florida Statute 61.08, and they are highly fact-specific. There is no one-size-fits-all formula.

In this article, Gary Dolgin, a Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law with more than 35 years of experience, explains how alimony is determined in Florida and how courts in Hillsborough County analyze alimony cases.

What is Alimony Under Florida Law?

Alimony (also known as spousal support) is a court-ordered payment from one spouse to the other following a divorce. The purpose of alimony is to help one spouse meet reasonable financial needs when there is a disparity in income or earning capacity.

Florida law does not guarantee alimony in every divorce. Instead, courts evaluate whether alimony is appropriate based on statutory factors and the financial realities of both spouses.

The Two Important Questions in Every Tampa Alimony Case

Before any type or amount of alimony can be awarded, a judge in Hillsborough County must answer two essential questions:

1. Does One Spouse Have a Genuine Financial Need?

The court examines whether one spouse lacks the financial resources to meet reasonable monthly living expenses.
This analysis often includes:

  • Housing and utility costs
  • Food, transportation, and insurance
  • Medical and healthcare expenses
  • Other necessary monthly obligations

2. Does the Other Spouse Have the Ability to Pay?

Even if financial need exists, alimony cannot be awarded unless the other spouse has the financial ability to pay.

Judges consider:

  • Income and earning capacity
  • Assets and liabilities
  • Existing financial responsibilities

If either need or ability to pay is missing, alimony may be denied.

Factors Florida Courts Use to Determine Alimony

After establishing that one spouse has a financial need and the other has the ability to pay, Florida courts evaluate a comprehensive list of statutory factors under Florida Statute 61.08 to determine whether alimony is appropriate, as well as the type, amount, and duration of alimony.

In Tampa and Hillsborough County, judges carefully examine these factors to reach a fair and equitable outcome:

  • Length of the marriage – Florida law categorizes marriages as short-term, moderate-term, or long-term. The length of the marriage plays a significant role in determining whether alimony is awarded and how long it may last.
  • Standard of living established during the marriage -Courts attempt to assess the lifestyle enjoyed during the marriage, including housing, travel, and overall spending patterns, to determine reasonable post-divorce needs.
  • Age and physical and emotional condition of each spouse – Health conditions, disabilities, or age-related limitations may affect a spouse’s ability to work or become self-supporting.
  • Financial resources of each spouse – This includes income, assets, liabilities, and non-marital property available to meet financial needs.
  • Earning capacities, education, and employability – Judges evaluate whether a spouse can realistically become self-supporting and what steps, if any, are required to do so.
  • Contributions to the marriage – Courts recognize both financial and non-financial contributions, including homemaking, child-rearing, and support of the other spouse’s career.
  • Responsibilities for minor children – Ongoing parenting responsibilities may limit a spouse’s ability to work full-time or pursue higher-paying employment.
  • Any other factor necessary to do equity and justice – This provision allows judges in Hillsborough County to consider unique circumstances that may not fit neatly into predefined categories.

Because alimony determinations involve a detailed analysis of these factors, the outcome often depends on how effectively the evidence is presented. Thorough preparation and experienced legal representation can significantly influence how these factors are weighed.

Types of Alimony Available in Florida

Florida recognizes several types of alimony, each serving a distinct purpose:

    • Bridge-the-Gap Alimony: Short-term support designed to help a spouse transition from married life to single life.
    • Rehabilitative Alimony: Support intended to help a spouse gain education, training, or credentials to become self-supporting.
    • Durational Alimony: Support awarded for a set period, typically following a moderate- or long-term marriage.

The type and duration of alimony depend on the facts of the case and the statutory factors.

How Hillsborough County Courts Apply Alimony Law

While alimony laws are statewide, local court experience matters. Judges in Hillsborough County have discretion in how they evaluate evidence and apply the statutory factors.

An attorney familiar with local alimony cases understands:

    • How financial affidavits are scrutinized.
    • What documentation strengthens or weakens an alimony claim
    • How judges assess credibility and lifestyle evidence

This local insight can significantly affect alimony outcomes.</br>

How much alimony will I receive

Determining Alimony in Florida FAQs

Question: How is alimony determined in Florida?
Answer: Alimony in Florida is determined under Florida Statute 61.08. Courts first evaluate whether one spouse has a financial need and whether the other spouse has the ability to pay. If both exist, the judge considers multiple factors such as the length of the marriage, standard of living, earning capacity, health, and contributions to the marriage before deciding the type, amount, and duration of alimony.

Question: Is alimony automatic in a Florida divorce?
Answer: No. Alimony is not automatic in Florida. Even in long-term marriages, a judge must still find that one spouse has a genuine financial need and that the other spouse has the ability to pay. Each alimony case is decided based on its specific facts.

Question: How long does alimony last in Florida?
Answer: The duration of alimony depends on the type of alimony awarded and the facts of the case. Bridge-the-gap alimony is short-term, rehabilitative alimony lasts until the rehabilitation plan is completed, and durational alimony lasts for a set period defined by the court. Alimony does not automatically last forever.

Question: Can alimony be modified in Florida?
Answer: Yes. Alimony may be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant change in income, retirement, illness, or the receiving spouse becoming self-supporting. Modifications require court approval and proper legal proof.

Why Board Certification Matters in Alimony Cases

Alimony cases are financially complex and often highly contested. Board Certification in Marital and Family Law represents the highest level of expertise recognized by the Florida Bar.

With over 35 years of experience, Gary Dolgin brings in-depth knowledge of Florida alimony statutes, extensive experience negotiating and litigating alimony issues, and strategic advocacy tailored to each client’s financial circumstances.

At The Law Offices of Gary Dolgin, alimony cases are handled with precision, professionalism, and care because we understand how impactful alimony outcomes can be on the lives of the parties involved.

If you have questions about alimony in Tampa or Hillsborough County, it’s important to get clear legal guidance early. Alimony determinations can affect your financial stability for years to come.

The Law Offices of Gary Dolgin proudly serve clients throughout Tampa and Hillsborough County, providing detailed guidance and strong representation in alimony matters.

To schedule an alimony consultation with Gary S. Dolgin, Attorney At Law, call (813) 999-2772 and it will be our pleasure to help you.

To see what past clients have to say about retaining Gary Dolgin for alimony assistance, and to learn more about alimony, visit:
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Best Alimony Attorney Tampa - Understanding the Types of Alimony in Florida

What Are The Types of Alimony in Florida

Posted on Author By family-divorce-attorney

What Are The Types of Alimony in Florida – Understanding Alimony in Florida Dissolution of Marriage Proceedings

In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage (divorce) in Florida, the court has the authority to grant alimony to either spouse. Alimony is financial support provided by one spouse to the other and can take various forms depending on the specific circumstances of the case. The primary goal is to ensure fairness and economic balance post-divorce. Here’s a detailed look at the types of alimony, the payment structures, and the factors influencing the court’s decisions.

Types of Alimony

Temporary Alimony

Temporary alimony is awarded to support a spouse during the divorce proceedings. For example, if one spouse has been a homemaker and lacks immediate income, the court may grant temporary alimony to cover living expenses until the divorce is finalized.

Bridge-the-Gap Alimony

Bridge-the-gap alimony helps a spouse transition from married life to single life, covering short-term needs. This type of alimony is typically limited to a maximum of two years. For instance, it might cover the cost of moving to a new residence or other short-term expenses.

Rehabilitative Alimony

Rehabilitative alimony is designed to assist a spouse in becoming self-sufficient through education, training, or work experience. The receiving spouse must present a specific plan outlining the steps to achieve financial independence. For example, if a spouse needs to complete a degree or vocational training to re-enter the workforce, rehabilitative alimony would cover the associated costs.

Durational Alimony

Durational alimony may be awarded to provide a party with economic assistance for a set period of time. An award of durational alimony terminates upon the death of either party or upon the remarriage of the obligee. Durational alimony may not be awarded following a marriage lasting less than 3 years. An award of durational alimony may not exceed 50 percent of the length of a short-term marriage, 60 percent of the length of a moderate-term marriage, or 75 percent of the length of a long-term marriage. Under exceptional circumstances, the court may extend the term of durational alimony.

Payment Structures

Periodic Payments

The court may order alimony to be paid periodically, typically monthly. For example, the paying spouse might be required to pay $1,000 per month for a specified duration. This method ensures a steady stream of income for the receiving spouse.

Lump Sum Payments

Alternatively, the court may award alimony as a lump sum payment. This could occur when dividing substantial marital assets, where one spouse might receive a one-time payment instead of ongoing support. For instance, instead of monthly payments, the paying spouse might provide a single payment of $50,000 to cover alimony obligations.

Consideration of Adultery and Economic Impact

Adultery and Alimony Awards

In determining the amount and type of alimony, the court may consider the adultery of either spouse and any resulting economic impact. For example, if one spouse’s adultery led to significant financial expenditures, such as lavish gifts for someone or using marital funds for extramarital activities, the court may adjust the alimony award to account for this economic impact.

Example Scenario

Suppose during the marriage, the husband engaged in an extramarital affair and spent considerable marital assets on the affair, including expensive trips and gifts. The wife, seeking a divorce, can present this evidence in court. The court may then consider these expenditures when determining the alimony award, potentially increasing the alimony to compensate for the financial misconduct.

Factors Influencing Alimony Decisions

The court considers various factors to determine the appropriateness and amount of alimony, including:
– The standard of living established during the marriage
– The duration of the marriage
– The age and physical and emotional condition of each spouse
– The financial resources and income potential of each spouse
– The contributions of each spouse to the marriage, including homemaking and childcare
– The responsibilities each spouse will have with regard to any minor children they have in common

Example Considerations

-Standard of Living: If the couple enjoyed a high standard of living during their marriage, the court may aim to allow both parties to maintain a similar standard post-divorce, to the extent possible.
– Duration of Marriage: In a marriage of 15 years, the court might lean towards awarding durational alimony to provide financial support to the lower-earning spouse for a period equivalent to the marriage duration.
– Health and Age: If one spouse is significantly older or has health issues that limit their earning potential, the court may award more substantial or longer-term alimony.

Alimony is a critical aspect of divorce proceedings in Florida, designed to ensure fairness and support for both parties as they transition to independent lives. The court’s decision on the type, amount, and duration of alimony considers various factors, including the contributions and needs of each spouse, as well as any misconduct like adultery that has had an economic impact. Understanding these aspects can help divorcing spouses prepare for the financial implications of dissolution and seek fair support arrangements.

If you or someone you know is facing divorce, and need the guidance of an experienced divorce attorney who can assist you in understanding your alimony rights and obligations, don’t hesitate to look for the best alimony attorney in Tampa who can help you navigate the Florida alimony laws during your divorce.

Alimony Law Firm Tampa

Alimony Law Firm Tampa Explains Factor k of The Supportive Relationship Statute in Florida

Posted on Author By family-divorce-attorney

In the State of Florida, the supportive relationship statute allows the payor of alimony to have their alimony obligation reduced or terminated if their ex-spouse is in a supportive relationship.

The court shall consider and make written findings of fact regarding all relevant facts and additional factors.

Factor k. to be considered is:

“The extent to which the obligee and the other person have provided support to the children or other family members of one another, regardless of any legal duty to do so.”

This factor is aimed at understanding the level of mutual support and care within the family unit.

An example of this may be, if the other person has a child from a previous relationship, and the obligee has been actively involved in the child’s life, providing emotional and financial support, attending school events, and taking care of the child when the other person is at work.

This statute would allow the court to consider the support the obligee has provided to the other person’s family members, even though they are not legally obligated to do so.

This support may influence decisions regarding the supportive relationship and the alimony obligation, as it demonstrates the level of commitment and involvement within the other person’s family.

Here at The Law Offices of Gary S. Dolgin, we will put our knowledge and 33 years of experience to work for you, whether you are seeking an alimony modification or defending a modification of alimony.

Being Board Certified in Marital and Family Law as well as being a Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator sets Gary Dolgin apart. He will put his expertise to work for you and advocate for the best possible result in your alimony case.

To schedule an alimony consultation with Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law in Tampa, Gary S. Dolgin, please call (813) 999-2772, and it will be our pleasure to help you.

Learn more about alimony by visiting:
Alimony Modification Lawyer Tampa, Gary S. Dolgin

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Tampa Alimony Attorney

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Alimony Modification Lawyer Tampa

Alimony Modification Lawyer Tampa Gary Dolgin Explains Supportive Relationship Factor j.

Posted on Author By family-divorce-attorney

In the State of Florida, the supportive relationship statute allows the payor of alimony to have their alimony obligation reduced or terminated if their ex-spouse is in a supportive relationship.

The court shall consider and make written findings of fact regarding all relevant facts and additional factors.

Factor j. to be considered is:

“The extent to which the obligor has paid the existing alimony award or failed to do so and the existence and amount of any arrearage.”

Arrearage refers to the amount of past-due payments that the obligor owes. This could occur if the obligor has failed to make payments on time or in full.

This factor requires consideration of whether there are any arrearages, and if so, the amount owed.

Arrearages can accumulate due to various reasons such as financial hardship, negligence, or deliberate non-compliance.

Here at The Law Offices of Gary S. Dolgin, we will put our knowledge and 33 years of experience to work for you, whether you are seeking an alimony modification or defending a modification of alimony.

Being Board Certified in Marital and Family Law as well as being a Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator sets Gary Dolgin apart. He will put his expertise to work for you and advocate for the best possible result in your alimony case.

To schedule an alimony consultation with Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law in Tampa, Gary S. Dolgin, please call (813) 999-2772, and it will be our pleasure to help you.

Learn more about alimony by visiting:
Alimony Modification Lawyer Tampa, Gary S. Dolgin

Google Business Page:
Tampa Alimony Attorney

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Alimony Payments Lawyer Tampa

Alimony Payments Lawyer Tampa Bay Gary Dolgin Explains Supportive Relationship Factor i.

Posted on Author By family-divorce-attorney

In the State of Florida, the supportive relationship statute allows the payor of alimony to have their alimony obligation reduced or terminated if their ex-spouse is in a supportive relationship.

The court shall consider and make written findings of fact regarding all relevant facts and additional factors.

Factor i. to be considered is:

“The extent to which the obligee and the other person have an express or implied agreement regarding property sharing or financial support.”

For example, a couple may be living together and have a verbal agreement in which one party contributes to the household expenses while the other covers the mortgage payments.

It may also be that they have discussed and agreed upon saving jointly for future investments such as a vacation or a new car.

In this scenario, their verbal agreements and shared financial responsibilities demonstrate an implied agreement regarding property sharing and financial support, even though they are not legally bound by marriage.

Here at The Law Offices of Gary S. Dolgin, we will put our knowledge and 33 years of experience to work for you, whether you are seeking alimony or defending a claim against alimony.

To schedule an alimony consultation with Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law in Tampa, Gary S. Dolgin, please call (813) 999-2772, and it will be our pleasure to help you.

Learn more about alimony by visiting:
Tampa Spousal Support Lawyer, Gary S. Dolgin

Tampa Spousal Support Lawyer

Tampa Spousal Support Lawyer Explains Factor h. Regarding Supportive Relationships in Florida

Posted on Author By family-divorce-attorney

In the State of Florida, the supportive relationship statute allows the payor of alimony to have their alimony obligation reduced or terminated if their ex-spouse is in a supportive relationship.

The court shall consider and make written findings of fact regarding all relevant facts and additional factors.

Factor h. to be considered is:

“The extent to which the obligee and the other person have jointly contributed to the purchase of any real or personal property.”

For example, have the two parties purchased a new home together such as their primary residence or a vacation home?

“Real property” refers to land and any permanent structures on it and generally includes land, houses and unextracted natural resources.

“Personal property” refers to anything else you can own.

Situations where the obligee and the other person have contributed jointly to the purchase of real or personal property could be considered in an alimony modification case.

Here at The Law Offices of Gary S. Dolgin, we will put our knowledge and 33 years of experience to work for you, whether you are seeking alimony or defending a claim against alimony.

Being Board Certified in Marital and Family Law as well as being a Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator sets Gary Dolgin apart. He will put his expertise to work for you and advocate for the best possible result in your alimony case.

To schedule an alimony consultation with Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law in Tampa, Gary S. Dolgin, please call (813) 999-2772, and it will be our pleasure to help you..

Learn more about alimony by visiting:
Tampa Spousal Support Lawyer, Gary S. Dolgin

Best Alimony Lawyer Tampa

Best Alimony Lawyer Tampa – Gary Dolgin Explains Supportive Relationship Statute Factor f.

Posted on Author By family-divorce-attorney

In the State of Florida, the supportive relationship statute allows the payor of alimony to have their alimony obligation reduced or terminated if their ex-spouse is in a supportive relationship.

The court shall consider and make written findings of fact regarding all relevant facts and additional factors.

Factor f. to be considered is:

“The extent to which the obligee or the other person has performed valuable services for the other’s company or employer.”

For example, if the other person provides services for the obligee’s company such as being a consultant, participating in sales and networking, and helping to manage the company’s books, these may be considered valuable services.

These services provide value and a substantial form of support to the obligee and therefore would be considered in an alimony modification case.

Here at The Law Offices of Gary S. Dolgin, we will put our knowledge and 33 years of experience to work for you, whether you are seeking alimony or defending a claim against alimony.

Being Board Certified in Marital and Family Law as well as being a Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator sets Gary Dolgin apart. He will put his expertise to work for you and advocate for the best possible result in your alimony case.

To schedule an alimony consultation with Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law in Tampa, Gary S. Dolgin, please call (813) 999-2772, and it will be our pleasure to help you.

Learn more about alimony by visiting:
Best Alimony Lawyer Tampa, Gary S. Dolgin

Tampa Spousal Support Lawyer - Supportive Relationship Statute Factor e.

Tampa Spousal Support Lawyer Explains Supportive Relationship Statute Factor e. Regarding Valuable Services Performed

Posted on Author By family-divorce-attorney

In the State of Florida, the supportive relationship statute allows the payor of alimony to have their alimony obligation reduced or terminated if their ex-spouse is in a supportive relationship.

The court shall consider and make written findings of fact regarding all relevant facts and additional factors.

Factor e. to be considered is:

“The extent to which the obligee or the other person has performed valuable services for the other.”

For example, if the other person provides services to the obligee such as managing their finances, babysitting, or making home renovations, these may be considered valuable services.

Whether the other party supports the receiver of alimony or the receiver of alimony supports the other party and it can be shown by presenting evidence, the court may conclude that a supportive relationship exists.

Here at The Law Offices of Gary S. Dolgin, we will put our knowledge and 33 years of experience to work for you, whether you are seeking alimony or defending a claim against alimony.

Being Board Certified in Marital and Family Law as well as being a Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator sets Gary Dolgin apart. He will put his expertise to work for you and advocate for the best possible result in your alimony case.

To schedule an alimony consultation with Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law in Tampa, Gary S. Dolgin, please call (813) 999-2772, and it will be our pleasure to help you.

Learn more about alimony by visiting:
Tampa Spousal Support Lawyer, Gary S. Dolgin

Tampa Alimony Lawyer explains supportive relationship statute factor d.

Supportive Relationship Statute Factor d. in Florida Regarding The Extent of Support

Posted on Author By family-divorce-attorney

In the State of Florida, the supportive relationship statute allows the payor of alimony to have their alimony obligation reduced or terminated if their ex-spouse is in a supportive relationship.

The court shall consider and make written findings of fact regarding all relevant facts and additional factors.

Factor d. to be considered is:

“The extent to which the obligee or the other person has supported the other, in whole or in part.”

Whether the other party supports the receiver of alimony or the receiver of alimony supports the other party and it can be shown by presenting evidence, the court may conclude that a supportive relationship exists.

Here at The Law Offices of Gary S. Dolgin, we will put our knowledge and 33 years of experience to work for you, whether you are seeking alimony or defending a claim against alimony.

Being Board Certified in Marital and Family Law as well as being a Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator sets Gary Dolgin apart. He will put his expertise to work for you and advocate for the best possible result in your alimony case.

To schedule an alimony consultation with Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law in Tampa, Gary S. Dolgin, please call (813) 999-2772, and it will be our pleasure to help you.

Learn more about alimony by visiting:
Tampa Alimony Lawyer, Gary S. Dolgin

Tampa Alimony Attorney

Tampa Alimony Attorney Gary Dolgin Explains Supportive Relationship Statute Factor c. Regarding Pooling Assets and Financial Interdependence

Posted on Author By family-divorce-attorney

In the State of Florida, the supportive relationship statute allows the payor of alimony to have their alimony obligation reduced or terminated if their ex-spouse is in a supportive relationship.

The court shall consider and make written findings of fact regarding all relevant facts and additional factors.

Factor c. to be considered is:

“The extent to which the obligee and the other person have pooled their assets or income or otherwise exhibited financial interdependence.”

For example, do they have a joint bank account, or do they share household expenditures?

Here at The Law Offices of Gary S. Dolgin, we will put our knowledge and 33 years of experience to work for you, whether you are seeking alimony or defending a claim against alimony.

Being Board Certified in Marital and Family Law as well as being a Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator sets Gary Dolgin apart. He will put his expertise to work for you and advocate for the best possible result in your alimony case.

To schedule an alimony consultation with Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law in Tampa, Gary S. Dolgin, please call (813) 999-2772, and it will be our pleasure to help you.

Learn more about alimony by visiting:
Tampa Alimony Attorney, Gary S. Dolgin

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