Alimony Lawyer Miami
Divorce can bring significant financial changes, and one of the most contested issues is alimony (spousal support). Whether you are seeking alimony, contesting an unfair request, or modifying an existing support order, understanding Florida’s alimony laws is crucial. The amount, type, and duration of alimony depend on multiple factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial situation, and contributions to the marriage.
At Cruz Legal, P.A., attorney Marisol Cruz is an experienced Miami alimony lawyer who helps clients fight for fair spousal support agreements. Whether you are requesting support or defending against an unfair claim, we are committed to protecting your financial interests.
What Is Alimony in Florida?
Alimony is financial support paid by one spouse to the other after a divorce to help the lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability. However, alimony is not automatic—the requesting spouse must first prove financial need, and the paying spouse must have the ability to pay. These are only the threshold factors; once established, the court considers numerous other factors, such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, and the standard of living during the marriage.
Types of Alimony in Florida
Florida courts may award different types of alimony, depending on the circumstances of the marriage and each spouse’s needs.
1. Temporary Alimony
- Awarded during the divorce process
- Ends once the divorce is finalized
- Helps a lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability
2. Bridge-the-Gap Alimony
- Short-term support (cannot exceed 2 years)
- Helps a spouse transition to post-divorce life
- Covers immediate needs, such as securing housing
3. Rehabilitative Alimony
- Helps a spouse gain education, training, or job skills
- Must be based on a specific rehabilitation plan
- Can be modified or terminated if circumstances change
4. Durational Alimony
- Available in some short-term, and also in moderate and long-term marriages
- Provides support for a set number of years
- Cannot exceed the length of the marriage
5. Permanent Alimony (No Longer Available as of 2023)
Important Update: In July 2023, Florida eliminated permanent alimony. This means no spouse can receive lifetime alimony. Instead, durational alimony is awarded in most cases.
If you need help understanding how these new laws affect your case, we can provide guidance and legal representation.
Who Qualifies for Alimony in Florida?
To qualify for alimony, the requesting spouse must prove financial need, and the other spouse must have the ability to pay. Florida courts consider:
- The length of the marriage
- Each spouse’s financial situation
- Standard of living established during the marriage
- Each spouse’s earning capacity and job opportunities
- Contributions to the marriage (homemaking, childcare, etc.)
- Age and health of each spouse
How the Length of Marriage Affects Alimony
Florida law divides marriages into:
- Short-Term Marriage – Less than 10 years (alimony is rarely awarded)
- Moderate-Term Marriage – Between 10 and 20 years (alimony is possible)
- Long-Term Marriage – Over 20 years (alimony is more likely)
If you are worried about paying or receiving spousal support, we can assess your case and determine your best legal options.
Can Alimony Be Modified or Terminated?
Yes, in most circumstances alimony can be modified or terminated if there is a substantial change in circumstances. You may be able to reduce or eliminate alimony if:
- The receiving spouse remarries or lives with a new partner
- The receiving spouse becomes financially independent
- The paying spouse loses their job or experiences financial hardship
- The paying spouse retires at a reasonable age
If you need to modify an alimony order, we can file a petition for modification and present evidence to the court.
Defending Against Unfair Alimony Claims
Many spouses worry about being forced to pay unfair alimony amounts. If your spouse is demanding more than what is reasonable, we can help you fight back.
- Proving that your spouse does not need alimony
- Challenging false financial claims
- Demonstrating your inability to pay the requested amount
- Filing for modification if your financial situation changes
If you believe your ex-spouse does not actually need financial support, we will work to challenge their alimony claim.
Alimony and Retirement: Do You Have to Keep Paying?
A major concern for paying spouses is whether alimony continues after retirement. Florida law allows retirees to request a reduction or termination of alimony if they:
- Retire at a reasonable age
- Have a lower income after retirement
- No longer have the ability to pay alimony
If you are nearing retirement and are worried about continued alimony payments, we can help you petition for termination.
Why Hire a Miami Alimony Lawyer?
Whether you are requesting alimony, contesting an unfair demand, or seeking modifications, having an experienced lawyer can make all the difference.
- Ensures fair calculations based on Florida law
- Protects you from excessive or unfair alimony payments
- Advocates for your financial security during and after divorce
- Represents you in court if a dispute arises
At Cruz Legal, P.A., we fight to secure fair alimony agreements that protect your financial well-being.
Why Choose Cruz Legal, P.A.?
Experienced Alimony Attorney
Competent Legal Representation
Bilingual Legal Services
Personalized Legal Strategies
Schedule a Consultation with a Miami Alimony Lawyer
If you need help securing, contesting, or modifying alimony in Miami, we are ready to fight for your financial future.
Call us today or fill out our online contact form to schedule a confidential consultation with alimony lawyer Marisol Cruz.
Get the legal support you need today!