Alimony In Initial Divorce Proceedings

Alimony, which is often referred to as spousal support, is money that one spouse provides to another during the divorce proceeding and, in some cases, for an additional period after the divorce is final. The intent is to allow the alimony recipient to maintain a standard of living that was established during the marriage until he or she can become self-sustaining.

Alimony is usually provided in scheduled payments (often monthly) or in a lump-sum payment, although that is less common. As with all other aspects of divorce, if the parties involved can agree to terms of alimony without litigating, the proposed agreement can be submitted for court approval. If the parties cannot reach agreement through negotiation, the court will set the amount and duration of alimony payments.

Protecting Your Interests Regarding Alimony

Whether you expect to pay alimony or receive it, it is important to have a knowledgeable family law attorney in your corner to protect your interests and advocate for a fair result. At the Law Office of Rebekah Brown-Wiseman, P.A., in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, attorney Rebekah Brown-Wiseman has the experience necessary to protect your rights in this regard.

Florida lawmakers frequently make changes to alimony laws. It is important to work with a lawyer like Ms. Brown-Wiseman, who focuses her entire practice on family law and stays abreast of any changes to all Florida family law statutes. She understands the factors that the court will consider when initially determining alimony.

The firm also assists clients with existing alimony orders that may need to be modified or terminated.