Alimony / Spousal Support

Tampa Alimony Attorney

Helping Couples in Florida Establish Fair Spousal Support

Alimony can be one of the most contentious issues between a divorcing couple, besides child support/custody. During a marriage, both parties become accustomed to a certain lifestyle, regardless of which spouse has the higher income. When the marriage ends, it is not unreasonable for either party to attempt to hold onto the life to which they are accustomed.

When your financial freedom is on the line during a divorce, you need a lawyer you can trust to fight for you. Givens Law Group is a family-owned and operated divorce firm in Tampa. Founding Attorney, Stan Givens, is a Certified Family Law Expert with the Florida Bar who has decades of experience representing clients throughout Southern Florida. Both he and the firm have been highly rated by Best Lawyers and Martindale-Hubbell.

Our Tampa alimony lawyer is ready to fight for your need. Call (813) 328-6159 for your consultation.

What is Alimony?

Alimony, also known as spousal support or maintenance, is a legal obligation to financially support one’s former spouse after separation or divorce. Alimony ensures that both spouses can maintain their standard of living after the dissolution of their marriage and it is often awarded in order to lessen any financial difficulty that may be caused by the separation. The goal of alimony is to give both former spouses an equitable financial arrangement and prevent either one from being left with disproportionate resources.

In some cases, alimony payments are not required, and in other cases, a court may order one party to pay alimony while also ordering other types of support, such as child support or property division. If a court decides that alimony is appropriate, it will then determine its amount and duration based on the facts and circumstances of each case.

The rules surrounding alimony can be complex, so if you have questions about spousal support in Louisiana, it is important that you speak with an experienced Tampa alimony attorney who can explain your rights and obligations under state law.

How is Alimony Determined in Florida?

Spousal support is not awarded in every divorce. The court looks at the needs of both parties and whether or not one spouse has the financial ability to meet the needs of the other. Alimony is usually only awarded for a temporary period of time while the payee finds new housing, goes back to school, or looks for new employment.

A divorce judge will generally consider the following factors when determining alimony:

  • The financial resources of each party, non-marital and marital assets, and liabilities distributed to each.
  • The time necessary for either party to acquire sufficient education or training to find appropriate employment.
  • The contribution of each party to the marriage, including, but not limited to, services rendered in homemaking, child care, education, and career building of the other party.
  • The age and the physical and emotional condition of each party.

Impact of Marriage Duration on Alimony

The length of your marriage can include or exclude you from obtaining certain types of alimony. Traditionally, the longer you have been married, the more alimony you are entitled too, but this is not the case in every divorce.

Divorcing couples will fit into one of the following categories:

  • Short-term marriage: lasting less than 10 years
  • Moderate-term marriage: lasting more than 10 years, but fewer than 20
  • Long-term marriage – lasting more than 20 years

Our Tampa alimony attorneys can give you a better understanding of your right to alimony during a case consultation.

    Types of Alimony Available in Tampa, FL

    Florida law allows for alimony when the circumstances are appropriate. There are basically three types: bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, durational.

    • Bridge-the-Gap Alimony: a one time lump payment designed to help the spouse transition to single life, helping cover expenses like a moving van or the down payment on a new dwelling.

    • Rehabilitative Alimony: temporary alimony payments to help a spouse take the necessary steps to improve his or her income, such as recertifying an expire license or completing a degree.

    • Durational Alimony: a set amount to be paid out over a predetermined length of time that is not allowed to exceed the length of the marriage. This type of alimony is better suited for short to mid-length marriages.

    If you have questions about your divorce and alimony situation, please contact one of our Tampa alimony lawyers at Givens Law Group.

    Get Expert Alimony Assistance in Tampa

    Alimony Modification and Enforcement in Tampa

    Can Alimony Be Modified in Florida?

    Yes, alimony can be modified in Florida under certain circumstances. If there is a substantial change in circumstances after the divorce judgment has been entered, the court may modify the award of alimony. A substantial change in circumstance may include changes in income or employment status, medical issues, or remarriage.

    Enforcing Alimony Payments in Florida

    What If My Spouse Refuses to Pay Alimony?

    If your former spouse is not complying with the terms of your alimony order, you have options for enforcement. You can file a motion for contempt to hold your ex-spouse accountable for their non-compliance. Other options include wage garnishment or seeking assistance from the Florida Department of Revenue.

    Our Philosophy

    What Our Family Brings to The Table

    • Our family of attorneys is dedicated to our clients and believe they should all be supported like family.

    • We believe that all family law issues should be resolved in a fair and timely manner. 

    • Our firm uses our decades of experience to provide your family with the knowledge and expertise that you deserve.

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    Why Choose Our Spousal Support Lawyers?

    Choosing the right attorney for your alimony needs can significantly impact the outcome of your divorce, modification, or enforcement proceedings. Our Tampa spousal support lawyers at Givens Law Group offer unparalleled expertise and dedication to ensure that you receive the fair and equitable support you deserve. If you choose our team, your case will benefit from our:

    • Experienced and Certified Experts: Our founding attorney, Stan Givens, is a Certified Family Law Expert with the Florida Bar, boasting decades of experience in family law. This specialized expertise allows us to navigate the complexities of alimony cases effectively.
    • Personalized Attention: We understand that every client's situation is unique. Our attorneys offer personalized legal strategies tailored to your specific circumstances, ensuring that your needs and goals are prioritized.
    • Proven Track Record: Givens Law Group has been highly rated by Best Lawyers and Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting our consistent success and commitment to client satisfaction. Our proven track record assures you that we have the skills and knowledge to advocate for your best interests.
    • Comprehensive Legal Services: Whether you are seeking alimony during a divorce, need an existing alimony agreement modified due to changes in circumstances, or require enforcement of spousal support orders, our team is equipped to handle all aspects of your case.
    • Compassionate Guidance: Divorce and financial disputes can be emotionally draining. Our compassionate lawyers provide empathetic support and clear guidance throughout the legal process, helping to alleviate stress and uncertainty.
    • Local Expertise: As a family-owned and operated firm in Tampa, we have an in-depth understanding of Florida's alimony laws and local court procedures. This local expertise allows us to provide knowledgeable and effective representation.

    By choosing our spousal support lawyers, you are opting for a team committed to securing your financial future and ensuring a fair outcome in your alimony case.

    Consult with a Certified Family Law Expert at Givens Law Group

    As Tampa alimony lawyers, our goal is to fight for fair spousal support for our clients so that they can retain as much of their previous lifestyle as possible. With a Certified Family Law Expert on your side, you can be confident that your case will be handled with skill and dedication.

    Contact Givens Law Group at (813) 328-6159 today for a consultation and let us help you navigate your spousal support needs with confidence.

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    At Givens Law Group, your family is our family. As such, we promise to fight for each client and voraciously protect their best interests.
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