I Paid Educational Expenses Leading to a Medical Career for My Wife. Can I Obtain Spousal Support in Our Divorce Settlement?

Florida law does not guarantee spousal support (alimony) for either party in a divorce.  An experienced Orlando spousal support lawyer can help clients develop valid cases for alimony — whether in court or through a negotiated out-of-court settlement.

The courts favorably consider spousal support for an individual who financially contributed to the ability of a spouse to have a well-paying career. However, even an individual who made no financial contribution to the education of a spouse can pursue some form of rehabilitative alimony. One party may need temporary financial assistance to transition to single life, according to the Divorce in Florida Pamphlet available from the Florida Bar. Another example might be a spouse who needs to obtain training or bridge the gap until he or she has the opportunity to find employment and build funds after years of caring for the children in the home.

Judges consider many complex factors when attempting to develop an equitable settlement in challenging circumstances, and dedicated spousal support awards attorneys use similar considerations when pursuing alimony settlement for their clients. For example, when the nature of marital property makes equitable division virtually impossible, such as might be the case when the primary asset is a family business, one way to address issues such as future anticipated profits might involve awarding periodic or a single lump sum payment to the party who walks away from the business.

Florida law offers no assurances that either spouse can receive permanent or even temporary spousal support. However, alimony provides an important tool in helping ensure an equitable settlement. The Law Offices of Steve W. Marsee, P.A. has more than a decade of experience guiding clients through spousal support and other settlement issues of divorce.