Is There Any Point in Modifying Short-Term Alimony in Orlando?

Due to recent changes to Florida’s spousal support laws, most alimony ends relatively quickly. Although there are many exceptions, a common form of alimony today is rehabilitative – lasting only long enough to help recipients get back on their feet. With such a short duration of payments, you might wonder whether there is any point in modifying this agreement. An alimony lawyer in Orlando may be able to help you tackle this issue.

Weighing the Costs and Benefits of an Alimony Modification 

First, you should know that modifying your alimony payments is not a simple process. You must file a petition with the family court first, and you must prove that you have experienced a substantial change in circumstance. This change in circumstance should be financial in nature, affecting your ability to pay alimony. The primary examples are disabilities and changes in employment.

If you want to file your petition for modification, be prepared to incur significant legal expenses. Although these costs are not crippling by any measure, you should compare them to the money you stand to save with lower alimony payments. Some people pay relatively high alimony payments, especially after emerging from high-net-worth divorces. For others, these payments could be relatively low.

The benefits of modifying your alimony payments depend entirely on your unique circumstances. If you only have a few years of alimony payments to worry about and these payments are relatively low, it may not make sense to incur significant legal fees for a modification.

Regardless of how much you stand to save, you should also consider the time you’ll spend navigating this legal process. Various hearings may be necessary, and going back to court after a divorce can be quite stressful. The thought of more legal complexities could be daunting, especially if you’re simultaneously working a full-time job.

Try to Work Out a Deal in Private 

You may be able to modify your alimony agreement without going to court. If you and your ex are on relatively good terms, you could meet with them and discuss the financial changes you have experienced. Your ex might be willing to receive lower payments, especially if they see that your financial struggles are legitimate.

When Is Modifying Alimony Worth the Trouble?

 Generally speaking, modifying an alimony agreement is worth it if you face many years of continued payments. You should also consider modifying your alimony if these continued payments are relatively high. High-net-worth individuals may weigh the pros and cons before determining that a modification is a worthwhile investment.

Can an Orlando Alimony Lawyer Help Me? 

If you want to determine whether it’s worth modifying your alimony in Orlando, you might want to speak with a lawyer. These legal professionals can analyze your specific situation and help you determine whether a modification is worth your time and money. In contrast, online research may not give you the same level of personalized guidance. Reach out to Steve Marsee, P.A. today to get started.

Sources:

 leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.08.html

flcourts.gov/content/download/685832/file_pdf/904b.pdf