Can You Get Temporary Alimony During A Fort Lauderdale Divorce?

A Fort Lauderdale divorce can turn your finances upside down, particularly if you relied on your spouse for financial support. Fortunately, Florida law allows for temporary alimony during divorce proceedings. This helps ensure that one spouse isn’t left without resources while the case is pending.

If you’re in the middle of a separation and unsure how to cover your living expenses, contact our experienced Fort Lauderdale alimony lawyer to see how we can help.

What Is Temporary Alimony and Who Qualifies for It in Fort Lauderdale?

Temporary alimony, or pendente lite alimony, is financial support one spouse may have to pay the other during divorce proceedings. This type of spousal support begins once a divorce petition is filed and ends when a final divorce judgment is issued.

Under Section 61 of the Florida Statutes, the court has the authority to grant temporary alimony based on need and ability to pay. The goal is to help maintain the financial status quo until a final divorce order is entered. You may be entitled to temporary alimony in a Broward County divorce if:

• You were dependent on your spouse during the marriage and relied on them for financial support.
• You need help covering basic expenses such as housing, utilities, or food.
• Your spouse has the financial means to contribute to your support.
• You are actively seeking work or undergoing job training but haven’t reached self-sufficiency yet.

Temporary alimony can also include payments for legal fees, health insurance, or costs related to minor children. It can provide much-needed breathing room during what is often a highly stressful time.

How to Request Temporary Alimony in a Fort Lauderdale Divorce

To get temporary alimony in a Fort Lauderdale divorce, your lawyer must file a motion through the Broward County family court requesting support and outlining your financial need.

The judge in your case may schedule a hearing, during which they evaluate each party’s financial situation. Your request for temporary alimony in Fort Lauderdale should contain:

• A Florida financial affidavit detailing your income, expenses, assets, and liabilities;
• Evidence of your expenses, such as rent or mortgage payments, household bills, and childcare costs;
• Proof of your spouse’s ability to pay, such as tax returns, pay stubs, or business income records;
• Supporting evidence, including receipts, bank statements, and medical bills that illustrate current needs.

You also need to clearly state the amount of financial support you seek and why it is justified. The judge may issue a temporary order based on affidavits alone or may hold a formal hearing.

To Protect Your Financial Security In A Broward County Divorce, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Alimony Lawyer

You shouldn’t have to struggle financially while your divorce is pending. At Vanessa L. Prieto Law Offices, we know how critical temporary alimony can be during this transition.

Our experienced Fort Lauderdale alimony lawyer takes legal action to get the support you need to protect your financial security and peace of mind. To learn more about temporary alimony in Broward County, call or contact us online today.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.075.html

flcourts.gov/Resources-Services/Office-of-Family-Courts/Family-Court-in-Florida/Family-Law-Forms/Additional-Supporting-Documents-12.902-Forms-B-J/Family-Law-Financial-Affidavit