Modifying Spousal Support in Fort Lauderdale Divorce Cases
Spousal support or alimony in Fort Lauderdale can help you financially recover after a Broward County divorce. Spousal support is determined in divorce proceedings. If circumstances change, you may be entitled to request modifications.
Whether you are paying or receiving alimony, understanding your rights regarding modifications can help protect your current and future financial security. Our Fort Lauderdale alimony lawyer explains what you need to know.
When Can You Modify Fort Lauderdale Spousal Support Orders?
Alimony is available in Fort Lauderdale divorce cases in which one party makes significantly less than the other or sacrificed their career or education for the marriage. It helps you make the financial adjustment to living alone while providing the time you need to get an education or take other steps to reenter the workforce.
Spousal support payments are not necessarily set in stone. Under Section 61.14 of the Florida Statutes, you can request modifications to your Broward County alimony order if a substantial change in circumstances makes the current order unfair or unreasonable. In Fort Lauderdale divorce cases, this often includes:
- Changes in income or financial circumstances: A significant increase or decrease in either party’s income or assets can warrant modifications.
- Remarriage or cohabitation: If the spouse receiving alimony remarries or starts living with a new partner, the one paying can request a reduction or termination of alimony.
- Health issues: If either spouse develops a medical condition that affects their earning ability, this may be grounds for modification.
- Retirement: When a paying spouse reaches retirement age or retires early, they may petition the court to modify or end alimony obligations.
The court will consider these and other factors in evaluating the fairness of the current spousal support order.
How To Request Alimony Modifications In Fort Lauderdale
If you believe you are entitled to a modification of your alimony order, here’s what you need to know:
- You need evidence: When seeking alimony modifications through the Broward County Family Court, you must provide evidence supporting your request. This could include proof of income changes, medical records, or other relevant financial information.
- File a petition with the court: To request modifications in alimony or other family court orders, you need to file a legal petition outlining the changes in circumstances and why the modification is necessary.
- Attend a court hearing: The court will schedule a hearing so the judge in your case can review the evidence and determine whether a modification is warranted. Be prepared to present your case in a clear and organized manner.
To Request Modifications In Your Order, Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Spousal Support Lawyer
Alimony modifications in Fort Lauderdale are not automatic. The court must be convinced that a substantial change in circumstances justifies altering the terms of the original order. For the best possible outcome, get professional legal help.
Fort Lauderdale spousal support lawyer Vanessa L. Prieto provides trusted legal guidance in navigating the modification process and takes the legal actions needed to protect your rights and financial interests. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.14.html
browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family
