Spousal Support In Tampa: How To Modify Alimony Payments When Your Financial Situation Changes
Alimony can be one of the most contested issues in a Tampa divorce, and for good reason. Whether you expect to pay or receive support, the outcome can shape your financial life for years after. However, what happens once you get a spousal support order, but your financial circumstances change?
Our experienced Tampa divorce lawyer provides trusted legal help to clients in these cases. Find out your rights regarding these payments and what to do when the amount no longer reflects the reality of your situation.
Factors That Influence Alimony Awards in Hillsborough County Divorce Proceedings
Under Section 61.08 of the Florida Statutes, one spouse may seek financial support from the other, both during a Tampa divorce and after. Temporary alimony orders help level the playing field while your divorce works its way through the Hillsborough County Family Court. Alimony orders issued as part of your divorce settlement help protect your financial security after the divorce.
Florida Courts do not award alimony automatically. Factors that help determine whether it is warranted and the amount include:
- Whether one spouse makes significantly more than the other.
- Whether one sacrificed their own career or education to support their partner or the family.
- The total amount of income each spouse earns.
- The amount of time they were married.
- Each party’s basic living expenses and debts.
- The outcome of marital property division.
Another important factor is whether either spouse engaged in marital misconduct. If you had an affair or struggled with gambling, addiction, or other issues, it could impact your rights to spousal support in Tampa. However, if your partner is the guilty one, it could entitle you to a better alimony settlement.
How to Seek a Modification When Circumstances Change
Hillsborough County alimony orders are not set in stone. Under Section 61.14 of the Florida Statutes, either spouse can petition the court, asking the judge to increase, decrease, or terminate alimony if there’s a substantial change in circumstances. Examples include:
- A significant, involuntary loss of income, such as a job loss or business failure, or substantial increases in the paying spouse’s income.
- Health issues or injuries that prevent either party from working.
- Reaching retirement age.
- Remarriage, or living with a partner.
- Uncovering hidden assets or income not included in divorce proceedings.
Keep in mind that when modifying spousal support payments in Tampa, informal agreements carry no legal weight. To protect your legal rights, modifications must be approved by the court to be enforceable.
Wondering about Alimony Payments or Modifications? Contact Our Experienced Tampa Divorce Lawyer Today
Alimony is often a key issue in Tampa divorce cases. However, circumstances can change after you get a final divorce order, requiring modifications. To protect your rights regarding these payments, get trusted legal help from Bubley & Bubley, P.A.
Our experienced Tampa divorce lawyer provides professional legal representation to clients throughout Hillsborough County and can guide you whether you are requesting an initial alimony order or modifications. Give us a call or reach out online today to request a consultation.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.08.html
flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/61.14
