The Pros and Cons of Alimony During Collaborative Divorce in Orlando

During a collaborative divorce, you may have the option to forgo alimony altogether. If both spouses agree that these payments are not necessary, there is no legal obligation to go through with the process. However, spouses might want to carefully consider the pros and cons of alimony before taking this move. Speak with an experienced alimony attorney in Orlando to gain further insights based on your specific situation.

Alimony May Prevent a “Clean Break”

Many spouses dread paying alimony because it forces them to maintain a connection with their exes. Whether the split is amicable or bitter, it makes sense to move on with your life as best as possible and put the past behind you. With continued alimony payments, you face a constant reminder of your failed relationship.

In addition, there is always the chance that a dispute might arise over alimony in the future. For example, you might stop receiving alimony at some point in the future. When this happens, you might have to go back to court and force your ex to continue making their payments.

One way to avoid this situation is to pursue lump-sum alimony. As its name suggests, this method involves a single, large payment instead of multiple smaller payments over time. This could ensure a “clean break” while still providing the recipient with financial support.

Alimony Helps Ensure Financial Security 

On the other hand, alimony can provide the recipient with financial security, and this may be crucial after a divorce. In many cases, spouses emerge from marriage with no employment skills or on-the-job experience. As a result, alimony can help them adjust to single life and financial independence.

Many alimony agreements in Florida today are “rehabilitative,” which means they exist solely to guide spouses toward employment skills and new credentials. For example, alimony might pay a spouse’s tuition as they go back to college and finish their degree. Remember, permanent alimony is now a thing of the past in Florida.

You Can Trade Alimony for Other Benefits During Negotiations

Mediation, collaborative law, and arbitration allow you to negotiate and “trade” alimony for other things that may be more beneficial. For example, you might want to keep the family home. Instead of receiving alimony, you might agree to forgo these payments in exchange for a reliable roof over your head. You might also trade alimony for other valuable assets, such as retirement accounts or luxury vehicles.

This type of arrangement can be beneficial for both spouses, and an experienced lawyer can guide you through these negotiations in a confident, organized manner.

Can an Orlando Alimony Attorney Help Me?

If you and your ex are considering whether or not to move forward with alimony, you might want to discuss this decision with an Orlando alimony lawyer first. Although forgoing alimony may ensure a “clean break,” these ongoing payments can also provide financial security for the recipient. Learn more by contacting Steve Marsee, P.A. today.

Source:

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