Alimony and Child Support

Alimony has and will continue to be the heart of most matrimonial disputes. Often, the primary wage earner protests that he/she is paying too much alimony while the party in need counters that it is not enough. This is inevitable in divorce. To determine whether or not alimony is appropriate in your matter, one must be educated on the new alimony guidelines that went into effect on July 1, 2010. Initially, Ms. Devack will ascertain the need for financial assistance and ability to pay. If the circumstances involve the “A” word, she will focus on the type of alimony, amount of alimony, and duration of alimony. There are six types of alimony: permanent periodic, rehabilitative, bridge-the-gap, lump sum, durational, or temporary. The amount of alimony is based upon various statutory factors including the standard of living and length of your marriage, whether it is short-term  (less than 7 years), moderate-term (at least 7 years and less than 17 years), or long-term (at least 17 years).  

Child support is also governed by Florida statute. The primary factors used to calculate each parties' percentage or amount of child support is the combined net income of the mother and father, the cost of child care, the cost of  health insurance, and the time-sharing schedule between the parties. In extraordinary situations, child support can deviate from the statutory guidelines.

Some other financial issues to explore when determining each person's income for calculating alimony or child support is “underemployment,” business "perks," or "hidden" unreported cash income.