Permanent alimony is financial support paid from one spouse to another after a divorce. Typically, this type of alimony is paid until the death of either spouse or the recipient’s remarriage.
In Florida, alimony can be paid in the form of periodic (monthly) payments or a lump-sum payment upon a divorce. If you were ordered to pay permanent alimony for an indefinite period of time, you might wonder, “Can I modify or terminate permanent alimony in Florida?”
It is essential to discuss your particular situation with an experienced Orlando alimony lawyer in Orlando because there may be ways to terminate or modify an award of permanent alimony in Florida.
When Do Florida Courts Award Permanent Alimony?
Permanent alimony is typically only awarded upon the end of a long-term marriage that lasts 17 or more years. The purpose of permanent alimony is to ensure that the lower-earning spouse can maintain the standard of living they became accustomed to during the marriage.
However, permanent alimony is only appropriate when one spouse:
As mentioned earlier, Florida courts typically award permanent alimony when a marriage is considered long-term and lasts at least 17 years. However, just because your marriage lasted for over 17 years does not necessarily mean that you are guaranteed to obtain permanent alimony.
Instead, courts consider a variety of factors on a case-by-case basis when awarding permanent or any other type of spousal support. A court may determine that an award of permanent alimony is appropriate based on factors outlined in Fla. Stat. § 61.08 even if the marriage did not last 17 years.
When seeking an award of permanent alimony, the spouse requesting spousal support must prove that such an award would be fair and reasonable under their particular circumstances.
Can Permanent Alimony Be Modified or Terminated?
Typically, it is difficult – and, in many cases, impossible – to change or terminate permanent alimony. However, under specific circumstances, either spouse may be able to request a modification or termination of permanent alimony in Florida.
According to Fla. Stat. § 61.14, a Florida court may modify or terminate an award of permanent alimony in the event of substantial and material changes in circumstances that could not have been anticipated when alimony was ordered.
A common reason for seeking a modification or termination of permanent alimony in Florida is the remarriage or supportive relationship of the recipient spouse. Permanent alimony payments are also automatically terminated upon the death of either spouse.
When seeking a modification or termination, it is important to prove that you have grounds to change or end permanent alimony in Florida. For this reason, it is advisable to speak with a knowledgeable attorney to discuss your particular situation to determine whether or not your circumstances warrant the desired modification or termination.
Schedule a confidential consultation with our attorneys at Donna Hung Law Group by calling 407-999-0099.
By Donna Hung Law Group | Posted on August 12, 2021
“Donna Hung and her team are professional, responsive, and compassionate. They behave like leaders in the industry. And I can see why they are so highly valued and sought after from previous reviewers. I had an excellent experience with her and her team, and although I’d highly Hope not to use them again personally, ;-) I would highly recommend her and her team to others that are going through a divorce. Thank you guys!!” — Justin
“Donna Hung and her entire team could not have taken better care of me through my divorce. You will not find a better firm to represent you and your interests in Orlando. I could not be more grateful that I chose Donna to represent me during one of the toughest times in my life. I highly recommend Donna and her team!! You will not be disappointed.” — Peter
“I am extremely pleased with the representation, counsel, and service I received from Donna Hung and her staff. She and her team are the ultimate professionals. Throughout the process, Donna and her team consistently kept me informed of the status of my case.” — Monica
“Donna did exactly what I hoped for. My divorce process had lots of potential to become very messy but incredibly she was able to help me set up a fair proposal for an uncontested divorce. She was compassionate and caring and with a lot of patience we were able to obtain what we wanted.” — TQ
“During a very difficult time, Donna was patient and communicated all possible options. She listened to me and helped through a very challenging situation. She really cared about helping me get my life back.” — Stephanie
“In my latest shared custody case, which spanned over a year, Miss Hung and her team never once relented on the task of getting a positive outcome. This is the ONLY office you need for your family law case! Thank you!” — Jeremy
“I was referred to Attorney Hung by a colleague and found her to be an invaluable member of my professional team. Attorney Hung has a perfect demeanor for legal counsel and representation: she is even-keeled and empathetic, while also assertive, skillful and downright sharp. She provided me . ” — Kelly
“Donna Hung was kind, caring and professional from the consultation all the way up to the pretrial conference. She saw my case, learned what she needed to know about me and fought for me with the utmost confidence all while doing her best to help me to stay calm and collective.” — T.D.
“Donna Hung and her entire team could not have taken better care of me through my divorce. You will not find a better firm to represent you and your interests in Orlando. I could not be more grateful that I chose Donna to represent me during one of the toughest times in my life. I highly recommend Donna and her team!! You will not be disappointed.” — Peter
“Donna is absolutely amazing! My divorce became very messy and she handled it and my ex-husband’s lawyer like a pro! They would forget to submit things and even canceled the hearing without telling us but she stuck with me at the courthouse” — Alex
“My experience with Donna Hung was excellent. She is highly competent and outstanding in her work. I am pleased to know that Lawyers of her Caliber exist in our community.” — William
“After talking to several different divorce attorneys and family lawyers I turned to Donna Hung and her staff; I knew that I had found the divorce attorney for me. Donna Hung made me feel confident that my divorce would be handled in a proficient and professional manner.” — Jonathan
Day Building
605 E Robinson St, Ste 730
Orlando, FL 32801
(By Appointment Only)
The Donna Hung Law Group serves people in Orlando and throughout Central Florida, including those in Lake Mary, Lake Nona, Kissimmee, Windermere, Winter Garden, Bay Hill, Altamonte Springs, Longwood, Sanford, Oviedo, Maitland, Casselberry, Fern Park, Winter Park, and all cities within Orange, Osceola and Seminole County. We can also travel to counties outside of Central Florida such as Lake, Volusia, Brevard, and Polk County.
No content on this site may be reused in any fashion without written permission from www.donnahunglaw.com
