Fort Lauderdale Alimony Payments: Can You Request Modifications?

For people whose spouses made more than them or were the primary breadwinner in the marriage, alimony plays a crucial role in the ability to recover from a divorce in Fort Lauderdale. These payments help protect the receiving spouse’s financial security, but what if circumstances change? Can alimony payments be increased or reduced? Our Fort Lauderdale alimony lawyer explains how the answer is yes, but only under certain conditions and with court approval.

When Can You Modify Alimony Payments in Fort Lauderdale?

Florida courts recognize that financial circumstances can shift over time. For this reason, the Florida Statutes allow for alimony modifications in some cases.

Before a Broward County Family Court judge will approve your request, though, there must be a substantial change in circumstances. The following are common situations that often justify alimony modifications in Fort Lauderdale:

• Loss of income or employment, such as when your spouse loses a job or faces other significant drops in income;
• Increased financial needs, such as if the receiving spouse faces new health issues or unexpected financial burdens;
• If you begin living with a new partner, this could be grounds for modifying or terminating alimony;
• In most cases, if the receiving spouse remarries, alimony ends automatically;
• When a paying spouse retires in good faith at a reasonable age, this may justify a reduction or termination of alimony.

You may also be entitled to request alimony modifications in Fort Lauderdale if your spouse misrepresented their income or assets during your divorce proceedings, regardless of when you uncover their deceit.

How to Request Alimony Modifications In Fort Lauderdale

Alimony laws changed in Florida several years ago and courts are less generous in what they can provide regarding the amount and the extent of time you are entitled to payment. You still have the right to request modifications in certain situations, but judges are unlikely to grant changes without documentation and a strong legal argument. Here is what you will need to do:

• File a petition with the Broward County Family Court: This officially starts the modification process and must be filed in the same court that issued the original divorce order.
• Provide financial affidavits: Both parties are usually required to submit updated income and expense reports.
• Attend a hearing: If your ex objects, the court will hold a hearing to review evidence and arguments from both parties.
• Prepare to negotiate: If both sides can agree on a change, you can submit a joint agreement to the judge for approval, potentially avoiding a hearing.

Remember that verbal agreements between ex-spouses are not legally enforceable unless the court approves them. Always use the proper legal channels to protect your rights and avoid future disputes.

Consult Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Alimony Lawyer To Discuss Your Options

Has your financial situation changed? Are you wondering whether previously awarded alimony can be adjusted? Contact Vanessa L. Prieto. Our Fort Lauderdale alimony lawyer provides trusted legal guidance and protects your rights in requesting modifications in Broward County. Reach out and request a consultation today.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.14.html

browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family