Alimony Lawyer in Clearwater

A trusted Clearwater alimony lawyer serving Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties

Alimony is often a primary concern for both spouses during a divorce. Unlike many other states, Florida does not have set guidelines when it comes to alimony awards, and judges have the power to award as much or as little alimony as they see fit. When your future financial stability is on the line, not just any attorney will do. You need an experienced attorney you can trust to present the best possible case on your behalf.

My name is James L. Slater, and I am that attorney. I have more than three decades of experience handling alimony proceedings for clients in Clearwater, Palm Harbor and throughout Florida. Whether you need a lawyer to protect your assets or ensure that you receive the financial support you need, I can protect your rights and fight for you.

Types of alimony

Alimony awards typically depend on the nature and duration of your marriage. Depending on the circumstances involved in your case, you may be awarded one of the following types of alimony.

Permanent alimony

A spouse who has been married for many years and has lost the capacity for self-support may be awarded permanent alimony. Permanent alimony entails life-long payments unless the recipient spouse remarries or the paying spouse dies. When deciding whether to award this form of alimony, judges consider how much the wage earner can fairly pay under the circumstances, and how much support his or her former spouse requires.

Rehabilitative alimony

A spouse whose earning ability has diminished during the marriage but has the potential for self-support may be awarded rehabilitative alimony by a judge. Rehabilitative alimony serves as support for a designated period of time in order to help the spouse reestablish himself or herself in the workforce.

Lump-sum alimony

There are several situations where a lump-sum alimony payment may be made. A spouse may receive a lump-sum alimony payment when the distribution of assets and possessions after a divorce is uneven, or to give one spouse a large share of the marital estate. Lump-sum alimony may also be awarded to take the place of monthly permanent or rehabilitative payments.

Compassionate care. Knowledgeable representation. Proven results.

If you need an experienced family law attorney on your side, call James L. Slater, Attorney at Law today at 727.493.4148 or contact me online to schedule a free consultation. From my office in Palm Harbor, I represent clients throughout Pasco County, Pinellas County and Hillsborough County.