Why a Stay-at-Home Parent Should Not Fear Divorce in Florida

 Posted on August 21, 2024 in Divorce

If you are a stay-at-home parent in Florida, you might be feeling anxious about how divorce can affect your life. It is normal to have concerns about financial stability, custody, and your future. However, understanding Florida’s divorce laws can help alleviate some of that fear. There are legal protections and resources designed to support you during this transition. A qualified Miami, FL family law attorney can explain why financial concerns should not keep you in an unhealthy marriage.

Equitable Distribution of Assets in a Florida Divorce

Florida law follows an equitable distribution model for dividing marital assets. What that means is that all property and debts accumulated during the marriage are divided fairly in divorce, not necessarily equally. As a stay-at-home mom, you are entitled to a fair share of the marital assets, which may include the family home, savings, and other investments. Equitable distribution is determined by several factors, including:

• Each spouse’s contribution to the other’s education or career
• Whether one spouse took on more home maintenance and childcare responsibilities
• Each spouse’s earning potential, taking into account their education, professional training, and professional background
• Whether either spouse is disabled in some way that prevents them from working

Alimony Calculations in Florida

Alimony, or spousal support, can be awarded in Florida to help a spouse at a financial disadvantage maintain a reasonable standard of living. The courts have broad discretion to decide whether someone is entitled to alimony, how much they should receive, and for how long. To decide this, several factors are taken into consideration, including:

• How long the couple was married
• The standard of living established during the marriage
• Each spouse’s age and physical and emotional health
• Each spouse’s financial resources
• Each spouse’s sources of income
• Each spouse’s responsibilities for their children

Child Support in Florida

The state of Florida calculates child support payments based on each parent’s income and the child’s needs. Generally, one parent is granted primary custody, meaning the child lives all or most of the time with that parent. The other parent has to pay them child support to help cover the costs of raising their child, including education, healthcare, and everyday expenses.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Miami, FL Divorce Lawyer

Divorce can be challenging, especially for stay-at-home parents worried about their financial future. However, there are legal protections in place, and money concerns should not make you feel forced to stay in an unhealthy marriage. An experienced Miami, FL divorce attorney can explain how equitable distribution of assets, alimony, and child support can provide you with the stability and security you need. At Miami Family Law Group, PLLC, we are passionate about helping clients make informed decisions that can benefit their lives. Call us at 305-520-7874 to schedule a free consultation.