Alimony and Spousal Support

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Alimony And Spousal Support Attorney In Melbourne, Florida

Reaching Your Optimal Outcome

Alimony, commonly referred to as spousal support, represents a financial obligation from one spouse to another during divorce proceedings and, in certain instances, indefinitely. The entitlement to such support can apply to either a husband or wife, contingent upon the specific dynamics of your familial situation, marriage, and divorce conditions. In this complex arena of Family Law, Ric Woodward, a seasoned attorney, stands ready to advocate fiercely for you. With over three decades of invaluable experience, Ric provides individualized attention to each case, ensuring your interests are front and center. Reach out to us today to initiate the process.


Florida is an Equitable Distribution state, which means that all assets and liabilities earned by either spouse during a marriage is subject to equitable, or roughly equal, distribution. This means that any asset and any debt, whether owned solely by one spouse, or held jointly by both spouses, are considered marital and will be equitably divided.

Contact Law Office Of Ric Woodward to schedule a consultation with a lawyer today. 321-895-7828

A Decision with Profound Ramifications

The Court typically uses the date of filing of a case to determine the value of each asset and each debt. This means that parties that are separated are still accruing assets or liabilities that may be considered marital. Either party may ask a Court to examine “marital waste” transactions up to 2 years before a case is filed to determine if “marital waste” transactions should be added to the distribution.


There are exceptions to the equitable distribution scheme. For example, inheritances or gifts to one spouse from someone outside the marriage are not generally considered marital, unless those funds are “co-mingled” with marital funds. Also, homes owned by both parties are considered owned in a slightly different manner, so there are special rules regarding the division of a marital home.


The process of understanding the assets and debts that exist to be divided requires discovery of both parties’ finances. Florida has mandatory financial disclosure rules that obligate each party to produce certain financial records to the other party, and sometimes it is necessary to demand more comprehensive financial records to properly evaluate the parties’ financial situation.


It is important to prepare an Equitable Distribution game plan or spreadsheet before going to mediation or to a hearing on the issues.

Resolution through Strategy

It is vitally important for a party to have an attorney through the process. Ric has handled simple and complex equitable distribution cases. Ric will advise you of your rights and responsibilities, guide you through the process, prepare you properly for Court events, and advise you of your alternatives and of probable outcomes if you go before a judge. Call Ric today for a complimentary strategy session to plan out Ric’s recommended approach to your case!

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