Divorce can be an expensive ordeal that you are not prepared to face alone. If alimony has already been decided, you may believe that you are unable to request any other types of financial support as you endure this difficult process. However, the attorney’s fees you may be facing can leave you feeling stressed and alone. If your spouse is already paying for alimony, can you also request that they pay for your attorney’s fees in a divorce?
At Robert Sparks Divorce Attorneys of Tampa, we understand how challenging it can be to navigate the legal system and deal with the many elements involved in a Tampa divorce. The divorce process can be stressful and financially demanding. Contact our offices today for compassionate knowledge and assistance so that you can get answers to your many questions concerning divorce.
When You Have Reached an Alimony Agreement in Florida
If you are struggling financially or you are in the process of getting back on your feet in the midst of a divorce, alimony may be a necessity. Two spouses may make an alimony decision before a divorce or it can be decided upon by family court. There are several factors that are considered to determine how much alimony is appropriate, such as the following:
- How long the marriage was
- The contributions each spouse made in the marriage
- Both roles inside the marriage
- The mental and physical health of both spouses
- The standard of living the spouses had during their marriage
Once alimony is reached, you may still be swamped with fees related to your divorce, such as your attorney’s fees. You may wonder if you can request that your spouse pays for these fees when you are unable to do so on your own. It is important to note that attorney’s fees are separate from alimony, which means that you still have options for recovery.
Determining Who Pays the Attorney Fees in a Tampa Divorce
Divorce can be expensive, costing thousands of dollars for both spouses who are seeking one. Depending on how complex your divorce case is, you could see further expenses related to your case, such as court costs, filing fees, and so much more. In most situations, it is true that both parties will be responsible for paying for their legal fees. However, there are some situations where a spouse may be ordered to pay for your attorney’s fees. These include the following:
- You are considered a dependent spouse due to an earning disparity between spouses
- You do not have any income of your own
- Your spouse engaged in misconduct, such as failing to cooperate during divorce proceedings
If you were eligible for spousal support or alimony, there is sometimes a greater chance that your spouse could be ordered to pay for your attorney’s fees at your request. This is due to the fact that you earn much less than your spouse does, making it nearly impossible for you to afford the divorce on your own.
Asking the Court for Assistance with Attorney’s Fees
If you need assistance paying for your attorney’s fees, you should always ask the court to declare you a dependent spouse under Florida law. You want to do this as soon as possible so that the bills can stop piling up against you early on in this complex process. On top of this, you want to make sure that you have an adequate legal advocate on your side throughout the process so that you never have to move through this process alone or without your questions being answered.
Contact Robert Sparks Attorneys for Guidance Today
Not knowing if you can afford an attorney and other fees associated with a divorce can put a lot of stress on you during an already-stressful time in your life. Our Tampa divorce attorneys at Robert Sparks Attorneys are ready to handle your divorce case and provide you with the resources you need at this time. You deserve dependable guidance and representation. Contact us today to find out how we can assist you.