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My ex-husband lives in Pennsylvania. Our divorce was finalized in Florida three years ago. He was ordered to pay alimony bas...

My ex-husband lives in Pennsylvania. Our divorce was finalized in Florida three years ago. He was ordered to pay alimony bas...

Full question:

My ex-husband lives in Pennsylvania. Our divorce was finalized in Florida three years ago. He was ordered to pay alimony based on the number of years we were married (25) and the fact that through most of those years I only worked part time. He has not paid alimony since January of this year. Is there anything I can file myself to force the issue without having to procure the services of an attorney?

Category: Divorce
Subcategory: Spousal Support
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Florida

Answer:

The Uniform Interstate Family Support Act of 1996 (UIFSA) provides for the following types of proceedings to be brought: 1) establishment of an order for spousal support or child support; 2) enforcement of a support order and income-withholding order without registration; 3) registration of an order for spousal support or child support of another state for enforcement; 4) modification of an order for support issued by a tribunal of the forum state; 5) registration of an order for child support of another state for modification; and 6) determination of parentage. All states have enacted legislation providing for domestic enforcement of support obligations in respect to dependents that live in a foreign state. Nearly every jurisdiction has adopted some form of Uniform Support of Dependents statutes, and at present all states have quite similar laws.

The Revised Uniform Reciprocal Enforcement of Support Act RURESA and UIFSA provide that the duties of support applicable under the act are those imposed under the laws of the state where the person owing the duty of support was present during the period for which support is sought. These Acts provide that all duties of support, including arrearages, are enforceable by action irrespective of the relationship between the person owing the duty and the person to whom the duty of support is owed.

I am preparing a generic Petition to Enforce Duty to Pay Spousal Support when Respondent is in Another State for the USLF website and it should be online by May 21.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What is a spouse entitled to after 20 years of marriage?

After 20 years of marriage, a spouse may be entitled to alimony, which can vary based on several factors, including the length of the marriage, the financial needs of the receiving spouse, and the paying spouse's ability to pay. In Florida, for example, longer marriages often lead to greater alimony awards. The court considers the standard of living during the marriage and each spouse's contributions to the marriage, including non-financial contributions. Ultimately, the specifics depend on the circumstances of each case.

How many years of alimony in PA?

In Pennsylvania, the duration of alimony is not strictly defined and can vary based on the specifics of the marriage. Generally, the longer the marriage, the longer the alimony may be awarded. For marriages lasting 20 years or more, courts may award alimony for a duration that reflects the length of the marriage, but this is ultimately at the court's discretion. Factors such as the recipient's needs and the payer's ability to pay are also considered.

What is the average alimony payment in the US?

The average alimony payment in the U.S. can vary widely based on state laws and individual circumstances. Generally, alimony can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month, depending on factors like the length of the marriage, the recipient's financial needs, and the payer's income. Each state has its own guidelines and formulas for calculating alimony, making it essential to consider local regulations when assessing average payments.

What states have no alimony?

As of now, there are no states in the U.S. that completely abolish alimony. However, some states have enacted laws that limit or modify alimony awards significantly. For example, in states like Texas and Utah, alimony can be limited in duration or amount based on specific criteria. It's important to check the laws in your state, as they can vary and change over time.

Does Florida award alimony?

Yes, Florida does award alimony. The state recognizes several types of alimony, including temporary, bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, and permanent alimony. The court considers factors such as the length of the marriage, the financial resources of each spouse, and the standard of living established during the marriage when determining alimony awards. Each case is evaluated on its own merits.

What is a wife entitled to after 20 years of marriage?

After 20 years of marriage, a wife may be entitled to alimony, property division, and other financial support, depending on the circumstances of the divorce. In many states, including Florida, the length of the marriage plays a significant role in determining alimony. The court will evaluate both spouses' financial situations and contributions to the marriage to decide what is fair and equitable.