What Is The New Alimony Law’S Code Section?

3.5 rating based on 34 ratings

Section 71 of Florida’s Dissolution of Marriage law provides rules for treatment in certain cases of payments in the nature of or in lieu of alimony or an allowance for support between spouses who are divorced or separated. The new law, enacted through Senate Bill 1416 (SB 1416), removes permanent alimony as an option in Florida, aiming to encourage financial independence and fairness. The first section of SB 1416 introduces new language to Florida Statutes 61. 08 that outlines alimony as “temporary” and striking references to its former permanent nature. The new law also provides court guidelines to calculate the amount of durational alimony.

The party seeking alimony has the burden of proving their need for alimony and the other party’s ability to pay. The law also requires the court to make written factual findings regarding the amount of alimony or separate maintenance payments. Alimony or separate maintenance payments are included in the gross income of the payee spouse and allowed as a deduction from the gross income.

The new tax law repeals Internal Revenue Code §71, which defined alimony and allowed an above-the-line tax deduction to the payor spouse. The new tax law eliminates Section 215 of the tax code entirely. Family law taxes alimony alimony and support maintenance payments are now subject to Section 11051(C) of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.

General term alimony shall terminate upon the remarriage of the payee spouse, even if they are a non-resident. A defendant may file a cross-petition for divorce, separate maintenance, or annulment, even if they are a non-resident, if the payment is terminated upon the remarriage of the payee spouse.

In summary, Florida’s new alimony overhaul law, CS/SB 1416, aims to encourage financial independence and fairness in alimony payments between divorced or separated spouses.

Useful Articles on the Topic
ArticleDescriptionSite
The 2024 Florida Statutes(a) In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage, the court may grant alimony to either party in the form or forms of temporary, bridge-the-gap, …leg.state.fl.us
New Federal Law Eliminates the Alimony DeductionThe Act repeals Internal Revenue Code §71 (and related sections) which defined alimony and allowed an above the line tax deduction to the payor spouse.walzermelcher.com
Chapter 61 Section 08 – 2024 Florida StatutesSECTION 08Alimony.(a) In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage, the court may grant alimony to either party in the form or forms of temporary, bridge- …m.flsenate.gov

📹 Case DISMISSED in 34 SECONDS!

NEED TO BEAT A DUI? I CAN BE YOUR LAWYER, TOO. Call 502-931-6788 OR Schedule an appointment with me: …


What Is The ALA Code 30 3 61
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Is The ALA Code 30 3 61?

Section 30-3-61 of the Alabama Code mandates the issuance of withholding orders for child support. Employers are required to withhold income from an obligor's earnings and forward these payments to a designated recipient. This section also stipulates that income withholding orders may be issued by other states and outlines the procedures for employers when such orders are served. The law specifies that employers must implement these orders within a designated timeframe and describes the prioritization of withholding payments.

The section details the necessary documentation for initiating a withholding order, including petitions that should provide the names and addresses of both the obligor and obligee. It also highlights the consequences for employers who fail to comply, emphasizing anti-discrimination measures that protect employees from retaliation due to withholding orders. Furthermore, it includes provisions regarding interest on delinquent support payments and the responsibilities of the court clerk in disbursing payments received.

Overall, Section 30-3-61 serves as a comprehensive guideline to ensure that child support obligations are met through direct income withholding, thus protecting the interests of the custodial parent and the welfare of children involved. For complete and updated information, referencing the official Alabama Legislature website is recommended.

What Is Section 151.002 Of The Texas Family Code
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Is Section 151.002 Of The Texas Family Code?

Under Section 151. 002 of the Texas Family Code, a physician-patient relationship is established between a child born alive following an abortion and the physician involved in the procedure. This living child is granted the same rights, powers, and privileges as any child born after a normal gestation period, as stipulated by Texas law. The section emphasizes that a fully expelled or extracted living human child, regardless of the duration of the pregnancy, holds these rights.

It also lays out civil penalties and criminal offenses for non-compliance regarding the treatment of these children. The law outlines the definition of a living child and affirms that such a child’s rights are equivalent to those of all other children born under similar circumstances. Additionally, Section 151. 003 places limitations on state agency actions concerning these rights. The statute ensures confidentiality for individuals who report non-compliance with this law, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the identity of whistleblowers.

Overall, Section 151. 002 reinforces the legal recognition and rights of children born alive after an abortion, highlighting the state's commitment to their welfare and the responsibilities of medical providers. This framework underlines the legal obligations that physicians have toward these children once they are born alive.

What Is Section 71 Alimony
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Is Section 71 Alimony?

Section 71 details the tax treatment of alimony and separate maintenance payments between divorced or separated spouses. According to this section, such payments must be included in the gross income of the recipient spouse and can be deducted from the gross income of the payor spouse. The term "alimony or separate maintenance payment" refers to any cash payment received by a spouse under divorce or separation agreements, including divorce decrees.

These payments must adhere to specific rules to qualify as alimony, such as being outlined in a legal divorce or separation instrument and not designated as non-taxable by the instrument. Additionally, the tax code stipulates that payments must be periodic, and payments made via a trust are also to be included in the recipient's income under Section 71. The legislation recognizes the need for clarity in the definition of alimony payments and their treatment for tax purposes, enabling parties to negotiate amounts of spousal support while adhering to tax regulations.

Understanding these provisions assists in the accurate reporting and taxation of alimony income for both spouses. Overall, Section 71 serves as a comprehensive framework governing the financial obligations and tax implications following marital dissolution.

What Is The ALA Code 30 2 57
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Is The ALA Code 30 2 57?

In Alabama, when a divorce is finalized without an alimony award or jurisdiction reserved, the court loses its authority to later grant rehabilitation or periodic alimony. Effective January 1, 2018, under HB 257 (Ala. Code § 30-2-57), trial courts are granted discretion concerning periodic alimony. Alimony should be awarded only if the court substantiates that one party lacks a separate estate or their estate is insufficient. The law outlines specific guidelines under sections 30-2-51 to 30-2-55 regarding alimony post-divorce.

Notably, amendments to 30-2-56 and 30-2-57 came into force in 2018, with section 30-2-58 detailing the applicability of these provisions to new divorce actions. Judges can consider faults such as adultery when determining alimony, and alimony can be revised or terminated upon proof of remarriage or cohabitation of the receiving spouse (Ala. Code § 30-2-57(h)). Rehabilitative alimony, typically not exceeding five years, may also be awarded under this framework.

Additional provisions include measures for interim alimony and termination protocols. In summary, Alabama's alimony laws emphasize judicial discretion, fault considerations, and specific eligibility criteria for granting financial support post-divorce.

What Is The New Term For Alimony
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Is The New Term For Alimony?

Historically, alimony referred to financial payments from an ex-husband to an ex-wife, but the term "spousal support" is now used to encompass support regardless of gender, helping the lower-earning spouse maintain their lifestyle post-marriage. Recent reforms in Florida, specifically the signing of Senate Bill 1416 by Gov. Ron DeSantis, mark a significant overhaul of the state’s alimony laws, notably eliminating permanent alimony. The revised statute classifies spousal support as "temporary," allowing judges greater discretion in adjusting alimony amounts.

This change, effective July 2023, aims to create a more predictable and equitable system for spousal support. Similarly, Minnesota's family law is also evolving with the introduction of new spousal maintenance laws signed by Governor Walz, further reshaping how spousal support is approached in divorce cases.

Alimony, often called spousal support or maintenance, is essentially defined as periodic payments made by one spouse to another following separation or divorce. These payments are designed to ensure that the receiving spouse can maintain a comparable standard of living. While the terms "alimony" and "spousal support" are often used interchangeably, they encompass various types of support, including rehabilitative and transitional support.

The elimination of permanent alimony in Florida represents a critical shift in how spousal support will be managed, emphasizing the importance of understanding how these new laws might affect individuals in divorce situations.

What Is The Alimony Reform Bill
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Is The Alimony Reform Bill?

The Alimony Reform Bill, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis on June 30, 2023, overhauls Florida's alimony laws, marking a significant shift in spousal support. Key changes include the elimination of permanent alimony and the introduction of caps on various types of alimony based on marriage duration. Specifically, those married for under three years will not qualify for alimony, while marriages lasting 20 years or more may receive it. The bill allows ex-spouses to request modifications if they can demonstrate that their former partner is in a supportive relationship or if they seek to retire.

Notably, rehabilitative alimony is capped at five years, and durational alimony cannot exceed half the length of the marriage for those married between three to ten years. All pending and new alimony cases filed after July 1, 2023, will be subject to these reforms. This legislation aims to help ensure fairer determinations of alimony and reduce the potential for prolonged financial obligations. After nearly a decade of legislative attempts and emotional debates, the reform represents a pivotal change in how alimony is awarded and calculated in Florida, significantly impacting both ex-spouses receiving and paying alimony.

How Much Alimony Can A Wife Get In USA
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Much Alimony Can A Wife Get In USA?

Spousal maintenance is calculated by taking one-third of the paying spouse's net annual income and subtracting 25% of the receiving spouse's net annual income. The resulting total must not exceed 40% of the combined net income of both spouses. Commonly, spousal support can reach up to 40% of the paying spouse’s net income, determined after child support obligations are met. In most U. S. states, the eligibility for alimony depends on the paying spouse's ability to afford payments, along with specific state laws.

Alimony is typically awarded when one spouse is unable to meet their financial needs after divorce. The average amount of alimony can vary, but it often amounts to about 40% of the paying spouse's income. Payments are generally made in cash or check, and in-kind support is not deductible. Factors influencing alimony include income disparities, marriage duration, and financial needs. Couples may negotiate their terms, though courts will calculate entitlements based on the financial situation.

Temporary alimony may be required during separation. For marriages shorter than 20 years, the duration of support cannot exceed half the marriage length. Ultimately, the average monthly alimony payment varies, reflecting the differing state regulations and individual situations.

What Does SB 1416 Mean For Alimony In Florida
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Does SB 1416 Mean For Alimony In Florida?

The significant reform in Florida's alimony laws was initiated by Senate Bill 1416 (SB 1416), signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis on June 30, 2023, and effective from July 1, 2023. This legislation represents one of the most substantial changes in recent history, eliminating the concept of permanent alimony. Under the new law, alimony is categorized as "temporary," allowing judges greater flexibility to reduce or terminate alimony payments, particularly if the payer retires.

Additionally, SB 1416 introduces a family law handbook and modifies the definitions of marriage duration categories, impacting corresponding alimony obligations. Permanent alimony has been replaced by three types of temporary alimony: bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative (limited to five years), and durational alimony, which cannot exceed the length of the marriage for marriages under three years.

Furthermore, the law simplifies the process for terminating alimony when the recipient enters a "supportive relationship." After a decade of ongoing efforts and prior vetoes, this legislation represents a fundamental shift towards facilitating financial independence and fairness in divorce proceedings in Florida. Overall, SB 1416 is poised to transform the landscape of spousal support in the state.

What Is The 26 US Code 215
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Is The 26 US Code 215?

The term "alimony or separate maintenance payment" refers to payments defined in section 71(b) that must be included in the gross income of the recipient under section 71. Under section 215 of the Internal Revenue Code, individuals are allowed a deduction equivalent to the alimony or separate maintenance payments made during their taxable year. Specifically, section 215(a) states that a deduction is allowed for periodic payments made for alimony or support.

Section 215(b) further defines these payments, which are significant for calculating taxable income. The revisions to the law state that the applicable rules regarding deductions are repealed for any divorce or separation instruments executed after December 22, 2017. The law specifies conditions and definitions for what constitutes alimony or separate maintenance, ensuring clarity for taxpayers. Additionally, it references other related tax sections such as section 682, which discusses the tax status of income for estates or trusts in divorce situations.

Established under the Internal Revenue Code, these provisions provide essential guidance for individuals regarding their tax obligations and deductions. The document emphasizes the relationship between alimony payments and income calculations within the tax framework, reinforcing the rules governing how such payments are treated for tax purposes.

What Is Section 6.702 Of The Texas Family Code
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Is Section 6.702 Of The Texas Family Code?

According to Section 6. 702 of the Texas Family Code, there is a mandatory waiting period of 60 days before a court can grant a divorce. This waiting period begins from the date the divorce suit is filed. A divorce decree issued before this 60-day waiting period expires is not subject to collateral attack. The aim of this cooling-off period is to provide spouses time to reconsider and possibly reconcile, even if this outcome seems improbable. It is important to note that this section of the law specifies that the waiting period applies except in certain circumstances outlined in Subsection (c).

Nonetheless, if the marriage is insupportable due to personality conflicts or discord, the court may ultimately grant a divorce, but only after the waiting period has elapsed. To track the 60 days, individuals should start counting from the filing date of their Original Petition for Divorce. While this waiting period applies to divorces, it does not extend to annulments or cases declaring a marriage void, which can be granted at the court's discretion without a waiting period. Understanding these regulations is crucial for anyone involved in divorce proceedings in Texas, as they govern the timeline and procedures for finalizing a divorce.

What Are Florida'S New Alimony Laws
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Are Florida'S New Alimony Laws?

On July 1, 2023, significant changes to Florida's alimony laws came into effect following the signing of Senate Bill 1416 by Governor Ron DeSantis. This legislation marks a major transformation in the state's alimony framework, as it abolishes permanent alimony, which had been a longstanding option in divorce proceedings. Under the new law, courts can award one of four types of alimony, including temporary, rehabilitative, and durational alimony, each with specific rules and limitations. The new rules stipulate that the party seeking alimony must demonstrate their financial need, along with the other party's ability to pay.

A key aspect of the reform includes caps on alimony terms—rehabilitative alimony is now limited to a maximum of five years, while durational alimony cannot exceed 50% of the marriage's duration for short and moderate-term marriages. The law aims to foster financial independence and reduce reliance on indefinite financial support. The reform endeavor has been lengthy, spanning nearly a decade and four failed attempts before successfully passing this significant legislation.

Overall, these changes are expected to reshape financial outcomes for individuals undergoing divorce in Florida, as the state's approach to alimony shifts from an indefinite support model to one that encourages self-sufficiency and more structured financial arrangements.

What Is The Family Code 8.057 In Texas
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Is The Family Code 8.057 In Texas?

Under Texas Family Code § 8. 057, a maintenance order may be modified by filing a motion in the court that originally issued the order. Maintenance refers to periodic payments made from one spouse's future income to support the other spouse following a divorce. To modify the maintenance amount specified in a court order, proper notice must be served, and any response must be filed by 10 a. m. on the first Monday after 20 days from the date of service.

The court must evaluate a spouse's eligibility to receive maintenance, determining the nature, amount, duration, and manner of payments while considering all relevant factors. The law limits maintenance payments to no more than $5, 000 or 20% of the paying spouse's average monthly income.

Moreover, modifications can occur if there is a material and substantial change in circumstances since the original order was made. Spousal maintenance will cease if the dependent spouse remarries or cohabits with another partner continuously.

Section 8. 057 governs modifications of maintenance agreements post-divorce, ensuring any changes are formally approved by the court. Therefore, those seeking modifications or adjustments to their maintenance orders must navigate these stipulations and requirements, as outlined in the Texas Family Code, specifically under Chapter 8 concerning maintenance following the dissolution of marriage. This promotes a structured approach to spousal support adjustments, honoring both parties' needs and circumstances.


📹 Eye catching divorce case #husband #wife #alimony #misguided #lawyer #mphighcourt #shorts

Subscribe to our channel for more updates on this case and other intriguing stories from around the world. Make sure to turn on …


Freya Gardon

Hi, I’m Freya Gardon, a Collaborative Family Lawyer with nearly a decade of experience at the Brisbane Family Law Centre. Over the years, I’ve embraced diverse roles—from lawyer and content writer to automation bot builder and legal product developer—all while maintaining a fresh and empathetic approach to family law. Currently in my final year of Psychology at the University of Wollongong, I’m excited to blend these skills to assist clients in innovative ways. I’m passionate about working with a team that thinks differently, and I bring that same creativity and sincerity to my blog about family law.

About me

Add comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Divorce Readiness Calculator

How emotionally prepared are you for a divorce?
Divorce is an emotional journey. Assess your readiness to face the challenges ahead.

Pin It on Pinterest

We use cookies in order to give you the best possible experience on our website. By continuing to use this site, you agree to our use of cookies.
Accept
Privacy Policy