What happens when you get alimony wrong? A single mistake could drain your finances or leave you shortchanged. In Fort Myers, alimony isn’t just a number; it’s a lifeline for financial stability. At Bergermann Law Firm, we know the stakes and ensure you don’t pay the price for errors that could have been avoided.
Mistake #1: Skipping Full Disclosure
Think you can fudge the numbers? Think again. Courts demand full transparency in alimony cases. That means disclosing every dollar, every asset, every debt. Hiding something—or forgetting to check your spouse’s math—can cost you more than money. It could cost you credibility in court. Transparency isn’t just required; it’s your best defense. When you retain Bergermann Law Firm, you get a leg up in this arena because Vera Bergerman has her Master’s Degree in Taxation. So she’s the rare attorney who also knows numbers like no one else.
Mistake #2: Overlooking the Different Types of Alimony
Do you know the difference between rehabilitative alimony and permanent alimony? Most people don’t—and that’s a problem. Florida courts don’t hand out one-size-fits-all solutions. If you don’t request the right type of alimony support, you could end up with a settlement that doesn’t fit your needs. At Bergermann Law Firm, we ensure your alimony matches your life—not someone else’s assumptions.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Lifestyle Factors
Courts don’t just calculate alimony based on income; they factor in the life you lived during your marriage. Did you travel frequently? Own a second home? These details matter. Failing to document your marital lifestyle accurately can result in alimony that doesn’t maintain your standard of living. Fairness starts with facts, and we’ll help you bring them to light.
Mistake #4: Misjudging What Counts as Income
Is your spouse earning more than they claim? Income isn’t just a salary. It’s bonuses, commissions, rental income, and more. Missing any of these streams of income could leave you with a skewed alimony agreement. At Bergermann Law Firm, we dig deep to ensure every penny is accounted for—on both sides.
Mistake #5: Forgetting the Tax Impact
Did you know that alimony is no longer tax-deductible for payers or taxable for recipients? This post-2019 rule under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has reshaped financial planning for divorcing couples. If you’re relying on outdated tax advice, you’re setting yourself up for a surprise—and not the good kind. We make sure your calculations reflect today’s tax laws, not yesterday’s assumptions.
Mistake #6: Trusting Online Calculators
Think an online calculator can handle your alimony case? Think again. These tools don’t account for the nuances of Florida law or the unique aspects of your marriage. They’re simplistic—and often wrong. When it comes to your future, guesswork isn’t good enough. Trust the expertise of professionals who understand the law and your needs.
Mistake #7: Failing to Plan for the Future
What happens if you lose your job? Or if your spouse gets a raise? Alimony agreements that don’t account for future changes can leave you vulnerable. Florida allows modifications for significant changes in circumstances, but why not build flexibility into your agreement from the start? We ensure your alimony plan adapts as life does.
How to Get It Right
Avoiding these mistakes isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Here’s how to protect yourself:
Be honest and transparent.
Work with an experienced family law attorney.
Understand Florida’s alimony laws inside and out.
Plan for both today and tomorrow.
At Bergermann Law Firm, we do more than calculate alimony. We ensure your financial security, no matter what the future holds.
Avoid the Common Pitfalls
Mistakes in alimony calculations don’t just cost money—they cost peace of mind. With the right approach, you can avoid these pitfalls and secure an agreement that works for you. At Bergermann Law Firm, we help Fort Myers families make informed decisions about alimony, ensuring fairness and financial stability.
Take the First Step Today
Your future is too important to leave to chance. Contact Bergermann Law Firm at (239) 334-0075 to schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to secure the alimony agreement you deserve.
