Yes. Florida courts follow a principle called “equitable distribution” in dividing marital assets during divorce. This means they aim for a fair division based on each spouse’s contributions to the marriage – both financial and non-financial.
One spouse may have earned a high salary, while the other might have managed the household or raised the children. Florida law recognizes that both types of contributions are important to a marriage. Below are some of the non-financial contributions that courts may consider.
Homemaking and household management
This covers all the work that goes into running a home smoothly, including:
- Daily cleaning
- Cooking
- Laundry
- General upkeep of the home
While these tasks don’t bring in a paycheck, they’re essential for the family’s comfort and health.
Childcare and parenting responsibilities
This includes the round-the-clock job of raising children, from daily care to emotional support and managing their education and activities. It’s about being there for every aspect of your child’s life and development, which requires significant time, energy and emotional investment.
Supporting the other spouse’s career or education
Courts may also recognize the behind-the-scenes support one spouse might provide to boost the other’s career, such as relocating for a job or taking on extra duties at home. This support can be crucial in allowing one spouse to advance professionally or pursue further education. These sacrifices can indirectly contribute to the family’s financial success and stability.
Sacrifices of personal career or education
Courts may consider instances where one spouse had to put their own ambitions on hold for the sake of the family, such as turning down a promotion or postponing further education. These decisions can have long-lasting effects on a person’s earning potential and career trajectory. The court aims to ensure that the divorce is fair to the spouse who gave up career opportunities for the family.
Contributions to improving marital assets
This includes efforts to increase the value of what you own together, such as renovating a home or managing family investments. These contributions can significantly impact the family’s overall financial picture, even if they don’t result in immediate income.
Your work and sacrifice matters
Whether you’ve dedicated years to raising children or put your career on hold to support your spouse’s ambitions, your efforts are valuable. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options moving forward.