Marathon, FL Divorce Law Firms & Lawyers

File for divorce and hope she doesn't respond or, if she does, that she will agree to a settlement. If she fights, there is no easy and cheap way to get a divorce.

Dear Ms. Avery:        Based on the length of your marriage, under Florida Law you may receive permanent periodic alimony.  That is a sum paid monthly by a former spouse indefinitely unless you remarry, either party dies or there is a substantial change in circumstances, or you have a substantial supportive relatinship with another individual that would allow either party to attempt to modify or terminate the alimony.      Alimony in Florida is based on need of one spouse and ability to pay of the other spouse.  Although it seems that you have a need, your husband's ability to pay (and how much) becomes the issues that a court must decide.  The court must also decide your needs and whether you have the ability to earn any money on your own to reduce the amount needed for alimony.     So, yes, you do have a legal remedy to pursue alimony.  You are also, generally,  entitled to equitable distribution of the marital assets and debts.     If you are served with divorce papers, it would likely benefit you to at least have a consultation with an attorney who could review your case and help you move forward.   Best of luck, Cindy S. Vova Law Offices of Cindy S. Vova, P.A. Broward, Boca Raton and Miami-Dade 954-316-3496/561-962-2785  

Generally, not much. As a practical matter, you were the legal spouse, and presumably you addressed all of your marital issues within your divorce case at that time. It is the second spouse and her action for divorce that may possibly be affected and in which she may possibly have a claim for some relief, since her marriage was not legal due to being bigamous. Consult with an attorney to discuss the specifics of your situation and your options.