Types Of Alimony In Florida: Which One Applies To You?

One of the most misunderstood aspects of divorce is alimony. Many clients come to us with assumptions about what it is, how it works, or whether they’ll have to pay or receive it. The truth is that alimony in Florida isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.

At Lane Law Firm, we help our clients understand what kind of support they might be entitled to or required to pay. Whether you’re seeking stability after a long-term marriage or transitioning back into the workforce, it’s important to know which type of alimony might apply to your situation.

Understanding Alimony in Florida

Florida law allows for several forms of alimony, and courts make decisions based on need and ability to pay. The court also considers the length of the marriage, standard of living, financial resources, and each party’s contributions – both financial and non-financial – during the marriage.

Here are the types of alimony currently recognized in Florida:

Temporary Alimony

Temporary alimony is awarded while a divorce case is pending. It’s meant to maintain financial stability until a final order is in place. Once the divorce is finalized, this type of alimony ends.

Bridge-the-Gap Alimony

This short-term support is designed to help one spouse transition from married life to single life. It typically covers identifiable and short-term needs, such as rent deposits or job training. Florida law limits bridge-the-gap alimony to a maximum of two years, and it cannot be modified once awarded.

Rehabilitative Alimony

Rehabilitative alimony is for spouses who need time and support to become self-sufficient, often through education or career development. To be awarded this type of alimony, the requesting spouse must present a clear rehabilitation plan. Courts tend to view this favorably when the plan is specific and realistic.

Durational Alimony

This type of alimony is common in moderate- to long-term marriages where permanent alimony isn’t appropriate. Durational alimony provides support for a set period of time and may be modified under certain conditions, though the length cannot exceed the length of the marriage.

Permanent Alimony (Limited Use)

Although Florida has moved away from awarding permanent alimony as frequently as in the past, it may still apply in certain long-term marriages where the receiving spouse cannot become self-supporting. This could be due to age, disability, or other significant barriers to earning a living.

Choosing the Right Path with Legal Guidance

Determining which type of alimony in Florida applies to your case depends on several personal and financial factors. It’s rarely a straightforward answer, and trying to handle it without experienced legal support can lead to unfair or unsustainable results.

At Lane Law Firm, we take the time to understand your unique situation and advocate for the type of alimony that fits your needs, whether you’re pursuing it or facing a request. Our goal is always to ensure a fair, practical outcome that respects the law and your future stability.