Alimony is commonly described as financial support provided by one spouse to another, during and after a dissolution of marriage. Florida allows for either a husband or wife to be eligible to receive alimony. In simple terms, under Florida law, alimony is based on one party’s financial need and the other party’s ability to pay. There are several different types of alimony under Florida law, including but not limited to,

Permanent – This type of alimony awards payments to the receiving spouse for life, or until they remarry or cohabitate. Generally, speaking this kind of alimony is for marriages that have lasted for more than 17 years.

Durational – This type of alimony is generally awarded in short or moderate term marriages to afford the recipient with financial support during a set period of time. The length of the award may not be greater than the length of the marriage.

Rehabilitative – This type of alimony is given to support the other spouses ability to earn an education or training for employment. This gives the receiving spouse the ability to become self-sufficient. This must be defined in a plan as well as the amounts needed.

Bridge-the-Gap – This kind of alimony is to assist a party in the transition from married to single life. This kind of alimony will only last up to two years.

Temporary – This kind of alimony is a non-permanent award throughout the divorce proceedings.

Alimony awards are determined by several factors, including the length of the marriage and each party’s contribution to the marriage. Alimony amount are generally determined by a court unless otherwise agreed to outside of court. These amounts may be paid in periodic payments or in a lump sum payment. Alimony awards are case-specific. Please contact our office to set up a consultation to better assess your individual case.