Types of Alimony in Florida
Understanding Spousal Support Options After Divorce
Florida law provides multiple types of alimony to address different financial needs following a divorce. The right form depends on the length of the marriage, the recipient’s circumstances, and each spouse’s financial situation.
Temporary Alimony
Support During the Divorce Process
Temporary alimony, also called
pendente lite support, is awarded during the divorce proceedings. Its purpose is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain the status quo while the case is ongoing. This type of alimony ends when the final judgment is entered and any long-term support begins.
Bridge-the-Gap Alimony
Helping a Spouse Transition Post-Divorce
Bridge-the-gap alimony is designed to assist with short-term, identifiable needs during the transition from married life to single life. It can be used for things like securing housing, buying a vehicle, or covering initial living expenses. Florida law caps this support at a
maximum of two years, and once ordered, it cannot be modified in amount or duration.
Rehabilitative Alimony
Supporting Education or Career Development
Rehabilitative alimony helps a spouse become financially independent by funding education, training, or job preparation. To receive this type of alimony, the recipient must submit a clear and specific
rehabilitation plan. The duration is tied to that plan, and this alimony can be modified or terminated if the plan is completed early, abandoned, or if circumstances change significantly.
Durational Alimony
Medium- to Long-Term Support After Divorce
Durational alimony provides financial support for a set period after the divorce is finalized. Under Florida’s revised alimony law (as of July 1, 2023), durational alimony has replaced permanent alimony in most cases.
The duration of support cannot exceed:
- 50% of the marriage length for short-term marriages (under 10 years)
- 60% for moderate-term marriages (10–20 years)
- 75% for long-term marriages (20+ years)
The amount may be modified if financial circumstances change, but the length is only changed under exceptional circumstances.
Eliminated: Permanent Alimony
Recent Legal Reform Changed the Rules
Florida
eliminated permanent alimony in 2023. Judges can no longer award lifetime support. Instead, longer durational alimony is now used to provide ongoing support for spouses who may not be able to regain full self-sufficiency. This change reflects a shift in the law toward encouraging financial independence post-divorce while still supporting those in need.
How Courts Decide
Matching the Type of Alimony to the Case
Courts consider several factors when deciding whether alimony is appropriate and which type fits. These include:
- Length of the marriage
- Standard of living during the marriage
- Age and health of both spouses
- Financial resources and earning capacities
- Contributions to the marriage (homemaking, education support, etc.)
Each alimony type requires different findings. For example, rehabilitative alimony requires a specific plan, while durational alimony is more likely in moderate- to long-term marriages with proven financial disparity.
Strategic Representation for Alimony Cases
Advocating for the Right Financial Outcome
Whether you are seeking support or being asked to provide it, choosing the right type of alimony matters. The Davies Law Firm understands how to frame your case clearly, persuasively, and in line with Florida’s updated alimony laws. We aim for results that are both fair and legally sound.
Discuss Your Alimony Options
Start with Legal Guidance You Can Trust
Alimony laws in Florida are complex—and recent changes have made them even more nuanced. We’ll help you understand your rights, assess which type of support may apply, and advocate for a solution that supports your future.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
