Alimony in Florida

The Florida legislation is attempting to bring uniformity to the subject of alimony in Florida.

New legislation now objectively defines a marriage as short term, long term, and moderate term. If a marriage is 7 years or less, it is short term. If the marriage is 17 years or more, it is long term. Anywhere in between, it is a marriage of moderate length.

The length of the marriage is important, since the type of alimony available depends upon the length of the marriage.

Florida Statute 61.08 is the alimony statute in Florida. There are four main types of alimony in Florida, as follows:

• Bridge-the- gap alimony
• Rehabilitative alimony
• Durational alimony
• Permanent alimony
• Bridge-the-gap alimony may not exceed a term of 2 years, and is not subject to modification as to the length or the amount of the award.

Rehabilitative alimony may be awarded to a party to assist them in obtaining the capacity for self support.

Durational alimony is generally awarded when permanent alimony is inappropriate. Durational alimony can be awarded for a maximum number of years equal to the length of the marriage.

Permanent alimony is generally reserved for those cases in excess of 17 years in length, and is awarded to an individual who lacks the ability to meet his or her needs and necessities of life.

These are all generalizations, and each case must be considered on a case by case basis. I have over 30 years of experience involving cases dealing with alimony, of all kinds, and can offer you the appropriate guidance to resolve your case quickly and efficiently.