What Are The Different Types Of Alimony In Florida?

In Florida, alimony is known as spousal support. To receive alimony, a spouse must prove that they have a need for financial support and that the other spouse is capable of paying that financial support. Recent changes to the law have done away with permanent alimony, so there are now four main types of alimony available to Florida residents. In this article, the Orlando family lawyers at Greater Orlando Family Law will discuss the different types of alimony, how they work, and what their purpose is.

Durational alimony 

Durational alimony is awarded to a recipient spouse to provide financial assistance for a specific period of time. An award of durational alimony cannot exceed 50% of a short-term marriage (less than 10 years), 60% of a medium-term marriage (more than 10 years but less than 20), or 75% of a long-term marriage (a marriage lasting over 20 years). An award of durational alimony may not exceed 35% of the difference between the two spouses’ incomes.

Rehabilitative alimony 

Rehabilitative alimony is awarded primarily for short- or medium-term marriages. This type of alimony aims to help a spouse who has left the workforce get educational or vocational training necessary to make them self-sufficient. This type of alimony award can assist a spouse in finishing their education or employment training. To receive rehabilitative alimony, a spouse must present the court with a plan of how the money is going to be used to further their career.

Temporary alimony 

Temporary alimony is awarded by the court to one spouse from the other to help cover the costs related to the divorce. It terminates once the divorce is finalized. Its sole purpose is to help one spouse cover costs related to divorce fees and attorneys.

Bridge-the-gap alimony 

Bridge-the-gap alimony is meant to help a spouse with their short-term needs. The courts will award this type of alimony in cases where a spouse needs help meeting their living expenses directly after a divorce. The courts will only award bridge-the-gap alimony for a maximum of two years. It can cover expenses such as living expenses while the spouse is waiting for the family home to sell.

Lump-sum alimony 

This type of alimony is paid as a lump sum from one spouse to the other. Instead of making monthly payments, the spouse would make one lump sum payment to the other spouse. It is generally used as a means of balancing out the distribution of assets in a divorce. In other words, one spouse may keep more of their assets if they agree to make a monetary payment to the other spouse.

Talk to an Orlando Divorce Attorney Today 

Greater Orlando Family Law represents the interests of spouses seeking alimony in Orlando. We can help advocate on your behalf and ensure that you are supported directly after your marriage. Call our office today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin representing your interests right away.