When a marriage breaks down, the process of disentangling financially from a soon-to-be former spouse can be complicated. Many people put their careers on hold to take care of shared children, and others are not healthy enough to work. To ensure they have the resources they need, state law allows for alimony awards.
In total, there are four distinct types of alimony in Florida, and permanent alimony no longer exists due to a law change. These awards are only available under certain circumstances, and many divorce orders will not include these payments at all. It is possible for a spouse to also receive more than one of these types of support during the course of their lifetime. An experienced spousal support attorney can answer questions about eligibility.
Temporary Alimony
As the name suggests, temporary alimony only provides monetary support to a spouse for a limited amount of time. These payments are designed to provide for the lower-earning spouse while they navigate the divorce process. This type of award is often necessary, since difficult divorces can take years to resolve. Judges are empowered to make this award so that a person’s strained finances do not result in them accepting an unreasonable offer just to ensure their basic needs are met in the short-term.
This type of Florida alimony award does not last forever, but it is important to understand that the terms of the temporary order could exactly reflect the final decision of the court. For this reason, it is crucial to have an attorney step in early on in the process.
Bridge-The-Gap Alimony
Bridge-the-gap alimony also has a limited duration, but it differs from a temporary award in that it goes into effect after the divorce is finalized. Its purpose is to maintain a spouse’s quality of life as they transition from marriage to single life, and payments cannot last for more than two years. They are typically set to expire after a specific event, like the sale of the family home.
Rehabilitative Alimony
The courts also have the power to award rehabilitative alimony. This type of Florida alimony is intended to last long enough for the lower-earning spouse to become self-sufficient. It requires a plan that involves completing a college degree or workplace training that will enable the spouse to secure employment. The plan should have a set duration and a breakdown of what it will cost. Regardless of the specifics of the plan, rehabilitative alimony can never exceed five years.
Durational Alimony
Durational alimony lasts for a set amount of time, but the court has some flexibility on extending these payments as necessary. This option exists to support a spouse financially due to the difference between their quality of life during the marriage and their ability to support themselves now. While the court can extend these payments when needed, durational alimony can never last longer than the length of the marriage.
Talk to a Lawyer in Florida About the Different Types of Alimony
Determining whether you owe, or are owed, spousal support is a challenge all its own, and securing an order in your favor is another. To learn about the types of alimony in Florida and determine your eligibility, it is a good idea to discuss your options with a legal professional.
If you have questions about your right to spousal support, The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm is here to help. Contact us for a free case evaluation as soon as possible.