Navigating divorce can be emotionally and financially overwhelming. One of the most significant concerns for separating couples is alimony in Florida — a legal financial obligation that one spouse may owe the other after a marriage ends. Understanding how alimony works, what factors influence the decision, and how much you might expect to pay or receive is crucial to securing your future.
In this guide, we provide a detailed, easy-to-understand breakdown of alimony in Florida, who qualifies for it, how courts calculate it, and how legal experts like Dewitt Law can assist you throughout the process.
What Is Alimony in Florida?
Alimony in Florida is the financial support that a court may order one spouse to pay to the other during or after a divorce. The primary goal is to ensure that neither spouse experiences extreme financial hardship due to the end of the marriage. Florida courts focus on balancing the economic disparity that often exists between spouses, especially in long-term marriages.
It is not automatically awarded — the spouse requesting alimony must prove both a need for financial support and that the other spouse has the ability to pay.
Types of Alimony in Florida
Florida law recognizes several types of alimony, each serving a different purpose based on the circumstances of the marriage and the needs of the spouse.
1. Temporary Alimony
Awarded during the divorce process to help a lower-earning spouse maintain stability until the divorce is finalized.
2. Bridge-the-Gap Alimony
This short-term support helps one spouse transition from married life to single life. It cannot exceed two years and is not modifiable after being ordered.
3. Rehabilitative Alimony
Designed to support a spouse while they gain education, training, or work experience to become self-supporting. A detailed rehabilitation plan must be presented to the court.
4. Durational Alimony
Awarded for a set period of time, generally not exceeding the length of the marriage. It is common in moderate-length marriages.
5. Permanent Alimony
Less common today, permanent alimony is typically reserved for long-term marriages where one spouse cannot become self-supporting due to age, disability, or lengthy time out of the workforce.
How Courts Determine Alimony in Florida
When deciding on alimony in Florida, the court considers a range of statutory factors under Florida Statute §61.08. These include:
Length of the marriage
Standard of living established during the marriage
Age and physical/emotional health of each spouse
Financial resources and income of both parties
Contributions to the marriage (child-rearing, homemaking, education)
Earning capacity and time needed to gain employment or education
Any tax consequences of alimony
There is no fixed formula, but calculators and legal tools can help estimate expected payments. However, final amounts are always subject to a judge’s discretion.
Recent Legal Changes Affecting Alimony in Florida
Florida lawmakers have made significant changes to alimony laws in recent years. One of the most impactful updates is the elimination of permanent alimony in many cases, signaling a shift toward durational and rehabilitative alimony that encourages both spouses to become financially independent.
If you're currently paying or receiving alimony, or expecting to request it, it’s essential to understand how these updates affect your rights. Dewitt Law stays up to date with every legislative change, ensuring clients receive accurate, current guidance.
How Long Does Alimony Last in Florida?
The duration of alimony in Florida depends heavily on the type of alimony and the length of the marriage:
Short-term marriage (under 7 years): Bridge-the-gap or rehabilitative alimony is more likely.
Moderate-term marriage (7–17 years): Durational alimony is commonly awarded.
Long-term marriage (17+ years): Courts may consider longer or indefinite alimony, though permanent alimony is now rare.
The court aims to help spouses become self-sufficient, so even long-term support can have review dates or modification clauses built in.
Can Alimony Be Modified in Florida?
Yes, alimony in Florida can often be modified if there's a substantial change in circumstances. Examples include:
Loss of job or major reduction in income
Retirement
Remarriage of the recipient spouse
Significant health changes
Modifications require court approval, and you must present proof of the change. A knowledgeable attorney like those at Dewitt Law can help you file the proper documentation and argue your case effectively.
Enforcing Alimony Orders in Florida
If a court has ordered alimony and your ex-spouse fails to pay, you have the legal right to pursue enforcement. Florida courts can take actions such as:
Garnishing wages
Seizing bank accounts
Placing liens on property
Suspending driver’s licenses
The Florida Department of Revenue may also be involved in enforcement actions for unpaid alimony.
Do I Need an Attorney for Alimony in Florida?
While it’s possible to represent yourself, divorce and alimony laws in Florida can be complex and constantly evolving. Missteps can lead to long-term financial hardship. An experienced legal team like Dewitt Law will ensure your rights are protected, help you navigate negotiations, and present strong arguments in court when necessary.
Their expertise in family law allows them to assess your situation accurately, guide you through the documentation process, and even help estimate potential alimony using reliable tools.
Final Thoughts on Alimony in Florida
Understanding alimony in Florida is critical whether you're the paying or receiving spouse. With several types of alimony, evolving laws, and countless factors involved, having accurate information is your best defense during a divorce.
Be proactive. Use Florida-specific calculators to get estimates, consult with legal professionals like Dewitt Law, and make informed decisions about your financial future. Whether you're negotiating, modifying, or enforcing alimony, knowledge and preparation can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case.
