How Long Do You Have to Be Married in Florida to Receive Alimony?
Divorce is not only an emotionally challenging experience. It can also be financially difficult. This is particularly true for people who relied on their spouse to provide for them financially during the marriage. In certain cases, spousal support, commonly referred to as alimony, can help make the transition to single life easier. In July of 2023, permanent alimony was eliminated from Florida law. Today, the courts may award durational alimony instead.
There are many factors that are considered when awarding alimony, and the length of the marriage is one of them. Below, one of our Tampa alimony lawyers explains in further detail.
Duration of Marriages in Florida
Although the length of a marriage can impact whether alimony is awarded, as well as the amount, the law does not outline a specific amount of time someone must have been married in order to receive spousal support. Family law judges typically evaluate the lives and circumstances of the couple and of each spouse. Still, the alimony law in Florida defines the length of marriages. These include:
- Short-term marriages: Up to 10 years of marriage
- Moderate-term marriages: Between 10 and 20 years of marriage
- Long-term marriage: Over 20 years of marriage
The above categories significantly impact alimony decisions. The longer a couple has been married, the more likely it is that one spouse became dependent on their partner during the marriage, or became adjusted to a certain lifestyle they cannot support on their own. As such, the more alimony they may be awarded during divorce. Family law judges will take this into account to help ensure the lower-earning spouse receives a similar amount of support.
Types of Alimony Available in Florida
Again, permanent alimony was abolished in Florida in 2023. However, there are still many types of alimony available in Florida. These are as follows:
- Bridge-the-gap: This type of alimony is short-term and is intended to help a financially dependent spouse make the transition from being married to single life and being financially independent. Bridge-the-gap alimony lasts only two years and cannot be modified once it has been ordered.
- Rehabilitative: This type of support is meant to help a spouse earning the training, education, or job skill development they need to become self-sufficient. Rehabilitative alimony is usually limited to no more than five years.
- Durational: This type of alimony is meant to help a dependent spouse who is experiencing financial hardship, a disability, or limited job prospects. Spouses caring for a dependent who has special needs may also receive durational alimony. This type of support is only available when a marriage lasts at least three years but it cannot exceed the duration of the marriage.
Our Alimony Lawyers in Tampa Can Help with Your Case
If you need to pursue alimony during divorce, or defend against unfair requests for it, our Tampa alimony lawyers at All Family Law Group, P.A. can help. Call us today at 813-672-1900 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced and get the legal help you need with your case. Se Habla Espanol.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.08.html
