Alimony & Spousal Support in Florida

Alimony, also known as spousal support, can play an important role in a Florida divorce case. Whether you are seeking support or defending against an alimony claim, understanding how Florida law applies to your situation is essential. At The Law Office of Chaye R. Smith, PLLC, we provide clear guidance and strong advocacy to protect your financial interests while helping you plan for the future.

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What Is Alimony?

Alimony is financial support paid by one spouse to the other after a divorce. Courts evaluate each party’s financial resources, income, and needs to determine whether alimony should be awarded. Because no two families are alike, alimony is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, Florida law requires judges to consider the unique circumstances of each case in order to create a fair outcome.

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Common factors considered include:

• Each spouse’s income, assets, and financial resources

• The length of the marriage

• Standard of living during the marriage

• Each party’s age, health, and ability to work
  Contributions made to the marriage, including child-rearing and homemaking

• The financial needs of the spouse requesting support and the other spouse’s ability to pay

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Types of Alimony in Florida

Florida recognizes several different types of alimony, each serving a distinct purpose:

• Bridge-the-gap alimony – Short-term support (up to two years) to help a spouse transition to single life.

• Rehabilitative alimony – Support that helps a spouse obtain education, training, or work experience to become self-supporting (limited to five years).

• Durational alimony – Support for a set period of time after a marriage of at least three years. The amount cannot exceed the recipient’s reasonable need or 35% of the difference between the spouses’ net incomes.
   

Recent Changes to Florida Alimony Laws

As of July 1, 2023, Florida made significant updates to alimony law:

• Permanent alimony eliminated – Lifetime alimony is no longer available.
  Supportive relationships – Courts must reduce or end alimony if the receiving spouse enters a new supportive relationship.

• Rehabilitative alimony limited – May not exceed five years.

• Durational alimony restrictions – Cannot be awarded for marriages under three years; amount capped at need or 35% of income difference.

• Marriage length definitions updated – Short-term (up to 10 years), moderate-term (10–20 years), long-term (20+ years).
   

These changes reflect a shift toward fairness and encouraging independence, making it more important than ever to have experienced representation.

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Modifying or Ending Alimony

If circumstances change after a divorce, Florida law allows for modification of alimony orders. Common reasons for modification include:

• Job loss or significant change in income

• Serious health issues

• Remarriage or a new supportive relationship of the recipient spouse

• Cost-of-living or financial adjustments
   

Whether you are requesting a change or opposing one, our office can guide you through the process and advocate for your interests.

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Why Legal Guidance Matters

Alimony cases can feel overwhelming, but working with an experienced family law attorney ensures your rights are protected. We help clients:

• Understand their rights under Florida’s updated alimony laws

• Accurately assess financial needs and obligations

• Negotiate fair settlements or pursue relief in court
  Reduce stress by handling the legal complexities​​​

Our Commitment to You