Orlando Alimony Attorney — Navigating Florida’s Spousal Support Laws

Alimony — also called spousal support — is one of the most contested issues in Florida divorces. Whether you are seeking financial support after a long marriage or defending against what you believe is an unfair alimony demand, the stakes are high and the law is nuanced. Florida’s alimony laws were significantly reformed in 2023, eliminating permanent alimony and making substantial changes to durational alimony. Working with an up-to-date, experienced Orlando divorce attorney is essential.

Types of Alimony Under Florida Law

Under Florida Statute §61.08 as amended in 2023, Florida recognizes three main types of alimony: bridge-the-gap alimony (short-term, maximum two years, helping a spouse transition to single life), rehabilitative alimony (supports a spouse while they develop self-sufficiency through education or job training, based on a specific plan), and durational alimony (for a set period not exceeding 50% of the length of a short or moderate marriage, or 60% for a long marriage). Temporary alimony may also be awarded during the divorce proceedings themselves.

How Florida Courts Determine Alimony

Courts first consider whether the requesting spouse has a need for alimony and whether the other spouse has the ability to pay. If both elements are present, the court then evaluates factors including the standard of living established during the marriage, the length of the marriage, the age and physical and emotional condition of both parties, each party’s financial resources, contributions to the marriage (including homemaking and supporting the other spouse’s career), and each party’s earning capacity.

Modifying and Terminating Alimony in Florida

Durational and rehabilitative alimony can be modified upon a showing of a substantial change in circumstances. Alimony automatically terminates upon the death of either party, and Florida law provides for modification or termination if the recipient enters into a ‘supportive relationship’ (cohabitation with a new partner who contributes to their financial support, even without remarriage).

Frequently Asked Questions — Alimony in Florida

Was permanent alimony eliminated in Florida?

Yes. As of July 1, 2023, Florida eliminated the award of permanent alimony under the new alimony reform law. Only bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, and durational alimony are now available.

How long must I be married to qualify for alimony in Florida?

There is no strict minimum, but the length of the marriage is a key factor. Under the 2023 reform, a ‘short-term’ marriage is under 10 years, a ‘moderate-term’ marriage is 10–20 years, and a ‘long-term’ marriage is 20 or more years. Longer marriages generally result in longer and higher alimony awards.

Can alimony be included in a prenuptial agreement?

Yes. Florida law allows parties to waive or limit alimony in a valid prenuptial agreement, as long as the agreement was entered into voluntarily with full financial disclosure.

Is alimony taxable in Florida?

Under current federal tax law (post-2018 divorces), alimony is neither deductible by the payer nor includable as income by the recipient. Consult a tax professional regarding your specific situation.

Contact Grace Law PA Today — Free Case Evaluation

If you are facing this situation in Orlando or Central Florida, do not wait. Attorney Grace Flores offers free consultations and fights for the results you deserve — in English and Spanish.

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