Experienced Clearwater, FL Alimony Attorney Eager to Resolve Your Spousal Support Disputes

What is alimony?

Florida law intends for alimony, or spousal support, to be a short-term, moderate-term or long-term solution ordered by the court, with one spouse paying the other after divorce. If you are involved in an alimony dispute, you need a divorce litigator. Jennifer C. Harrington, P.A. simplifies the process and gets you the payment you rightfully deserve.

During a divorce proceeding, once assets and debt have been equitably distributed, the court may award spousal support, also called alimony. The judge considers the following factors:

  • Length of marriage
  • Prior standard of living
  • Age
  • Physical and emotional state
  • Financial resources
  • Income-producing capability
  • Time necessary to find appropriate employment
  • Homemaking and childrearing by one spouse to benefit the education and career progression of the other
  • Any other factors essential to establishing equity between the parties

What are the different types of alimony?

Alimony in Florida can be awarded in the following forms:

  • Bridge-the-gap — Bridge-the-gap alimony is intended to allow a smooth transition from married life back to single life. The goal is to cover expenses for vehicles and other necessities and for obtaining a new place to live. This type of alimony typically lasts for two years.
  • Rehabilitative — Rehabilitative alimony is intended to assist in developing the skills necessary for employment and paving the way to financial independence. Rehabilitation support covers the costs of schooling or training.
  • Durational — The goal of durational alimony is to provide economic aid to a spouse for a specific amount of time.
  • Permanent — Permanent alimony provides financial support for a spouse who is unable to independently continue the same lifestyle enjoyed during the marriage because of financial limitations. The court awards permanent alimony after considering the circumstances of both parties and determining the length of marriage to be 17 years or more.
  • Temporary — This alimony provides support during the divorce process.

Length of marriage may determine alimony type

The length of the marriage plays a particularly crucial role in determining spousal support. The following classifications define the length of marriage:

  • Short term — A marriage lasting less than seven years
  • Moderate term — A marriage lasting between seven and 17 years
  • Long term — A marriage lasting more than 17 years

The marriage period ends when one spouse files for dissolution of the marriage, even if the spouses have been living apart.

Bridge-the-gap and rehabilitative alimony generally apply to short- and moderate-term marriages. Durational and permanent alimony awards end if either party dies or the spouse receiving alimony remarries. Alimony modification or termination may be possible in the event that one or both spouses experience a substantial change in circumstances.

Rely on an experienced Florida alimony lawyer to fight for what's rightfully yours and to protect your best interests

The team at Jennifer C. Harrington, P.A. is ready to help you get the spousal support you deserve. We develop strategies to fit your situation and present the facts. For a consultation, call 727-787-3700 or contact us online. Office hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The office closes for lunch daily from noon to 1 p.m.