In Florida, spousal support isn’t an automatic right in divorce proceedings. One spouse needs to request alimony and show financial need while the other spouse must have the ability to pay. The following types of alimony are what a Florida court may award:

• Temporary spousal support: This type of spousal support ensures the lower-earning spouse gets financial help during the divorce process. It’s designed to help them keep up with their living costs until the court makes a final decision on permanent support.
• Bridge-the-gap spousal support: This is a temporary financial boost that helps one spouse transition to single life. This type of support is meant to be short term, usually lasting up to two years, to help with specific needs. The key thing to know is that the amount and length are set in stone and can’t be modified later. It only terminates if either party dies or if the receiving spouse remarries.
• Rehabilitative spousal support: This type of support is meant to help a spouse get on a path to financial independence. It’s tied to a very specific, court-approved plan. The court will check in to make sure the plan is being followed and can adjust payments if a spouse completes rehabilitation earlier than expected.
• Durational spousal support: This provides economic assistance for a set period following marriages of moderate duration. This cannot exceed the length of the marriage itself and may be appropriate when permanent alimony isn’t suitable. While the amount can be modified based on a major change in circumstances of either party, the duration cannot be altered except in exceptional cases.
• Permanent spousal support: This type of alimony continues indefinitely for spouses who cannot maintain the standard of living established during marriage. Courts typically reserve this support for long-term marriages (17-plus years). It may apply in moderate-length unions (7-17 years) under specific circumstances.

Since spousal support isn’t guaranteed, you need to present a compelling case supported by thorough financial documentation and legal arguments. With our spousal support attorneys’ help, you can effectively present your financial situation to the family court.