Alimony in Florida

There are a number of factors at work in determining who is entitled to alimony and how much will be paid. Florida has a unique alimony statute that takes into consideration the length of your marriage. Marriages are divided into three categories which may affect both the amount and duration of alimony. Marriages under seven years are deemed ‘short duration’ and carry a presumption of limited alimony. From seven to seventeen years are ‘moderate-duration’ and carry a presumption of alimony for more years than ‘short-duration’ marriages. Marriages over seventeen years are deemed ‘long-duration’ and carry a presumption of permanent alimony. The court will look to a party’s ‘need’ for alimony and the other party’s ‘ability’ to pay it in determining the amount and duration of alimony. In helping you determine your need or your spouse’s need for alimony and the amount and duration of alimony, you will need to consult with a qualified and experienced family law attorney.