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Florida's alimony reform bill, signed into law on June 30, 2023 by Governor Ron DeSantis, introduces significant changes to the state's alimony laws. Effective from July 1, 2023, the legislation impacts initial dissolution of marriage petitions and those pending.
The reform eliminates permanent alimony and introduces four types: temporary, bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, and durational alimony. Payments can be made in a lump sum or through periodic installments, depending on the Court's decision.
Under the new law, Courts are permitted to consider adultery and its financial consequences when determining the amount of alimony to award.
Courts must consider factors such as the financial need of the requesting party and the paying party's ability to provide support. Additional considerations include the parties' standard of living during the marriage, marriage duration, age, health, income, education, employability, contributions made to the marriage, parenting responsibilities, and other relevant factors to ensure fairness.
Marriages are now classified as short-term (less than 10 years), moderate-term (10 to 20 years), or long-term (20 years or more). The duration is calculated from the date of marriage to the filing date for divorce.
Types of Alimony and Their Limits
Bridge-the-gap alimony: Helps the transition from married to single life by addressing short-term needs. Duration is limited to a maximum of two years.
Rehabilitative alimony: Aids in acquiring education or training to achieve self-support or contribute to personal support. The duration may not exceed five years.
Durational alimony: Provided for a set period, it cannot exceed 50% of a short-term marriage, 60% of a moderate-term marriage, or 75% of a long-term marriage. Exceptional circumstances may warrant an extension. The amount should meet the recipient's reasonable needs or be less than 35% of the difference between the parties' net incomes.
To facilitate alimony calculations, an Excel spreadsheet can be utilized. This tool helps individuals determine alimony amounts based on their unique circumstances.
An Excel file is listed below for help in alimony calculations. For any assistance please contact us at 407-233-4180 or check out our homepage.