Alimony
Alimony in Florida Divorce
Understanding Florida’s Updated Alimony Rules
Florida Alimony Law Has Changed, know what to expect! Spousal support can affect your future for years, make sure you have clarity, strategy, and a steady hand on your side.
Whether you expect to pay or receive alimony, it’s one of the most misunderstood — and most emotionally charged — parts of divorce.
As of July 1, 2023, Florida implemented significant reforms to its alimony laws, including the elimination of permanent alimony in all divorce cases filed on or after that date. In its place are more defined rules about what support is available, when it applies, and how long it lasts.
At Justin Andersson, P.A., we help clients across Panama City, Panama City Beach, and all of Northwest Florida understand exactly how alimony works — and how to protect your financial interests on either side.
Navigating Florida’s Alimony Structure
What Types of Alimony Exist in Florida?
Florida Statutes § 61.08 now allows for four forms of alimony (spousal support):
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Temporary Alimony
- Support paid while the divorce is pending. Designed to maintain the financial status quo until the case is finalized.
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Bridge-the-Gap Alimony
- Short-term support (up to 2 years) to help one spouse transition from married to single life. Not modifiable and ends upon death or remarriage.
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Rehabilitative Alimony
- Support provided to help a spouse become self-supporting through education, job training, or career development. Requires a specific written rehabilitative plan. Duration and amount vary.
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Durational Alimony
- Designed to provide financial assistance for a set period not to exceed the length of the marriage. Only available in moderate to long-term marriages and only when no other alimony is appropriate.
Plan Smarter Under Florida’s New Alimony Law
Alimony Reform Highlights (Florida 2023)
- Permanent alimony is no longer awarded in cases after July 1, 2023.
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Durational limits are tied to length of marriage:
- Short-term (under 10 years): up to 50% of marriage duration
- Moderate-term (10–20 years): up to 60%
- Long-term (20+ years): up to 75%
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Amount is capped at the lesser of:
- The recipient’s reasonable needs, or
- 35% of the payor’s net income
- Modifications can occur if retirement, job loss, or life changes are proven
Fair Support Starts with These Core Considerations
Factors That Affect Alimony in Florida
Judges weigh multiple factors when deciding alimony:
- The length of the marriage
- The standard of living established during the marriage
- Each party’s income and earning potential
- Whether one spouse sacrificed career or education for the family
- Age and health of both spouses
- Contributions to the marriage — both financial and non-financial (e.g., homemaking, childrearing)
Alimony FAQs
Common Questions We Hear
No. Permanent alimony has been abolished. Durational limits now apply.
The law now includes caps based on your net income. We’ll help present a full financial picture.
Some forms of alimony (like durational and rehabilitative) can be modified, but only with significant changes in circumstances.
We can formalize your agreement into a legally binding document that complies with Florida’s current laws.
Alimony Service Locations
We provide knowledgeable alimony representation throughout Bay County, including:
Whether you are seeking alimony, contesting a request, or modifying an existing alimony order, we help you understand your rights and pursue a fair financial outcome based on Florida law.
What We Do for You
- Assess your eligibility or exposure for any type of alimony
- Build financial disclosures and present a clear picture of income and expenses
- Draft or challenge rehabilitative plans when needed
- Represent your interests in mediation or court
- Negotiate durable, realistic terms that protect your future
Dedicated to Your Future
WHY CHOOSE JUSTIN ANDERSSON, P.A.?
- Clarity, Strategy, and Real Guidance
- Focused on Divorce & Family Law
- Honest Communication
- Personalized Support
Who We Serve
Proudly Representing Families Throughout the Florida Panhandle
From the coast to the Wiregrass line, we provide trusted legal representation in:
Bay County
(Home Base)
- Panama City
- Panama City Beach
- Lynn Haven
- Callaway
- Mexico Beach
- Springfield
- Parker
Surrounding Areas
- Jackson County
- Marianna
- Graceville
- Sneads
- Gulf County
- Port St. Joe
- Wewahitchka
- Calhoun County
- Blountstown
- Altha
- Washington County
- Chipley
- Vernon
- Holmes County
- Bonifay
- Ponce de Leon
Wider Northwest
Florida & Panhandle Region
- Walton County
- Defuniak Springs
- Freeport
- Santa Rosa Beach
- Okaloosa County
- Fort Walton Beach
- Crestview
- Niceville
- Santa Rosa County
- Milton
- Navarre
- Escambia County
- Pensacola
- Cantonment
- Gulf Breeze
Whether you live in Panama City or commute in from across the Panhandle, we offer virtual consultations, flexible scheduling, and personalized legal support from a team that understands Northwest Florida values.
Ready to take the next step?
Schedule a Consultation
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