How is Durational Alimony Determined in Florida in 2024?
In 2023, a comprehensive alimony reform bill was signed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The legislation—Senate Bill 1416 (SB 1416)—ended permanent alimony in Florida. For all divorces in 2024 and beyond, durational alimony is the longest lasting type of spousal support in our state. At the Law Office of Gale H. Moore P.A., we have extensive experience with alimony cases. Here, our Clearwater, FL alimony lawyer provides a comprehensive guide to the key things to know about how durational alimony is determined in Florida in 2024.
What is Durational Alimony in Florida?
Durational alimony in Florida is a form of spousal support designed to provide economic assistance for a specific, limited period of time. The length of durational alimony depends on the specific circumstances of the divorce. With that being said, Florida law limits durational alimony based on the length of the marriage.
An Overview of How Long Durational Alimony Can Last in Florida
How long will durational alimony last? Florida law limits the maximum length of durational alimony based on the length of the marriage. There are three classifications of marriages in Florida:
- Short Term Marriage: A short-term marriage is less than 10 years. Durational alimony is limited to 50 percent of the length of the marriage.
- Moderate Term Marriage: A moderate-term marriage is 10 years to 20 years. Durational alimony is limited to 60 percent of the length of the marriage.
- Long Term Marriage: A long-term marriage is more than 20 years. Durational alimony is limited to 75 percent of the length of the marriage.
Note: Florida law limits the maximum length of durational alimony. It could be awarded for a shorter period of time. Further, it is not guaranteed to be awarded at all.
How is Durational Alimony Calculated in Florida?
Durational alimony in Florida is calculated by considering several factors, including the financial resources and incomes of both parties and the standard of living established during the marriage. The amount of alimony awarded aims to meet the recipient’s reasonable needs and is now capped at 35 percent of the difference between the parties’ net incomes.
As a general guide to give you an understanding of how much durational alimony you may be entitled to receive (or required to pay), our law firm has put together a Florida Durational Alimony Calculator. It is an easy tool that can be used for general guidance. You simply need to know the length of the marriage, the income of both spouses, and the reasonable expenses of each spouse.
Set Up a Confidential Consultation With Our Clearwater, FL Alimony Lawyer Today
At the Law Office of Gale H. Moore P.A., our Clearwater family lawyer has the skills and experience to handle all types of alimony cases. If you have any specific questions or concerns about durational alimony, please do not hesitate to contact our family law team today for your completely confidential case review. We provide divorce representation throughout Pinellas County.
Source:
flsenate.gov/Committees/BillSummaries/2023/html/2984#:~:text=CS%2FSB%201416%20%E2%80%94%20Dissolution%20of%20Marriage&text=The%20option%20to%20award%20permanent,of%20less%20than%203%20years
