There are five types of alimony in Florida, namely: (1) temporary alimony; (2) bridge-the-gap alimony; (3) rehabilitative alimony; (4) durational alimony; and (5) permanent alimony.

Temporary alimony (“spousal support”) may be awarded to assist a spouse in need while his/her divorce case (“dissolution of marriage”) is pending.

So called “bridge-the-gap” alimony may be available to a spouse who can show a “legitimate, identifiable, short-term need.” This form of alimony is intended to provide financial assistance to a spouse during the transition phase from being married to single.

Rehabilitative alimony may be used to “establish the capacity for self-support of the receiving spouse, either through redevelopment of previous skills or provision of the training necessary to develop potential supportive skills.”

As section 61.08(7) of the Florida Statutes provides, the “purpose of durational alimony is to provide a party with economic assistance for a set period of time following a marriage of short or moderate duration or following a marriage of long duration if there is no ongoing need for support on a permanent basis.”

And finally, permanent alimony was created and is available under certain, limited situations to provide for the needs of a former spouse as those needs were established during the parties’ marriage.

Should you have questions about how alimony may apply in your case, whether you are the potential payor (“obligor”) spouse or whether you are the potential payee (“obligee”) spouse, please do not hesitate to contact our experienced team at Coffman Family Law here or by calling 407-399-7440.