Clear guidance under Florida’s new alimony law.
Florida changed its alimony law in 2023, and many people are unsure what to expect. Whether you may receive or pay alimony, attorney Jessica Ramirez-Garcia explains your options and works toward a fair result for Miami-Dade and Broward clients, in English or Spanish.
Call (305) 201-0529 · Hablamos Español
What changed in Florida alimony law
Since July 1, 2023, Florida courts can no longer award new permanent alimony. Any alimony awarded now has limits on how long it can last, and the person asking for alimony must show a real need and that the other spouse is able to pay.
Types of alimony in Florida
- Temporary alimony: support while the divorce is pending.
- Bridge-the-gap alimony: short-term help moving from married to single life, up to 2 years.
- Rehabilitative alimony: support while a spouse gets education or training to become self-supporting, up to 5 years, with a specific plan.
- Durational alimony: support for a set period, limited by the length of the marriage.
For durational alimony, Florida looks at the length of the marriage. It generally cannot last longer than 50% of a marriage under 10 years, 60% of a marriage of 10 to 20 years, or 75% of a marriage of 20 years or more. Short marriages under 3 years usually do not qualify.
What the court considers
- Each spouse’s income, earning ability, and financial resources
- The standard of living during the marriage
- Each spouse’s age, health, and education
- Contributions to the marriage, including homemaking and child care
- The tax effects of alimony and how property is being divided
How we help
- Building the case for alimony with clear proof of need
- Defending against unfair requests and showing the limits of what you can pay
- Negotiating settlements that both sides can live with
- Modifying or ending alimony after a change in circumstances, such as retirement
Why clients choose JRG Law
- Bilingual representation in English and Spanish.
- Personal attention. You work directly with Jessica, a Florida Bar member since 2018.
- A compassionate approach shaped by her background in psychology.
- Two offices, by appointment in Coral Gables and West Kendall.
Frequently asked questions
Is permanent alimony still available in Florida?
No, not for new cases. Courts may award only temporary, bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, or durational alimony.
Does the new law change my existing permanent alimony?
It does not automatically end existing awards, but it may affect a request to modify one, for example at retirement. We can review your situation.
Does adultery affect alimony?
The court can consider adultery and how it affected the family’s finances, but it is one factor among many.
Can alimony be changed later?
Most alimony can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances, unless the agreement says otherwise.
Talk to a Miami alimony lawyer today
Call (305) 201-0529 or schedule your free consultation online. We serve families throughout Miami-Dade and Broward. Se habla español.
The information on this page is general and is not legal advice. Every case is different, and past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.