Spousal Support
Spousal support, called alimony in Florida, is money one spouse may be ordered to pay the other after a divorce to address financial need and the other spouse's ability to pay. Florida courts can award several types — bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, and durational — based on factors like the length of the marriage and each spouse's finances. Note that permanent alimony was eliminated for cases filed on or after July 1, 2023, so it is no longer an option in new Florida cases.
Last updated June 21, 2026
Legal Definition
Under F.S. §61.08, spousal support (alimony) is a court-ordered payment from one spouse to another, awarded only after the court finds an actual need and the other party's ability to pay, then selects an appropriate form and amount considering the statutory factors.
Example
Because she had paused her career to raise their children, the court considered rehabilitative spousal support to help her re-enter the workforce.
Related Statutes
- 61.08
Related Terms
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