Legislature Creates New Alimony In Florida
Effective July 1, 2010, the Florida legislature created a completely new form of alimony in the state. It is called “Durational Alimony”, and is awarded for a set period of time, rather than permanently. Unlike rehabilitative alimony, it does not require any rehabilitative plan. It is expressly awardable in marriages in which permanent periodic alimony is not applicable, such as short-term (7 years or less) and moderate-term (greater than 7 years, but less than 17 years) marriages. The new revised statutory provision reads as follows:
“(7) Durational alimony may be awarded when permanent periodic alimony is inappropriate. 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. An award of durational alimony terminates upon the death of either party or upon the remarriage of the party receiving alimony. The amount of an award of durational alimony may be modified or terminated based upon a substantial change in circumstances in accordance with s. 61.14. However, the length of an award of durational alimony may not be modified except under exceptional circumstances and may not exceed the length of the marriage.”
Steven W. Hair, divorce attorney, Clearwater, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor
For more information, visit our website at www.FamilyLawClearwater.com