Durational Alimony in Florida Divorces

Governor Charlie Crist recently signed a new law that introduces a new type of alimony to Florida family law cases. Durational alimony is the name of the new type of alimony that may be awarded in Florida divorce cases. According to the new law, durational alimony may be awarded when permanent alimony is inappropriate.

The new statute states that 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. Durational alimony terminates upon the death of either party or upon the remarriage of the party receiving alimony.

The amount of durational alimony paid may be modified or terminated based on a substantial change in circumstances, but the length of a durational alimony award may not be modified. One interesting characteristic of durational alimony is that the length of the award is not allowed to exceed the length of the parties' marriage.

Contact an expert Tampa family law attorney to see if this new type of alimony applies to your situation.