Exploring Different Types of Alimony

Temporary Alimony

Temporary alimony is a type of financial support that a spouse gets during the divorce proceedings. The aim of temporary alimony is to ensure that the recipient maintains the same standard of living when transitioning from marriage to single life. It is meant to address immediate financial needs like housing and groceries when the divorce case is in progress. The court will determine how much money the receiving spouse can get and for how long. Temporary alimony usually ends once the divorce is finalized.

Rehabilitative Alimony

This is a temporary financial assistance that can help the receiving spouse train for a job, pursue education, or find other means of finances to gain independence. There is usually a clear plan in place for the recipient to gain independence within a period of time, after which the alimony payment ends. The court considers factors like the duration of the rehabilitation, the costs for training or education and the financial ability of the paying spouse. The aim of rehabilitative alimony is to make a transition to post-marital life more manageable.

Permanent Alimony

Permanent alimony is a long-term form of financial assistance that does not have a predetermined end date. The payment will continue until the recipient's spouse remarries or one of the spouses passes away. Permanent alimony is granted when one spouse can’t achieve financial independence due to factors like age or a chronic illness. The alimony amount will depend on the length of the marriage, financial situation of each spouse and their contribution to the marriage. However, Florida alimony laws allow for modification or termination of permanent alimony depending on the circumstances.

Reimbursement Alimony

This is a form of spousal support that compensates a spouse for their significant contributions to the marriage. It may be through financial investments or the sacrifices they made during the marriage. Reimbursement alimony is all about repaying one spouse for the expenses they incurred on behalf of the other. For instance, if one couple paid for the other's education during their marriage, then reimbursement alimony may be granted.

Lump Sum Alimony

Lump sum alimony is where one couple provides a lump sum payment to the receiving spouse instead of ongoing payments. This agreement may occur when the divorcing couple agrees to sever their financial ties completely. Once the payment is made, there are no other financial obligations between the partners.

Bottom Line

No cases are the same, so the availability and criteria for each type of alimony may vary. That's why it's a good idea to get a divorce lawyer when it comes to figuring out alimony. A reliable divorce lawyer can help make sure both spouses get a fair deal.