Strategic and Compassionate Alimony Representation Focused on Your Future
Spousal support—commonly referred to as alimony—can play a major role in the financial outcome of a divorce. Whether you are seeking support or may be required to pay it, alimony decisions can affect your finances for years to come. Because of the long-term implications, it is critical to approach these issues thoughtfully and with experienced legal guidance.
At Allison Rub, P.A., we represent clients throughout Miami and surrounding areas in spousal support matters, providing practical advice, clear explanations, and strong advocacy tailored to each client’s circumstances and goals.
Alimony and Spousal Support: Is There a Difference?
In Florida, the terms “alimony” and “spousal support” are used interchangeably. Both refer to court-ordered payments made by one spouse to the other following separation or divorce.
Types of Alimony Available in Florida
Florida law recognizes several forms of alimony, each designed to address different financial situations:
- Temporary alimony: Support awarded during the divorce process to maintain financial stability until the case is finalized
- Bridge-the-gap alimony: Short-term assistance intended to cover specific transitional needs as a spouse adjusts to single life, limited to a maximum of two years
- Rehabilitative alimony: Support awarded for up to five years to help a spouse gain education, training, or experience necessary to become self-supporting
- Durational alimony: Support paid for a defined period of time, generally tied to the length of the marriage
We help clients understand which type—or combination—of alimony may apply based on their unique circumstances.
How Alimony Is Established
Alimony is not automatic in a Florida divorce. It may be established in one of two ways:
- Through a negotiated agreement between spouses that is approved by the court
- Through a court decision after one party formally requests alimony and the judge determines it is warranted
Whether your case is resolved through negotiation or litigation, we work to pursue outcomes that align with your financial needs and long-term objectives.
Factors Florida Courts Consider When Awarding Alimony
Before awarding spousal support, a Florida court must generally find that one spouse has a genuine financial need and the other has the ability to pay. If those threshold requirements are met, the court considers several factors, including:
- The standard of living established during the marriage
- The length of the marriage
- The age and physical and emotional health of each spouse
- Each party’s income, assets, and earning capacity
- Contributions to the marriage, including homemaking and child care
Our team applies a fact-specific, strategic approach grounded in a strong understanding of Florida alimony law and current statutory guidelines.
Modifying Spousal Support Orders
Whether an alimony award can be modified depends on the type of support involved. Under Florida law:
- Bridge-the-gap alimony cannot be modified
- Changes to the duration of durational alimony are allowed only in limited circumstances
- Other forms of alimony may be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances affecting need or ability to pay
Modifications may be handled by agreement or, if necessary, through a court hearing. We assist clients with pursuing, defending against, and negotiating alimony modifications when circumstances change.
Speak With a Miami Alimony Attorney
If you are facing questions about spousal support during or after a divorce, Allison Rub, P.A. is prepared to help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence. We focus on practical solutions that protect your financial well-being.
