As I mentioned in my last post on alimony, there are various types of alimony that can be paid in a divorce settlement.  Unless the case is resolved through mediation, the presiding judge will determine the type of alimony, if any.

There are six different types of alimony for those seeking a divorce in Florida.  Here they are with a brief explanation:

• Permanent alimony-it’s just what the name implies, an alimony payment that has no determined end point but is rather intended to be permanent.  This is usually awarded in a long-term marriage to the spouse who has not held an outside job.
• Rehabilitative alimony-once again the name gives a clue as to the type of alimony.  This is typically awarded in medium length marriages and short term marriages. Rehabilitative alimony may be awarded to assist a party in establishing the capacity for self-support through either: the redevelopment of previous skills or credentials; or the acquisition of education, training, or work experience necessary to develop appropriate employment skills or credentials.
• Durational alimony-is the most recent type of alimony to be added to the mix.  It is intended for a specific time period and is usually awarded to a spouse who was in a short or medium length marriage.  No durational plan is necessary (unlike rehabilitative alimony) and is intended as an “in-between” solution between permanent and rehabilitative alimony.
• Bridge-the-gap-again, you can probably guess what this is given the title.  This form of alimony is meant to help one spouse transition from married to single life and is to be no longer than 2 years in duration.
• Lump sum-this is a one-time payment or asset transfer.
• Temporary alimony-this is a form of alimony that covers one spouse during the divorce proceedings and is intended to cover the period from the divorce filing to the final judgment of dissolution of marriage.

It is imperative that the appropriate alimony it provided given your particular life circumstances.  A mistake here can have severe financial ramifications for your future and the future of your family.  Make sure to speak with an experienced Florida divorce attorney early on in your divorce case.