Bradenton Family LawAlimony

Alimony Attorney in Bradenton
Navigating the complexities of alimony in Florida can be challenging, especially with recent legal changes affecting spousal support. If you’re going through a divorce in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, or Sarasota, understanding how these updates impact your case is essential. At McNary Powers, we provide dedicated legal representation to ensure that our clients receive fair treatment in alimony cases. This guide covers the types of alimony, factors courts consider, and how modifications or terminations may apply to your situation.
What Is Alimony?
Alimony, also known as spousal support, is financial assistance that one spouse may be required to pay the other after a divorce. The purpose is to help the recipient maintain economic stability, mainly if they were financially dependent on their spouse during the marriage.
Types of Alimony in Florida
Florida law recognizes three primary types of alimony:
- Bridge-the-Gap Alimony
- Purpose: Helps the recipient transition from married to single life by covering short-term needs.
- Duration: Cannot exceed two years.
- Modifications: Not modifiable in amount or duration.
- Termination: Ends upon death or remarriage of the recipient.
- Rehabilitative Alimony
- Purpose: Provides financial assistance while the recipient pursues education, job training, or work experience.
- Requirement: A specific rehabilitation plan must be presented.
- Duration: Cannot exceed five years.
- Modifications: Can be modified or terminated if:
- The recipient completes the plan early.
- Circumstances change significantly.
- The recipient fails to comply with the plan.
- Durational Alimony
- Purpose: Provides financial assistance for a defined period following a short- or moderate-term marriage.
- Duration Limits:
- Short-term marriage (under 10 years): Alimony cannot exceed 50% of the marriage length.
- Moderate-term marriage (10–20 years): Alimony cannot exceed 60% of the marriage length.
- Long-term marriage (20+ years): Alimony cannot exceed 75% of the marriage length.
- Modifications: The amount may be adjusted based on substantial changes in circumstances, but the duration cannot exceed the set limits unless the court finds exceptional circumstances.
Factors Florida Courts Consider in Alimony Cases
When determining whether to award alimony, courts evaluate multiple factors, including:
- Length of the Marriage – The longer the marriage, the more likely alimony will be awarded.
- Standard of Living – Courts aim to ensure the recipient maintains a reasonable post-divorce lifestyle.
- Financial Resources & Income of Each Spouse – Includes both marital and nonmarital assets.
- Earning Capacities – Employment history, education, and potential future earnings.
- Health & Age – Whether either spouse has physical or mental conditions that affect employability.
- Contributions to the Marriage – Includes financial support, homemaking, and child-rearing.
- Parental Responsibilities – Whether one spouse primarily cares for minor children.
- Tax Consequences – Courts consider how alimony affects both parties’ financial situations.
- Any Other Equitable Factors – The court has discretion to weigh unique circumstances.
Retirement and Alimony
Courts can reduce or terminate alimony when the paying spouse reaches retirement age. To seek modification:
- The paying spouse must prove that retirement impacts their ability to continue making payments.
- The recipient can challenge the request by proving that financial support remains necessary.
- Key factors courts evaluate:
- Age and health of both spouses.
- The paying spouse’s retirement income.
- The financial situation of both parties.
Supportive Relationships and Alimony Termination
If the recipient enters a supportive relationship (financially dependent on a new partner), the paying spouse can request a reduction or termination of alimony. Courts assess:
- Cohabitation – Whether the recipient lives with a new partner long-term.
- Shared Finances – Whether they combine income or pay joint expenses.
- Public Representation – If they present themselves as a couple.
- Financial Contributions – Whether one party is financially supporting the other.
If a supportive relationship is established, alimony may be reduced or eliminated.
How McNary Powers Can Help With Your Alimony Case
At McNary Powers, we specialize in helping individuals in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and Sarasota with alimony cases, offering compassionate legal advocacy. Our family law services include:
- Divorce Representation (contested and uncontested)
- Alimony Modification & Termination
- Child Custody & Support
- Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements
- Mediation & Collaborative Divorce
Whether you are seeking alimony or defending against an unfair request, we are committed to protecting your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alimony in Florida
Can Alimony Be Modified?
Yes, alimony can be increased, reduced, or terminated if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as:
- Job loss or financial hardship.
- Retirement of the paying spouse.
- The recipient becoming self-sufficient.
- The recipient entering a supportive relationship.
Can Alimony Be Waived?
Yes, alimony can be waived through a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement.
Does Adultery Affect Alimony?
Yes, courts may consider adultery and any resulting financial impact when determining alimony.
What Happens If Alimony Payments Are Not Made?
If the paying spouse fails to comply, courts can enforce alimony through:
- Wage garnishment
- Bank account levies
- Property liens
- Contempt of court proceedings
Final Thoughts
Florida’s updated alimony laws emphasize temporary support rather than long-term financial dependency. Having a knowledgeable attorney is essential if you’re facing a divorce or alimony dispute in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, or Sarasota.
At McNary Powers, we uphold honesty, integrity, and compassionate advocacy, ensuring that you receive fair treatment in your case.
Contact Us Today
Schedule a consultation at (941) 345-1662 today if you need an alimony attorney who will fight for your financial stability.


