Pensacola Family Law Attorney Shares Changes to Florida's Alimony Law

Pensacola, Fla. – Recently, the Florida House of Representatives brought SB 1796 to the floor. In a 74-42 vote, the House passed the bill that would end permanent alimony in the state. Pensacola family law attorney, Craig A Vigodsky, is sharing what Florida residents can expect with the passage of the new bill.

Proposed by State Senator Joe Gruters, of Sarasota, and State Representative Jenna Persons-Mulicka, of District 78, the bill will bring an end to permanent alimony and redefine the payment structures based on the duration of the marriage. It states, "durational alimony may not exceed 50 percent of the length of a marriage lasting between three and ten years, 60 percent of the length of a marriage lasting between 10 and 20 years, or 75 percent of the length of a marriage lasting 20 years or longer." The bill would set a cap on the alimony payment amounts “determined to be the obligee’s reasonable need or an amount not to exceed 35 percent of the difference between the parties’ net incomes, whichever is less.”

Another part of the bill requires family law courts to begin with a “presumption” that in child custody disputes, the child should be presumed to split their time equally between parents. This portion of the bill has been one of contention in past attempts to reform Florida’s alimony laws. In 2016, former governor, Rick Scott, has twice vetoed previous legislation stating concerns that "the wants of a parent before the child's best interest by creating a premise of equal time-sharing," and that this decision should be left to the Judges.

Some groups, such as the Florida Family Fairness group, have lauded the bill for its “modern” approach to the use of alimony in divorce filings. Alternatively, the Family Law Section of The Florida Bar immediately requisitioned Governor Ron DeSantis to veto the bill. While SB 1796 remains in limbo, pending divorce and child custody actions are causing delays in the courts.

Craig A. Vigodsky, P.A. has almost 20 years of experience in family law in the state of Florida. He helps clients navigate the processes and procedures regarding divorce, child custody, and prenuptial agreements. For inquiries regarding family law or to receive help from an experienced family lawyer, contact Craig A. Vigodsky online today at www.pensacolalawoffice.com or call his law office at (850) 912-8520.