Sometimes, one spouse is entirely dependent on the other. This could be because the spouse is a homemaker or has, until the divorce, been provided for by the other spouse. In cases such as these, the state orders something called “bridge-the-gap” alimony.
What Does Bridge-the-Gap Alimony Do?
This type of alimony is designed to create short-term support for a spouse to re-enter the job market and to transition from married to single life. Florida State Statutes 61.08 define bridge-the-gap alimony as follows:
Florida State Statutes § 61.08
Bridge-the-gap alimony may be awarded to provide support to a party in making the transition from being married to being single. Bridge-the-gap alimony assists a party with legitimate identifiable short-term needs. The length of an award of bridge-the-gap alimony may not exceed 2 years. An award of bridge-the-gap alimony terminates upon the death of either party or upon the remarriage of the obligee. An award of bridge-the-gap alimony is not modifiable in amount or duration.
There are a few key takeaways from the state statute:
- Alimony lasts for a maximum of 2 years
- Unlike traditional alimony agreements, bridge-the-gap alimony agreements are fixed, meaning they cannot be changed once set
- The alimony agreement may terminate early if:
- One party dies
- One party remarries
Bridge-the-gap alimony is only meant as a short solution to help transition one spouse back to single life. For this reason, the agreement is non-modifiable, and can terminate early. Bridge the gap alimony can also be awarded in cases where one spouse retains control of a house while the other is forced to find new housing. This type of alimony can also be awarded to pay for training or education that may be required to re-enter the workforce.
When is Someone not Eligible for Bridge the Gap Alimony?
Because this type of alimony is reserved for cases in which one party would suffer greatly after no longer being supported by their spouse, bridge the gap alimony is not available when one or both spouses have enough money to live independently. There may be extenuating circumstances, but typically, this alimony is not awarded when both spouses are working.
If a spouse would need to hire a caretaker while he or she worked, then a different type of alimony would be required, not bridge the gap.
Attorney for Alimony Awards in Broward County, FL
Understanding what one may be entitled to in alimony after a divorce is invaluable the individual is attempting to maintain a lifestyle accustomed to or if he or she is attempting to acquire more skills for job opportunities. Having an experienced attorney to help you understand alimony will be invaluable.
The Lawyers of Bacchus Law Firm are experienced family law professionals dedicated to getting families the closure that they need during hard times. Having provided counsel to numerous clients throughout the Greater Miami-metropolitan area, we take cases in Miami-Dade County, Palm Beach County, Broward County, and Collier County.
Our office is conveniently located at 401 E. Las Olas Blvd. in Ft. Lauderdale, just minutes from Broward County Central Courthouse and we have taken cases in Miami, West Palm Beach, LaBelle, and East Naples, Florida.
Contact our office at (954) 500-5555 for a consultation.
