In an article published on 5/25, Rebecca Palmer and John Dorris discuss the effect of alimony reform on LGBTQ+ marriages. The Op-Ed focuses on the changes to the existing permanent alimony laws and how long-term marriage laws impact the issue. 

“The 2015 Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges brought legalized same-sex marriage nationwide… Anyone marrying that year or later would have a marriage of 7-8 years, not nearly long enough to qualify for permanent alimony in Florida” Rebecca and John write. “Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Vermont were early states to recognize same-sex marriage while the Netherlands, Belgium, Canada, Spain, and South Africa were the first countries to legalize them. Couples marrying near the time those jurisdictions initially recognized same-sex marriage would be entering what Florida law classifies as a long-term marriage, meaning they are currently eligible for permanent alimony under existing law. Law that is likely going to change July 1.”

Rebecca and John emphasize that same-sex couples in Florida should understand the implications of alimony reform on their marriage. Further, they advise that it is important that same-sex couples understand the laws surrounding their marriage and whether their marriage is classified as short, medium, or long-term under state law.

Read the full story here (subscription-based)