Michele A. Lebron | April 7, 2025 | Alimony
The term “palimony” is commonly associated with financial support that one partner may be entitled to receive following the dissolution of a non-marital relationship. Florida does not have a law specifically for ‘palimony’ — the financial support often associated with post-separation obligations between unmarried partners.
Instead, Florida uses contract law to recognize support agreements, which may function similarly to palimony but must be based on mutually agreed-upon terms, whether express or implied by the actions of the parties involved.
Palimony is a form of financial support awarded to one partner following the breakup of a long-term cohabiting relationship. It is like alimony, but palimony only applies to unmarried couples who have lived together in a committed relationship.
While Florida does not have a specific law for palimony, it is often treated as a form of contractual obligation. In many cases, a support agreement (that functions like a palimony agreement) is based on a verbal or written agreement during and after a relationship, which outlines the partners’ financial obligations to each other.
Is Palimony Recognized Under Florida Law?
Florida does not have a specific statute or legal framework that grants support to individuals after a relationship ends. However, this does not mean that support agreements following a breakup are impossible to pursue in Florida. If certain conditions are met, the courts may enforce these agreements as long as they are based on clear and mutually agreed-upon terms.
For example, if one partner has supported the other financially for a significant amount of time and has an agreement in place, the court might recognize this as an enforceable contract. This could be through an express agreement (written or verbal) or an implied agreement based on the understanding of both parties.
It’s important to note that palimony is not a guaranteed right like alimony. To succeed in seeking palimony, one would need to provide substantial evidence that an agreement existed. They would also need to prove that they provided a legitimate service or contributed to the relationship.
How to Prove a Support Agreement Claim in Florida
If you believe you are entitled to support following a separation from your partner with whom you had been cohabitating in Florida, you must provide evidence of the financial support agreement. You must also show your contribution to the relationship. Here’s what you should gather:
- Written Agreements: any written contracts, documents, or letters that indicate a promise of financial support after separation
- Witness Testimony: statements from friends, family, or other individuals who are aware of the terms of the relationship and can verify any promises made by one partner to provide support
- Evidence of Financial Dependence: records that show one partner was financially dependent on the other during the relationship
- Contributions to the Household: proof of contributions made to the relationship, like managing the household, taking care of children, or providing other services
The court will take all the evidence into consideration when sorting out a support agreement.
Can a Support Agreement Be Enforced After Separation?
In Florida, enforcing a support agreement after separation can be challenging. It is extremely difficult if there is no written contract. However, family law courts can sometimes enforce informal agreements when there is clear evidence that the partner promised support.
It’s important to work with an experienced family law attorney who understands how to navigate these complex cases. Your attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence to support your claim for support.
Contact the Kissimmee Divorce Lawyers at Lebron Law, PLLC for Help Today With Your Family Law Case
For more information, contact our experienced Kissimmee family law & divorce attorneys at Lebron Law, PLLC by calling (321) 800-5195 to schedule a free consultation.
We serve all through Osceola County and its surrounding areas in Florida. Visit our office at:
Lebron Law, PLLC
15 S Orlando Ave, Kissimmee, FL 34741
(321) 800-5195
