Quick answer: Temporary relief, also called pendente lite relief, is a set of short-term court orders that manage custody, child support, spousal maintenance, and bills while a divorce case is pending. These orders give families financial stability and clear custody arrangements until a judge issues a final divorce judgment.
Divorce proceedings rarely wrap up quickly. In Florida, a case can take months or even years to resolve, depending on how many issues the spouses disagree on. During that waiting period, families still need to pay rent, cover groceries, and give their children a predictable routine.
That is where temporary relief comes in. Also known as pendente lite relief, it provides short-term court orders that address urgent needs while the divorce is still in progress. Below, C. Alvarez Law explains what temporary relief covers, how the process works, and how long these orders last.
What Does Temporary Relief Cover During Divorce Proceedings?
Temporary relief can address several areas of family and financial life at once. Here are the four most common.
1. Child Custody and Parenting Time
Temporary relief establishes a stable schedule for where children live and when each parent has visits. This gives children a sense of certainty during a difficult transitional period, and it helps both parents plan their daily lives with fewer disputes.
2. Financial Support
The court can order temporary child support to help a lower-earning spouse cover daily living expenses. In some cases, it may also grant temporary spousal maintenance. These orders make sure bills and basic needs are met while the divorce case is pending.
3. Property and Bills
Temporary relief decides who stays in the marital home during proceedings and who uses shared vehicles and other property. It also allocates responsibility for specific household debts and expenses, so neither spouse is left guessing about who pays what.
4. Asset Protection
To protect financial stability for both parties, temporary relief can prohibit both spouses from selling, hiding, or transferring marital assets. It can also prevent changes to insurance coverage that could harm the other spouse or the children.
How Does the Temporary Relief Process Work?
Requesting temporary relief during divorce proceedings generally involves several steps. The exact process can vary depending on the type of relief requested and the circumstances of the case.
Step One: Requesting Temporary Relief
One spouse asks the court for temporary relief while the divorce case is pending. The request should explain what temporary orders are needed, such as child support, temporary alimony, time-sharing arrangements, or help with certain household expenses.
Step Two: Providing Financial Information
When financial relief is requested, the parties may need to provide information about their income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. Documents such as financial affidavits, pay stubs, tax returns, and bank records can help the court understand each party’s financial circumstances.
Step Three: Attending a Hearing
If the spouses cannot agree on temporary arrangements, the court may hold a hearing. Each party can present relevant information and evidence, and the judge will determine what temporary relief is appropriate based on the circumstances.
How Long Does Temporary Relief Last?
Temporary orders generally remain in effect while the divorce case is pending, unless they are modified or replaced by another court order. Once the divorce is finalized, the final judgment establishes the parties’ ongoing rights and responsibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difference Between Temporary Relief and a Final Divorce Judgment?
Temporary relief covers short-term needs, such as support and custody, only while the divorce is pending. A final divorce judgment resolves all issues permanently once the case concludes. Temporary orders end when the final judgment takes effect.
How Quickly Can I Get Temporary Relief in Florida?
Timing depends on the court’s schedule and how complete your financial documents are. Filing a well-supported motion with accurate affidavits and proof of income can help move your request along faster.
Can Temporary Relief Orders Be Changed?
Yes. Either spouse can request a modification if circumstances change significantly during the divorce process, such as a job loss or a major shift in income.
Who Should Ask for Temporary Relief?
A spouse who needs immediate financial support, a stable custody schedule, or protection of shared assets should consider requesting temporary relief. It is especially helpful for lower-earning spouses and parents of young children.
Protect Your Family During Divorce Proceedings
Temporary relief can be the difference between months of uncertainty and a stable, predictable routine while your divorce moves forward. Understanding your options early puts you in a stronger position to protect your children, your finances, and your future.
If you are going through a divorce in Florida and need temporary relief, the family law attorneys at C. Alvarez Law are ready to help. Contact us today to discuss your custody, support, and asset protection needs. Our team will guide you through the temporary relief process and protect your family’s interests.
Christina C. Alvarez
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- What to Know About Temporary Relief During Divorce Proceedings - September 14, 2026
