Cape May Spousal Support Attorney

At Putterman Legal, our Cape May spousal support lawyer provides solutions-focused legal guidance and support to clients. For more than 30 years, we have helped people solve real problems in the most sensitive, cost-effective manner. Our team knows family and divorce cases. If you are trying to discuss an issue related to spousal support, we have the knowledge and experience you can trust. Contact our Cape May spousal support attorney today for a confidential consultation.

Our law office understands that every family has a story. We take the time to listen to your concerns so we can provide the right counsel for your situation. Whether you are at the beginning of your New Jersey divorce or looking to change an old order, our lawyers are here to assist you. We make it our commitment to help you reach a fair outcome without unnecessary litigation.

Helping You With Family Law Matters

When you are experiencing a family law issue, it can feel like your whole life is changing. Our law office works hard to protect your interests and your future. We handle many types of legal matters in Cape May County and the surrounding areas. Whether you need help with personal injury, criminal defense, or child support, our lawyers are ready to help.

Navigating the courthouse can be scary if you are alone. We help residents by explaining how New Jersey law works in plain English. Our practice covers everything from domestic violence protection to complex business valuations during a split. We want to make the process as smooth as possible for you and your children.

What to Know About Spousal Support in Cape May, New Jersey

N.J.S.A. 2A:34-23 is New Jersey’s spousal support statute. When a New Jersey couple divorces and one spouse earns substantially more than the other or otherwise has a far more favorable financial position, the court may require support payments (alimony). Though, to be clear, spousal support is only awarded in a minority of divorce cases. Factors considered in spousal support cases include: 

• How long the marriage lasted; 
• Each spouse’s ability to earn income; 
• Each spouse’s current and likely health; and 
• The lifestyle established during the marriage. 

In New Jersey, spousal support for short marriages is often limited in duration. Indeed, the award may run no longer than the marriage unless something unusual happens. However, if a marriage lasted twenty years or more, the court might award open-duration alimony that ends only when a triggering event happens (death, remarriage, retirement of the payor) unless the court finds good cause otherwise. 

Managing Marital Assets and Finances

In Cape May, a divorce involves more than just ending a marriage. It also means splitting up marital assets like your home, bank accounts, and retirement funds. Our dedicated Cape May family law attorneys can help you focus on a fair division of property. We understand that you worked hard for what you have, and we want to help you keep what is yours.

While some cases go to trial, many people find success through mediation. This allows you and your former spouse to talk through issues with a neutral person. This often saves time and money compared to a long court battle. Our goal is to find a path that protects your financial interests so you can start your new life with confidence.

How Our Cape May Family Lawyer Can Help 

Spousal support cases are complicated and often emotional. It is normal to have a lot of questions about your rights and legal options. Bonnie Putterman is a top-rated family lawyer who has spent years serving clients in this city. Whether you may pay or receive alimony, our team can help you understand what to expect from the judges in our county.

We encourage you to review our client testimonials and reach out to our office directly. We take pride in being family law attorneys who care about the people we represent. From the first time we discuss your case, you will see that we are focused on your future. We provide the steady counsel you need during a high-stress time.

Protecting the Rights of Your Children

The well-being of children is the most important part of any family law case. We work with parents to create parenting time schedules that actually work for their busy lives. Issues like child custody and child support require a gentle touch but a firm understanding of the law. We want to make sure your kids are taken care of long after the divorce is final.

When family law matters involve kids, the court always looks at what is best for the child. This might involve looking at school districts, medical needs, and the bond with each parent. Our lawyers have the knowledge to help you present your case clearly. We fight to make sure your children have the stability and resources they need to grow up happy.

Spousal Support in Cape May: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is spousal support automatic after divorce in New Jersey?

No. In fact, in most cases, it is not awarded. In New Jersey, a court reviews financial information before deciding if support is necessary. Every family situation is different, and the law requires a close look at everyone’s income and debts.

How long does spousal support last in New Jersey?

It depends. The duration of spousal support in New Jersey will vary based on several factors. The most important thing is how long the marriage lasted. For marriages under twenty years in Cape May, alimony usually cannot exceed the marriage’s length.

Can spousal support be changed or even stopped?

Yes. Absolutely. While an existing alimony order/agreement will be assumed to be appropriate. Either spouse can ask the court to modify or terminate support if circumstances change, such as retirement, job loss, or remarriage of the receiving spouse.

How is child custody decided?

When it comes to child custody, the court looks at the best interests of the children. This includes parenting time schedules and where the children will live most of the time. A judge wants to make sure both parents can stay involved in the lives of their children when it is safe to do so.

What is the difference between alimony and child support?

Alimony is money paid to a former spouse to help them stay at a certain standard of living. Child support is money meant specifically for the care of the children, like food, clothes, and school. Both are important family law matters that must be filed at the courthouse.

How does the courthouse divide property?

In Cape May County, the law uses “equitable distribution.” This means property is divided fairly, but not always exactly 50/50. Judges look at what each person brought to the marriage and what they will need to live in the future.

Can I get help for domestic violence during a divorce?

Yes. If you are dealing with domestic violence, you can seek a restraining order through the court. This is a serious criminal and family matter. Our lawyers can help you find safety and legal protection for you and your children.

What happens if a parent does not follow parenting time?

If a parent does not follow the child custody or parenting time order, you may need to go back to court. A family lawyer can help you file papers to make sure the other person follows the law.

Can alimony orders be changed later?

Yes. Either spouse can ask to change support if life changes. This might happen because of employment loss, a new business start, or retirement. You must show the court that the change is permanent and significant.

Speak to Our Cape May, NJ Spousal Support Lawyer Today

At Putterman Legal, our Cape May spousal support lawyer has more than 30 years of experience. If you have concerns about alimony, we can help. Call us now at (609) 625-8383 or contact us online to set up your appointment. We handle divorce and family cases in Cape May County and throughout all of New Jersey.

Our practice is built on helping residents find peace of mind during difficult transitions. We are ready to assist you with any family law issue you might face. Reach out to our office today to see how our dedicated Cape May team can help you move forward.