Galloway Township Spousal Support Attorney

At Putterman Legal, our Galloway Township spousal support lawyer has the knowledge and experience that you can rely on. We are committed to protecting the legal rights and financial interests of our clients. If you have any questions or concerns about spousal support, we are here to help. Contact our Galloway Township lawyer today for a fully confidential, no-obligation case review.

Our family law attorneys serve clients throughout Galloway Township, Atlantic County, and surrounding communities in New Jersey, offering committed representation across all aspects of divorce and alimony law.

An Overview of Spousal Support Laws in New Jersey

In New Jersey, spousal support (alimony) is governed by N.J.S.A. 2A:34-23. In determining whether any payment is required, courts review the financial need and ability to pay of each spouse. Among other things, they can examine marital duration, earning capacity, childcare demands, education levels, the marital lifestyle, tax considerations, and the time needed for rehabilitation of income. To be clear, no single factor controls. The totality of the circumstances matters.

New Jersey recognizes several types of spousal support. To start, open durational alimony is possible for long marriages. The state also allows limited-duration alimony for shorter marriages. Beyond that, rehabilitative alimony may be possible when the supported spouse needs time and training to regain earning capacity, and reimbursement alimony may be approved to compensate a spouse who paid for the other’s advanced education.

New Jersey law does not use a mandatory formula to determine alimony amounts, which means courts rely entirely on the specific financial circumstances of both parties and the history of the marriage to reach a fair outcome.

Types of Alimony in New Jersey

Open durational alimony has no fixed end date and is generally awarded when a marriage lasted 20 years or more, reflecting the long-term financial interdependence the parties built together.

Limited duration alimony applies to marriages under 20 years and ends after a defined period set by the court based on the specific circumstances of the divorce, giving one spouse time to adjust without creating a permanent obligation.

Rehabilitative alimony supports a spouse who needs time and education to re-enter the workforce, while reimbursement alimony compensates a spouse for financial contributions made to the other party’s professional advancement during the marriage.

Spousal Support, Children, and Your Family’s Future

Family law cases involving alimony frequently intersect with child support and custody matters, and New Jersey courts consider the full financial picture of both parties when addressing all family obligations at once.

When one spouse served as the primary caregiver during the marriage, their reduced employment history and earning capacity are factors courts weigh carefully in determining the amount and duration of spousal support.

Domestic violence within a marriage can also affect alimony decisions in New Jersey courts, since a history of abuse may influence how a judge evaluates one spouse’s ability to become financially self-sufficient after divorce.

How Our Galloway Township Spousal Support Attorney Can Help

Going through a divorce is complicated; spousal support is just one of many issues that may need to be addressed. Our founder, Bonnie Putterman, is a New Jersey family law lawyer with extensive experience. With a history of client testimonials, we are committed to proactive, personalized legal representation. Along with other things, our Galloway Township spousal support lawyer will: 

• Conduct a comprehensive, confidential evaluation of your case;
• Gather and prepare all of the supporting documentation you need; 
• Handle any settlement negotiations with your former spouse; and
• Develop a personalized strategy focused on getting the best outcome.

Our family law attorneys also assist clients with property division, child support, and custody matters, giving families in Galloway Township complete legal support across all aspects of their divorce case.

Many spousal support disputes in New Jersey are resolved through negotiation or mediation rather than litigation, and our committed attorneys guide clients through both options so they can make decisions that protect their family’s financial future.

Spousal Support: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is alimony supposed to do in New Jersey?

Alimony helps spouses stay financially stable after a divorce. It keeps one spouse from falling into hardship if there is a large income gap. The support can give the lower-earning spouse time to rebuild and become more self-supporting.

Can alimony be modified in New Jersey?

Yes. Though a modification will not be automatically approved. It requires a showing of a substantial, permanent change in circumstances. The party seeking the change carries the burden of proof. The court reviews updated financial records along with other evidence.

How does cohabitation affect alimony under New Jersey law?

Cohabitation will result in a statutory inquiry into financial interdependence, shared duties, and stability of the relationship. The supported spouse may face suspension or termination of alimony. However, unlike a remarriage by the supported spouse, it is not automatic grounds for termination.

What is the difference between open durational and limited duration alimony?

Open durational alimony has no set end date and is awarded in longer marriages, while limited duration alimony applies to marriages under 20 years and ends after a specific period determined by the court. The length of the marriage and each party’s financial circumstances are central to how New Jersey courts decide between these two types of support. A Galloway Township family law attorney can help you understand which type of alimony applies in your case and what you can reasonably expect from the courts.

Can I request temporary spousal support while my divorce is pending?

Yes. New Jersey courts can order temporary support while a divorce case is still pending, helping the lower-earning spouse cover living expenses and attorney fees before a final alimony award is made. Temporary support does not automatically determine the final outcome, but it provides important financial stability during what can be a lengthy process. A family law lawyer in Galloway Township can request temporary support on your behalf and represent your interests at any related court hearing.

How do New Jersey courts determine how much spousal support to pay?

New Jersey law does not provide a fixed calculator for alimony, so the amount ordered depends entirely on the circumstances of each divorce case and the financial situation of both parties. Courts examine each spouse’s income, the length of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, taxes, employment history, and whether one spouse gave up career opportunities to support the family or care for children. Working with an experienced Galloway Township family law attorney helps ensure all relevant factors are presented clearly so the court can reach a fair and accurate determination.

Contact Our Galloway Township Alimony Lawyer Today

At Putterman Legal, our Galloway Township spousal support attorney is standing by, ready to help you find the best path forward. If you have any questions about alimony, we are more than ready to help. Call us now at (609) 625-8383 or contact us online to set up your completely confidential consultation. We provide family law representation in Galloway Township and throughout Atlantic County.

Our NJ law firm also offers a free consultation so new clients can discuss their concerns with a committed Galloway Township family law attorney before making any decisions about their case.