New Jersey Alimony Lawyer

At Putterman Legal, our Atlantic County alimony attorney is a skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced advocate for clients. We provide comprehensive family and divorce representation. Our team handles all aspects of spousal support cases. If you are involved in an alimony case, we are here to help. Contact us today for a fully confidential consultation with a top New Jersey spousal support attorney.

Alimony in New Jersey

Alimony, commonly known as spousal support, is a fundamental aspect of divorce and family law in New Jersey. This form of financial support is designed to help one spouse maintain a standard of living comparable to what was established during the marriage, especially when there is a significant difference in earning capacities between the parties. In New Jersey, alimony is not automatically granted in every divorce; instead, it is determined on a case by case basis, taking into account the unique circumstances of each marriage. Factors such as the length of the marriage, the financial independence of each spouse, and the overall financial situation of the parties play a crucial role in whether an alimony award is appropriate. Family law attorneys are essential advocates in these matters, helping clients understand their rights and obligations regarding jersey alimony and ensuring that any spousal support arrangement is fair and sustainable. Whether you are seeking or contesting alimony, having experienced legal guidance can make a significant difference in protecting your financial future.

There are Several Types of Alimony in New Jersey

Alimony (spousal support or spousal maintenance) is a payment from one spouse to another that is made during or, more often, after a divorce. It is a form of money paid as financial support to ensure that the financially disadvantaged party is adequately protected. In New Jersey, there are actually several different types of alimony that can be awarded. These types of alimony are important considerations in a New Jersey divorce, as local law determines how each type is applied and awarded. Here is an overview:

• Temporary Alimony: Temporary alimony is paid during the divorce process to maintain the status quo until final settlement or trial. It may be required by a temporary court order.
• Open Durational Alimony: Similar to permanent alimony, open durational alimony can be awarded in long-term marriages or where permanent financial dependency exists.
• Limited Duration Alimony: For shorter-term marriages, limited duration alimony typically lasts no more than the length of the marriage. It is designed to be transitional.
• Rehabilitative Alimony: Rehabilitative alimony helps a spouse complete education or job training; it is awarded for a specific period supported by a clear plan and timeline. This type of alimony is specifically designed to help a spouse re-enter the job market by supporting education or training expenses, making it possible for them to re-enter the workforce.
• Reimbursement Alimony: Reimbursement alimony compensates a spouse for financial sacrifices made during the marriage. This type of alimony is awarded when one spouse helped pay for the other’s education or supported them financially during that period.

What to Know About the New Jersey Alimony Laws

New Jersey’s alimony laws reformed in 2014. They make it clear that no type of alimony is guaranteed in any specific divorce case. Instead, the majority of divorces in our state are finalized without any spousal support being awarded at all. Still, alimony can (and is) granted in plenty of cases. If (and how much) alimony will be awarded is based on a wide range of different factors. In New Jersey, alimony decisions are not strictly governed by statutory formulas or case law, and there are no set guidelines for calculating alimony. Here is an overview of some of the key statutory alimony factors in New Jersey:

In New Jersey, the statutory factors for determining alimony are outlined in N.J.S.A. 2A:34-23. The court considers the following factors:

1. Age and Physical Condition: The age and health of both parties.
2. Employment: The income and property of both parties, and their ability to earn income.
3. Duration of Marriage: The length of the marriage or civil union.
4. Standard of Living: The standard of living established during the marriage.
5. Needs: The needs of each party, including any dependent children.
6. Marital Contributions: The contributions made by each party to the marriage, including homemaking and child care.
7. Role during Marriage: The role of each party in the marriage and their responsibilities.
8. Tax Consequences: The tax implications of alimony for both parties.
9. Other Factors: Any other factors the court deems relevant to the case.

The length of the marriage is just one factor among many that the court considers when determining alimony. These factors help the court to determine whether alimony should be awarded and, if so, the amount and duration of the alimony.

Notably, there is a rebuttable presumption that alimony ends when the payor reaches full retirement age. Further, cohabitation or remarriage by the recipient, disability, or retirement may also modify or terminate alimony. However, exceptional circumstances, such as chronic illness or primary caregiving responsibilities, may justify deviations from standard duration limits. The process of paying and paying alimony is overseen by the court, which ensures compliance with its orders.

A spouse may receive alimony if the court finds that the circumstances warrant support, based on the statutory factors and the financial situations of both parties.

Calculating Alimony Payments

Calculating alimony payments in New Jersey requires an intricate analysis of many factors, as there is no set formula or strict guidelines like those used for child support. Instead, Jersey courts evaluate each case individually, considering the financial circumstances of both spouses, the length of the marriage, and the standard of living established during the relationship. Other important factors include investment income, living expenses, and the division of marital property. In some situations, the court may order temporary support, known as pendente lite support, to help one spouse manage living costs while the divorce is pending. Because the process of determining alimony can be complex and fact-sensitive, it is crucial to work with a knowledgeable alimony lawyer who can help ensure that all relevant factors are considered and that the resulting alimony payments are fair and appropriate for your situation.

Enforcement and Modification of Alimony Orders

Enforcement and modification of alimony orders in New Jersey can present unique challenges for both parties. If one spouse fails to pay alimony as ordered, the other spouse has the right to seek enforcement through the court system. Jersey courts have the authority to impose penalties or sanctions to ensure compliance with alimony obligations. Additionally, if there is a significant change in circumstances—such as a substantial change in income, loss of employment, or a shift in financial independence—either party may request a modification of the existing alimony order. The court will carefully review the new circumstances to determine if an adjustment is warranted. Working with an experienced New Jersey alimony lawyer is essential to effectively navigate the enforcement or modification process, protect your rights, and ensure that any changes to alimony reflect your current financial reality.

How New Jersey Spousal Support Lawyer Bonnie Putterman Can Help

New Jersey’s alimony laws are notoriously complex. Because of the many factors courts consider and the intricacies involved, it is crucial to consult with an experienced attorney who can guide you through the process. If you have a lot of questions about your rights and your options, you are certainly not alone. New Jersey family lawyer is standing by, ready to review your case and help you determine the best course of action. Our client testimonials show what we can do in family law proceedings. We are proactive and focused on solutions. Alimony is often a hotly contested issue in many divorce cases. Along with other things, our Atlantic County alimony lawyer is ready to:

• Hear your story and answer your most pressing questions;
• Gathering all supporting financial documents and records;
• Represent you in any settlement negotiations with your former spouse; and
• Take legal action to protect your legal rights and your financial interests. 

Alimony in New Jersey: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Contact Our Atlantic County, Cape May County, & Cumberland County Alimony Attorneys Today

If you are facing a divorce or separation in Atlantic County, Cape May County, or Cumberland County, it is vital to have experienced family law attorneys on your side to guide you through the complexities of alimony in New Jersey. Our team has extensive experience handling all aspects of spousal support, from calculating alimony payments and advocating for fair support arrangements to enforcing and modifying existing orders in court. We understand the financial and emotional challenges that come with divorce, and we are committed to providing personalized legal advice and representation tailored to your unique needs. Whether you are seeking alimony, contesting an award, or need help with enforcement, we are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you protect your financial interests and secure the support you deserve under New Jersey law.