If you are someone who is going through the divorce process, or are about to, you are most likely very concerned about whether you will have to pay, or may receive, alimony. Please continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable Bergen County family law attorneys to learn more about alimony in New Jersey and how our firm can help you through the legal process going forward. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the different types of alimony available in New Jersey?
There are four primary types of alimony awarded to individuals in New Jersey, though the amount of alimony you receive largely depends on the duration of your marriage. The different types of alimony in New Jersey are as follows:
- Open durational alimony: This type of alimony is primarily awarded to spouses who have been married for over 20 years. Though open durational alimony is not permanent, it is granted to dependent spouses for an indeterminate period of time. However, if that spouse remarries, gets a higher-paying job, or can otherwise support him or herself, he or she will most likely no longer receive alimony payments.
- Limited duration alimony: This is granted to financially dependent spouses who have been married for less than 20 years. The alimony is only awarded for a predetermined period of time.
- Reimbursement alimony: If your spouse stopped working to pursue further education before a divorce and you supported the both of you, you may qualify for reimbursement alimony.
- Rehabilitative alimony: Spouses who forego their career goals to benefit the career of their spouse before a divorce will sometimes qualify for rehabilitative alimony. This type of alimony generally goes towards any reeducation or retraining that may be necessary so they can pick up where they left off.
What additional factors do courts consider when determining alimony in New Jersey?
While the duration of your marriage is a huge factor when it comes to deciding on alimony, New Jersey courts will also consider several additional factors, including:
- You and your spouse’s age
- You and your spouse’s health
- You and your spouse’s earning potential
- You and your spouse’s yearly income
- Your child custody/support agreement
- Any other factor the court deems relevant
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NEW JERSEY FIRM
Here at McNerney & McAuliffe, we understand how confusing certain legal matters can be, which is why we are here to provide clients from all walks of life with the experienced, compassionate legal guidance they need. If you require the legal assistance of an attorney to help you through a criminal law matter, personal injury matter, family law matter, or otherwise, you can turn to us. Contact McNerney & McAuliffe today to learn more about what we can do for you.
