An Alimony Lawyer Can Help You Get Back on Your Feet
Oftentimes, during and after a divorce, one spouse is financially dependent on the other. Alimony, or spousal support, in New Jersey can also be paid during or after civil unions or same-sex marriages are ended. Alimony ensures the financially dependent spouse can lead a similar lifestyle to the one they led during the marriage – that is, at least until they become financially independent. Divorces are emotionally taxing and high-stakes, so you deserve a knowledgeable and compassionate alimony lawyer on your side. With offices in Hoboken, NJ, and surrounding areas, Dunne, Dunne & Cohen, LLC, serves clients throughout the state. F.R. "Chip" Dunne, III, Leonard B. Cohen, and Frederick R. Dunne, Jr., work closely with each client to meet their unique needs and provide guidance during this difficult time.
An Overview of Alimony
In some marriages, both spouses earn a similar income, while in others, one spouse earns most or all of the income. This means that one spouse can be especially vulnerable in the event of a divorce. Alimony is designed to make certain a spouse with a lower earning potential and less access to resources can maintain a certain standard of living.
Types of Alimony in New Jersey
There are four types of alimony in the Garden State: open durational, limited duration, rehabilitative, and reimbursement. The court can award any combination of these orders.
- Open Durational: Previously known as permanent alimony, this may be appropriate if you sacrificed your career or educational opportunities in order for your spouse to advance theirs, or to care for your family.
- Limited Duration Alimony: Otherwise termed durational or term alimony, you may receive alimony until you become self-supporting.
If you are facing or going through a divorce, do not hesitate to reach out to us. We work closely with each client to meet their unique needs.
- Rehabilitative Alimony: Rehabilitative alimony is designed to help the lower earner receive training and education to help them become financially independent. Classes, training courses, and the cost of living may be covered during this time.
- Reimbursement Alimony: If you supported your spouse through advanced education but did not reap the benefits due to divorce, you may be compensated.
Factors Affecting Your Outcome
To determine alimony, the court will consider several criteria. Factors that may ultimately affect the outcome include:
- The needs of the requesting spouse and the other spouse’s ability to pay
- Each spouse’s income and earning capacity, employability, and education level
- The duration of the marriage
- The physical and emotional health of each spouse
- Financial and non-financial contributions to the marriage made by each spouse
- Standard of living during the marriage
- Division of parental responsibilities
- How long it will take the dependent spouse to obtain the training or education needed to become financially independent
Modifications
Sometimes circumstances change, and a judge can modify limited duration and rehabilitative alimony orders if they do. For example, if the spouse receiving alimony payments is unable to find a job or obtain the necessary skills or education to become financially self-sufficient within the originally designated time period, that time period can be extended. Also, if the recipient gets remarried, the other spouse must be informed of the change and payments can be stopped.
Contact Our Firm Today
If you are facing or going through a divorce, you need an attorney who will put your best interests first. If you are financially dependent on your spouse or are worried about protecting your livelihood, do not hesitate to reach out to us. Our family law attorneys can help you get back on your feet. Contact us online today or call (732) 955-0337 to schedule a consultation.
