Will I Have to Pay Alimony in New Jersey? Types and Trends in Spousal Support
Will I Have to Pay Alimony in New Jersey? Types and Trends in Spousal Support
When facing a divorce in New Jersey, one of the biggest financial concerns is whether alimony, also known as spousal support, will be part of the settlement. Alimony is designed to provide financial support to a lower-earning spouse and can play a major role in post-divorce stability. Understanding the types of alimony available and recent trends in how New Jersey courts approach these cases can help you prepare for what lies ahead.
Types of Alimony in New Jersey
New Jersey law recognizes several forms of alimony, each designed for different circumstances:
- Open Durational Alimony – Typically awarded after a long-term marriage (20 years or more), this provides ongoing support until the receiving spouse remarries, cohabitates, or either spouse passes away.
- Limited Duration Alimony – Awarded for a set number of years, often for mid-length marriages.
- Rehabilitative Alimony – Intended to help a spouse gain education, training, or work experience to become self-supporting.
- Reimbursement Alimony – Granted when one spouse supported the other through higher education with the expectation of shared financial benefit later.
Trends in Alimony Awards
In recent years, New Jersey courts have moved toward limiting indefinite alimony, especially after the 2014 alimony reform law. Judges now consider the length of the marriage, both spouses’ earning capacities, and each party’s contributions before determining support. Additionally, cohabitation by the recipient can lead to modification or termination of payments.
Courts also place more emphasis on encouraging financial independence. This means rehabilitative and limited-duration alimony are more common today than permanent arrangements.
Key Factors Courts Consider
- Duration of the marriage
- Age and health of each spouse
- Earning capacities and work history
- Standard of living during the marriage
- Contributions to childcare and homemaking
- Financial needs and resources of both parties
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Alimony is not automatic in New Jersey—it is determined based on the unique circumstances of each marriage. Because these decisions can have long-lasting financial effects, it is important to understand your rights and obligations.
At Mavinkurve & Patel LLC Attorneys at Law, we provide legal assistance to individuals throughout New Jersey navigating divorce and spousal support issues. We can help you understand what to expect and work toward a fair resolution.
