Whether you are about to start the divorce process, are currently in the thick of a divorce, or have been divorced for years, you’ve likely had some experience with the spousal support system. Spousal support, also called alimony, is a regular payment issued from one ex-spouse to another after a divorce. People often have many questions about alimony, and there are a number of misconceptions that often circulate during a divorce. Whatever stage of the divorce process you are currently in, it is important that you understand how alimony works and how it may apply to you.
Alimony Aims to Make Things Equal
In New Jersey, these payments are intended to ensure that each spouse enjoys the same standard of living they did as a married couple. One spouse may be ordered to provide alimony as financial assistance to ensure the other spouse enjoys a standard of living equal to their own.
Not Every Divorce Grants Alimony
Alimony is not assumed upon divorce. If someone wishes to pursue his or her rights to alimony, they must prove, to a judge, that they require the financial support.
There Are Many Different Types of Alimony
New Jersey awards many different kinds of alimony, including limited duration alimony, reimbursement alimony, and rehabilitative alimony. Each of these types of alimony has a limited duration defined by a conclusive date and a set amount depending on the financial situation of each ex-spouse. There is also permanent alimony, which is final and ongoing.
New Jersey Recognizes Permanent Alimony
Permanent alimony can continue indefinitely if the need of the spouse can be adequately proven. The court will decide whether or not to award permanent alimony depending on the age of each spouse, the duration of the marriage, the financial position of each spouse, and a host of other factors.
Alimony Can Be Modified
If you were awarded permanent alimony or asked to provide alimony payments, the court order can sometimes be modified. In the event that the circumstances of either ex-spouse drastically chances, the court may change the ordered amount or stop the order of support altogether. However, the chance of circumstances must prove the alimony to be unfair or unreasonable.
If you have any further questions about alimony in New Jersey, or you need help with another aspect of your divorce, our Bergen County divorce attorney can help. Contact Sherwood, Johnson & Poles to discuss your options.