When a couple gets married, their finances are combined in various ways. Depending on a number of factors, one spouse may have to pay alimony, also known as spousal support, to the other. Read on to learn more about the different types of alimony in New Jersey.
Will I Have to Pay Alimony?
When it comes to a divorce, many wonder whether they will have to pay alimony. When making decisions about alimony, a New Jersey court will examine the following factors:
- The length of your marriage
- The standard of living established in your marriage
- You and your spouse’s yearly income
- Your child custody/support agreement
- You and your spouse’s age and health
- Any other factor the court deems relevant
What are the Different Types of Alimony in New Jersey?
Every relationship is different. As a result, there are various types of alimony awarded in New Jersey. These types are as follows:
- Open Durational Alimony: Generally, this is reserved for spouses who have been married for over 20 years. Open durational alimony is not permanent, however, it is open-ended, and can go on for an indeterminate amount of time. However, if someone receiving open educational alimony gets a higher-paying job, receives a large sum of money, or remarries, these are usually triggering events that will discontinue the alimony.
- Limited Duration Alimony: If you are the financially dependent spouse and have been married for less than 20 years, the court will most likely grant you limited duration alimony, which essentially awards you the financial support you need for a predetermined period of time.
- Reimbursement Alimony: This is for spouses who paid for their spouse’s education or training, then that spouse filed for divorce. In this case, the spouse who paid for their spouse’s education may receive reimbursement alimony.
- Rehabilitative Alimony: When a spouse foregoes his or her career/career goals to support his or her spouse and further their career, oftentimes, after a divorce, the supporting spouse may be awarded what is known as rehabilitative alimony. This type of alimony is designed to provide that spouse with any education or retraining they may need to resume their career.
If you have any questions or concerns about alimony in New Jersey, reach out to our firm today.
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