In many marriages, one spouse earns more than the other spouse even when both work full-time jobs. If a divorce becomes imminent, the lesser earning spouse feels concerned about how they will support themselves.
One effective way to combat financial concerns in your post-divorce life is to seek alimony or maintenance. If awarded, alimony can make a big difference in how you live in the aftermath of your Union, New Jersey, divorce.
Is there more than one way to receive alimony?
Yes, like many other states, New Jersey offers several forms of maintenance and alimony. Spousal support in the modern world exists to allow financially disadvantaged spouses to get on their feet and begin supporting themselves.
The available types of alimony and maintenance include:
- Open durational alimony. This form of alimony is available to those with a valid need for support for as long as necessary.
- Limited duration alimony. May apply in short-term marriages when the receiving spouse is young and more employable than older individuals.
- Rehabilitative alimony. A type of short-term alimony when one spouse needs education and training to find a good-paying job after a divorce.
- Reimbursement alimony. A specific amount paid to those who have sacrificed a career or other advantages in support of the other spouse.
In New Jersey and most other states, alimony is never a guarantee. You must show why you need spousal maintenance. Courts consider many factors when deciding on alimony. Examples include:
- Length of the marriage
- Parental responsibilities to shared children
- The capacity of both spouses to earn
- Spousal contributions to marriages
If you believe alimony is essential to the success of your post-divorce life, consider learning more about your spousal maintenance and alimony options.
