When two spouses decide to get divorced, one of the most important financial considerations is alimony, also known as spousal support. Alimony is awarded to ensure that a financially dependent spouse can maintain a lifestyle similar to the one established during the marriage and to help them adjust to financial independence and stability. There are several different types of alimony available in New Jersey that each serve a different purpose. For more information, read on and speak with a knowledgeable Union County alimony attorney today.
Are There Different Types of Spousal Support in NJ?
Yes, there are different types of alimony in New Jersey. State law recognizes that each marriage and divorce is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution to financial support between spouses. For this reason, there are several different types that can be applied depending on the circumstances of the situation.
What Are the Different Types of Alimony?
New Jersey state law recognizes several types of alimony that serve specific purposes depending on the circumstances of the couple. Under NJ 2A:34-23, the following types of alimony can be awarded in a divorce.
- Open durational: Formerly known as permanent alimony, open durational support is awarded in long-term marriages that typically last 20 years or longer. It does not have a set end date and continues indefinitely unless there is a significant change in either party’s circumstances that warrants an adjustment.
- Limited duration: Limited durational alimony is awarded for a specific period of time, especially when one spouse needs financial support but can become independent eventually. The length of alimony is based on the length of the marriage as well as the approximate time the dependent spouse will likely need support.
- Rehabilitative: Rehabilitative alimony is designed to support a spouse who is pursuing education, training for new skills, or attempting to secure employment post-divorce. This type of support allows them to be financially secure while they work towards becoming self-sufficient.
- Reimbursement: Reimbursement alimony aims to compensate a spouse for support that they offered the other during the marriage. One spouse may have financially supported the other while they pursued higher education, like medical or law school, under the assumption that it would benefit both spouses in the long run. If one spouse made significant financial or personal sacrifices to help the other, they can be awarded reimbursement in the form of spousal support.
While these are the four main types of spousal support in New Jersey, it is important to understand pendente lite as well. Pendente lite, or temporary alimony, is awarded during a separation or the divorce process to ensure that both spouses maintain financial stability while the divorce is pending. This allows the lower-earning spouse to afford legal counsel and continue paying bills and other obligations during the transitional period.
For more information about the different types of alimony, reach out to a skilled attorney today.
