Dear Cassie: I heard from a friend that there are different types of alimony in New Jersey. Is this true?
-A.C.
Dear A.C.:
Yes, it’s true.
In New Jersey, there are four types of alimony: open durational, limited duration, rehabilitative, and reimbursement.
Open durational alimony and limited duration alimony are the most common types of alimony. “Open durational alimony” means that there is not a specific end date to the alimony (although alimony is always modifiable in the future, based on changed circumstances). Open durational alimony is only available in marriages that were 20 years in duration or longer, barring exceptional circumstances. “Limited duration alimony” means there is a defined, fixed term for the alimony.
Rehabilitative and reimbursement alimony are less common. “Rehabilitative alimony” refers to alimony paid to a spouse for that spouse to obtain the education or training needed to re-enter the workforce. “Reimbursement alimony” refers to alimony which is designed to reimburse the dependent spouse for the financial contributions made to the education or career of the other party.
Moreover, more than one type of alimony can be awarded in a case. The type of alimony that is appropriate to each matter is dependent on the particular facts and circumstances of that matter.
If you need assistance with alimony, you should seek the advice of matrimonial counsel.
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Cassie Murphy is a divorce and family law Partner with the Law Offices of Paone, Zaleski & Murphy, with offices in Red Bank and Woodbridge.
