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If you are facing a divorce, you may be wondering what types of alimony is available to dependent spouses in New Jersey. Continue reading and reach out to our experienced divorce attorney to learn the various types of alimony and what each entails.

What are the different types of alimony in New Jersey? 

The following are the four primary types of alimony that are available to individuals who have been dependent on their spouse financially and are now facing a divorce:

  • Limited-duration alimony: Limited-duration alimony will last until a set date or self-sufficiency has been reached. This type of alimony is primarily used for spouses who have been married for a short period of time. 
  • Open-durational alimony: This type of alimony is generally used for spouses who have been married for over 20 years. Open-durational alimony does not have a set end date. However, it is possible to modify the alimony amount based on a significant change in circumstance such as remarriage, cohabitation, or receiving/earning a sum of money that eliminates the need for financial support.
  • Rehabilitative alimony: Rehabilitative alimony is primarily used when a spouse requires additional schooling or vocational training to become financially independent.
    • For example, if one spouse left their job to care for their children, they may have lost the necessary skills to return to their employment successfully. Rehabilitation alimony will be utilized to allow that individual to undergo training to re-enter the workplace. 
  • Reimbursement alimony: Reimbursement alimony is typically used when both spouses pool their resources to allow a single party to pursue higher education. This is typically done to achieve a higher earning potential in the future. The spouse who sacrificed their own earning potential or education opportunities may be entitled to reimbursement for personal and financial sacrifices they made. This compensation will be based on the financial contributions toward the former spouses’ education including household expenses, school travel costs, education expenses, and other contributions.

What will the courts consider when deciding how much alimony I will receive?

One of the factors that New Jersey courts will consider when determining alimony is the duration of your marriage. You and your spouse’s age and health will also be considered as well as if you have any children and what your child custody agreement is. Finally, the court will consider the standard of living established in your marriage.

If you have any additional questions, do not hesitate to contact our experienced New Jersey divorce attorney today.

CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NEW JERSEY FIRM

If you require strong legal representation for matters of divorce and family law in Rumson, Monmouth County, or anywhere in New Jersey, contact The Law Offices of Paone, Zaleski & Murphy to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys today.