One of the most ambiguous and complicated issues that must be tackled during the divorce process is alimony, also known as spousal support. If you are considering divorce, it is often difficult to know in advance whether you or your spouse will be entitled to alimony and even more challenging to anticipate the amount, as New Jersey law contains no consistent formula for determining payments. Whether you are pursuing alimony payments or your spouse is seeking them from you, it is highly advisable to consult with an experienced New Jersey divorce attorney. With the help of a team of lawyers who are familiar with the way in which alimony laws have been applied historically, you can more effectively make a case for your preferred outcome.
Alimony Lawyers | Representing Clients in Morris County & Throughout New Jersey
At Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark, L.L.C., with offices in Whippany, New Jersey, our divorce lawyers have the specialized knowledge that is required to properly address the issue of alimony in New Jersey. Having assisted countless clients with a diverse body of circumstances, our attorneys are prepared to tackle the most complex and contentious situations. Whether your case involves high net worth or high profile divorce, division of business assets, or complex property distribution, our team of family law professionals will zealously advocate to achieve the best possible outcome. If an alimony award can be settled through informal negotiations or alternative dispute resolution, we will work to facilitate an efficient, cost-effective agreement. However, if a settlement with your spouse is simply unfeasible, we will move forward with an aggressive litigation strategy.
For additional information and the answers to your pressing questions, contact us at 973-840-8970 to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our experienced divorce attorneys.
Factors Affecting New Jersey Spousal Support
Alimony is a regular payment made from one ex-spouse to the other after divorce. While it was originally designed to maintain women after divorce, alimony in New Jersey is now completely gender neutral.
Alimony is not granted in every divorce case. Whether you or your spouse is required to pay alimony, and if so how much and for how long, is determined based on a number of factors, including, but not limited to the following:
- The assets that each party brought into the marriage
- The individual assets that each party is taking out of the marriage
- The duration of the marriage
- Each party’s education and earning potential
- The health of each party
- The need of each party
- The ability of either party to pay
- The current income of each party
- The historical earnings of each party
- Each party’s standard of living and lifestyle during the marriage
If you and your spouse share children, the child custody arrangement and respective responsibilities of each party with regard to childcare will also be considered as relevant factors when making alimony determinations.
Unlike child support, there is no concrete formula for determining alimony. Judges have broad discretion as to how they weigh the above factors, but when they give more weight to one than another, they must provide a written explanation as to why. The variability of these determinations underscores the need for knowledgeable legal counsel.
Contact Our Morristown, NJ Alimony Lawyers for a Free Consultation
In any divorce, there is a great deal of uncertainty. Questions about alimony often compound questions about your future, your rights, and your responsibilities. Fortunately, with a seasoned divorce attorney on your side, you can make informed, confident decisions that best serve your interests. Contact the Morris County law offices of Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark today to understand your available options. One of our New Jersey divorce attorneys will answer your questions and provide you with a cost-free initial consultation.
