Spousal support — commonly referred to as alimony — is designed to provide financial assistance to one spouse following a divorce, taking into account the needs of that spouse and the other spouse’s ability to pay. In New Jersey, spousal support is not automatically granted. Rather, a court decides the issue on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific circumstances of the divorcing parties.

When determining an alimony award, a court reviews the applicant’s living expenses, income and standard of living during the marriage. The court also scrutinizes the other spouse’s ability to pay through an assessment of their income, assets and overall financial obligations. The court might also consider the contributions each spouse made to the marriage, such as homemaking or career sacrifices, which can influence their financial capabilities following the divorce. The objective is to ensure that the economically disadvantaged spouse is provided with a means of support and that the other spouse is not unduly burdened in providing it. 

New Jersey courts have several mechanisms at their disposal in deciding how alimony will be paid. Alimony can be structured as periodic payments—often monthly—which is the most common method, ensuring regular support over time. Alternatively, lump-sum payments may be used in certain circumstances, providing a complete settlement of alimony obligations either at the time of the divorce or soon after. The chosen method of payment usually reflects the overall circumstances of the parties involved and the practicality of regular disbursements versus a one-time payment.

How long alimony lasts is based on several factors, including the length of the marriage. For marriages of shorter duration, alimony might be awarded for a period sufficient to allow the recipient spouse to adjust and become self-supporting. For longer marriages, where one spouse may have sacrificed career development and other economic opportunities for the sake of the household or the other spouse’s career, alimony may be awarded for a longer term or even indefinitely. Courts look at several other factors, including the age and health of both parties, the standard of living during the marriage, the financial resources of both individuals, and the time and expense necessary for the recipient spouse to acquire sufficient education or training to secure employment. Any documented economic disparity or sacrifices made by one spouse during the marriage are also evaluated.

Ultimately, the aim of spousal support in New Jersey is to strike a balance between the interests of the parties based on the practical realities of each individual case. A skilled family law attorney can assist a spouse in receiving necessary support or alternatively help make sure that an award is within a paying spouse’s financial ability without causing hardship.

The Law Offices of Kelli M. Martone in Haddon Heights handles alimony issues for clients throughout Camden, Burlington, Gloucester and Atlantic counties. Please call 856-432-4587 or contact me online to schedule a consultation.