Alimony Lawyers in Monmouth & Ocean County, NJ
Worried about supporting yourself after divorce? Whether you were a stay-at-home parent or the primary earner, alimony may help you transition into financial independence. At Villani & DeLuca, P.C., our seasoned NJ divorce lawyers help clients across Monmouth and Ocean Counties understand their rights—and fight for the support they deserve.
What Is Alimony in New Jersey?
Alimony, also referred to as spousal support, is a form of financial assistance that one spouse may be obligated to provide to the other during or following divorce proceedings. Its primary purpose is to enable the lower-earning spouse to sustain a standard of living comparable to that experienced during the marriage, particularly when there is a substantial disparity in income between the parties.
Alimony is separate from child support. While child support is intended to provide for the needs of children, alimony supports the former spouse as they work toward financial self-sufficiency.
How is Alimony Calculated?
Types of Alimony in NJ
In New Jersey courts, judges may award different types of alimony based on the circumstances of your marriage:
1. Temporary (Pendente Lite) Alimony
- Paid during the divorce process
- Helps the dependent spouse cover living expenses and legal costs while the case is pending
2. Open Durational Alimony
- Common in long-term marriages (20+ years)
- No set end date; continues until a triggering event (e.g., remarriage, retirement)
3. Limited Duration Alimony
- Awarded for a specific period, often in shorter marriages
- Intended to support while the receiving spouse becomes self-sufficient
4. Rehabilitative Alimony
- Covers education or training costs needed for the dependent spouse to reenter the workforce
5. Reimbursement Alimony
Applies when one spouse financially supported the other's education or training during marriage
Who Qualifies for Alimony?
Whether you're the stay-at-home mom who paused your career to raise kids, or the stay-at-home dad who supported a high-earning spouse, you may qualify for alimony.
The court considers several factors under N.J.S.A. 2A:34-23, including:
- Length of the marriage
- Each spouse's income and earning potential
- Parental responsibilities
- Age and health of both parties
- Contributions to the marriage (financial and non-financial)canva
- Standard of living during the marriage
Judges in Monmouth and Ocean County often consider local cost of living when determining alimony amounts.
Common Concerns About Alimony
“I'm afraid I'll be broke after the divorce.”
If you relied on your spouse's income, you have legal options. Temporary alimony can help you get through the divorce, and permanent or limited alimony may be awarded after.
“I supported my spouse's career—do I get compensated?”
If you paid for your spouse's degree or helped them build their business, reimbursement alimony might apply.
“Do I have to pay if my spouse refuses to work?”
Courts may impute income to a spouse who is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed without good reason.
Speak With A Divorce Attorney
Our NJ divorce legal team has created some helpful articles to provide a brief overview of the New Jersey divorce laws concerning alimony. Please remember that divorce laws are different for each state and your divorce deserves a customized approach to address your individual circumstances. You should speak with a qualified family law attorney that is experienced in your local area. Call Villani & DeLuca, P.C. at 732-751-4991.