What does New Jersey consider when awarding alimony?

On Behalf of | Oct 6, 2021 | Divorce, Spousal Support |

When your New Jersey marriage ends in divorce, your financial big picture may look decidedly different than it did before. This may be especially true if you stopped working or attending school to raise your family or run your household. When you have concerns about supporting yourself without your significant other, you may decide to seek alimony in your divorce.

Per NJ.com, New Jersey does not have a set formula in place dictating who receives alimony and how much they receive. Instead, these considerations depend on certain variables. What are some of the factors New Jersey takes into account when making alimony awards in divorces?

The standard of living enjoyed during the marriage

New Jersey courts try to make it so that you enjoy a similar standard of living after your divorce to the one you did while your marriage was intact. If the chances of you maintaining or staying close to that standard of living without a spouse is low, an alimony award may become more likely.

Earning capacity and employability

The state also considers your occupational skills and ability to earn a living on your own when making determinations about alimony. Your ex’s skills and employability also fall under the microscope.

Your ages

How old you and your ex are at the time of your divorce may also become relevant. If you are older and unlikely to be able to make a successful return to the working world, this may raise your alimony chances.

If you do receive an alimony award in your split, how long you might receive it depends on several circumstances. However, New Jersey no longer makes lifetime alimony awards.

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