Spousal Support / Alimony

SOMERSET COUNTY SPOUSAL SUPPORT LAWYER

Finding Fair Solutions to Spousal Support Agreements in Somerset County

During a divorce, the two biggest questions people have are “How many years will alimony be paid?” and
“How much will be paid?” Whether you have an obligation to pay alimony or are receiving support, these are issues that must be resolved.

If you are going through a divorce or making modifications to an existing divorce agreement, you should consult with one of our experienced spousal support attorneys in Somerville. Our NJ alimony attorney can help you determine spousal support and alimony payments at the time of divorce consistent with New Jersey law. We serve clients in Somerset County, Morris County, Union County, Middlesex County, and Essex County.

Understanding Alimony in New Jersey

Alimony, also known as spousal support, is a crucial aspect of divorce proceedings in New Jersey. Whether you are seeking alimony or are being asked to pay it, it is important to understand the factors that go into calculating alimony and how long it may last.

At Lane & Lane, LLC, our NJ spousal support lawyers are dedicated to finding fair and equitable solutions to alimony matters for our clients. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can fight for your best interests.

If you are going through an alimony dispute in central New Jersey, call (908) 259-6673 to benefit from a team of alimony lawyers with more than 60 years of combined experience.

How is Alimony Calculated in New Jersey?

There is no hard and fast rule for determining the duration or amount of alimony; NJSA 2A:34-23 sets forth the numerous factors that are taken into consideration when the Court makes an alimony determination:

The duration of your marriage
Each party's income
Child-rearing responsibilities
Earning potential, etc.

It’s important that you obtain a comprehensive and accurate list of your assets in order to reach a fair alimony arrangement. There are many things that are easy to overlook, but this is where an attorney can help. Our trusted spousal support attorneys in Somerset County can help you review assets and the terms of your divorce, and calculate what a fair spousal support arrangement would look like. Our team is experienced in complex situations, including high-asset divorce situations.

How Long Does Alimony Last?

Duration of Alimony Payments in NJ

When determining how long to award alimony, the duration of the marriage is a significant consideration that courts weigh. However, there is no set duration of commitment that immediately causes an alimony requirement under the statute. If they have been together for fewer than 20 years, however, New Jersey law forbids alimony from being charged for more than the duration of the marriage unless there are special conditions, such as the dependent spouse's chronic condition. The new spousal support statute qualifies for “open duration” alimony if the union lasted more than 20 years.

What if You Become Disabled or Lose Your Job?

Alimony Modification in NJ

Depending on the circumstances, unemployment will also minimize the spousal support responsibilities. You'll need to ask the court for a review of the current support order if the payout rate is no longer practicable or equitable due to the lack of employment. You'll still need to prove that a material change of conditions has arisen.

While both of you will be expected to file a formal motion, the court may amend the order after a short hearing at which each of you show approval for the move.

If your spouse does not accept that the loss of work can result in a decrease in spousal benefits, you must reassure the court that the adjustment is fair in terms of the current financial circumstances. The following factors will be considered by the judge:

If either the work reduction was planned or unintentional. You should not leave your job or behave in a manner that causes you to be fired in an effort to minimize your salary and avoid paying alimony.
Your present work situation. You will not be able to get your support order changed if you have lost employment but have another that pays equally (or if you are very likely to get a comparable job in a short period of time).
You have other revenue as well as the financial means to compensate. If you lose your employment, have substantial retirement profits, rental income, or other forms of income, you can still be able to pay the necessary alimony.

Since employment loss will have a huge effect on your situation and spousal support commitments, it's important to consult with an experienced New Jersey alimony lawyer about how your current affairs can affect your support responsibilities.

Impact of NJ Tax Laws on Alimony

As of January 1, 2019, alimony law has changed in that the payor is now taxed as opposed to the recipient. This is because the government sees more cash flow from the payor, as they are usually in a higher tax bracket.

To learn more about how we can help with your NJ spousal support case, contact us online or call (908) 259-6673 to schedule a meeting with our attorneys today.

Contact Us Today

We Are Ready to Fight for You

First Name
Last Name
Phone
Email
Are you a new client?
How can we help you?
By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Lane & Lane, LLC at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy

Very professional.
“I have used Lane & Lane and I was very happy with the way they handle my case. Very professional. I would recommend Lane & Lane to anybody that needs a good divorce lawyer.”

- Emilio R.
Thank you Eric for always answering my questions and getting me through my divorce.
“Thank you Eric for always answering my questions and getting me through my divorce.”

- Jessica S.
Good, family-owned law firm.
“Good, family-owned law firm. My wife and I didn't know much about wills, but knew we needed a plan to handle our assets and, most importantly, ensure our children were cared for if anything ever happened to us. As parents themselves, they understood our concerns and guided us through the documents and subsequent decisions we needed to make. In the end, we are relieved to have these official documents and are confident they will serve their purpose should they ever be needed.”

- Brad C.
Dan is always available whenever I call him for any questions or concerns.
“I can’t say enough about Dan and the Lane & Lane firm. Dan carefully listened to all my concerns and goals throughout this process and explained everything that was required to meet my goals. Dan is always available whenever I call him for any questions or concerns. I would recommend Dan and the Lane & Lane firm to anyone looking to get any legal advice in the state of NJ, they are top-notch. Thank you, Lane, & Lane for your outstanding service.”

- Satish P.
Honest & trustworthy.
“If peace of mind is what you are looking for, I recommend Daniel.”

- Brad
I was very pleased and left with peace of mind.
“Eric is very thorough and he makes sure that your needs are heard and met. I highly recommend Eric Lane for your legal needs.”

- Chandra
Courteous, supportive and easy to work with.
“Dan and his team were always there to answer any of my questions as well as always keeping me informed as to what is going on.”

- Scott D.
Dan went above and beyond to ensure the final result was fair.
“Dan and his office were very attentive to my needs during this difficult time. Dan went above and beyond to ensure the final result was fair. I highly recommend Lane and Lane for anyone shopping around for a Divorce Lawyer/Family Law Lawyer.”

- Christopher M.

View All Reviews

A Resolution Is a Step Away

Let us devote our time to your case that can range from divorce, child custody, equitable distribution, domestic violence, and more. We are committed to find an end solution that you and your family can walk away from with peace of mind.

About Our Firm

Somerville Office 908-259-6673

Locations

Somerville Office
84 East Main Street
2nd Floor
Somerville, NJ 08876
Map & Directions
Morris Plains Office
101 Gibraltar Drive, Suite 2F
Morris Plains, NJ 07950
Map & Directions

Follow Us