When a couple decides to divorce, they may have questions about spousal support. This is also known as alimony, which is the legal responsibility of one spouse to financially support the other spouse after the divorce.

Spousal support is intended to help the receiving spouse maintain the standard of living they had during the marriage. In New Jersey, spousal support can be awarded either temporarily or permanently.

Permanent support is often only awarded in long-term marriages where one spouse cannot financially support themselves. This may be because of lack of education, a disability or an illness.

Amount of spousal support

The court may consider several factors when awarding spousal support. Usually, the longer the marriage, the higher the spousal support award will be.

The court will review the income of each spouse, which includes regular pay, bonuses, commissions or other income. Also, the age and health of each spouse may affect the spousal support amount. This may determine how likely it is that the receiving spouse can find employment.

The receiving spouse may also need training or education to re-enter the workforce and the spousal support may reflect the amount for that as well.

Spousal support may be paid in one lump sum or in regular installments, depending on what the court finds to be in the parties’ best interest. Sometimes, the paying spouse may also be ordered to maintain insurance for the receiving spouse.

The actual amount of the spousal support will depend on the parties’ circumstances.