Alimony lawyers are also involved during divorce. The latter isn’t just about dividing property and deciding custody. For many couples, alimony — also known as spousal support — becomes one of the most important and stressful issues. If you’re wondering what alimony means, how it’s calculated, and what it’s based on in New Jersey, you’re not alone.
At The Davies Law Firm in Hackensack, our alimony lawyers help clients throughout Bergen County understand the law, protect their rights, and secure fair outcomes. Here’s what you need to know before heading into negotiations or court.
What Does Alimony Mean in New Jersey?
A good alimony lawyer should explain to you that ‘alimony’ refers to financial support one spouse pays to the other after separation or divorce. Its purpose is to balance the economic impact of divorce and ensure neither spouse is left at a significant disadvantage.
In NJ, alimony isn’t automatic. It’s based on your unique circumstances, and judges have wide discretion in deciding whether support is appropriate and how much should be awarded. With each case different from one another, it’s almost always advisable to get the input and help of an alimony lawyer to ensure that the alimony process goes smoothly.
How Is Alimony Calculated in New Jersey?
Unlike child support, New Jersey doesn’t have a strict formula for alimony. Instead, courts weigh several factors under state law (N.J.S.A. 2A:34-23). Alimony lawyers explain that key considerations include:
- The length of the marriage
- Each spouse’s income and earning ability
- Age and health of both parties
- Standard of living during the marriage
- Financial and non-financial contributions (such as raising children)
- Whether one spouse supported the other’s career or education
- The need for additional training or education to become self-sufficient
Important: Judges also consider any agreements you and your spouse make, but they must be fair and reasonable.
What Is Alimony Based On?
In most cases, alimony is based on the difference in income and lifestyle between spouses. For example:
- If one spouse left the workforce to raise children, alimony may help them reestablish financial independence.
- If one spouse supported the other’s career (by working while the other went to school), the court may recognize that contribution.
Every case is different. The judge will look closely at your financial disclosures to determine what’s fair.
How Much Alimony Can I Get in New Jersey?
The exact amount depends on your situation. While there’s no set percentage, many judges use income comparison as a guide. For example, if there’s a large gap between your earnings and your spouse’s, you may be entitled to ongoing support.
Alimony can take different forms, including:
- Open durational alimony (for marriages lasting 20+ years)
- Limited duration alimony (for shorter marriages)
- Rehabilitative alimony (temporary support while you gain education or training)
- Reimbursement alimony (repayment for sacrifices like funding a spouse’s education)
Talk to The Davies Law Firm today to understand which type applies to your case.
How Do Judges Determine Alimony?
Judges have significant discretion, but they follow a clear legal framework. In practice, they look at:
- Income and financial need
- Earning potential
- Lifestyle during marriage
- Contributions to family and household
- Custody arrangements (if children are involved)
Your alimony lawyer’s job is to present the strongest case for your side — whether you’re seeking alimony or defending against an unfair request.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Because alimony isn’t formula-based in NJ, the outcome often depends on how effectively your case is presented. Having an experienced Bergen County alimony lawyer ensures:
- Your financial information is properly documented
- The court understands your contributions to the marriage
- You’re protected against unfair demands or lowball offers
At The Davies Law Firm in Hackensack, we fight for fair alimony arrangements that protect your financial future.
Take the First Step Today
If you’re asking yourself how much alimony you can get or what alimony is based on, now is the time to get clarity. Don’t walk into negotiations or court without understanding your rights.Call The Davies Law Firm at (201) 820-3460 to schedule your consultation today.