Can Men Receive Alimony?

Different people often have different ideas of what they should keep or gain in a divorce. It can be challenging to work out an agreement that is fair in everyone’s eyes, especially when it comes to issues like spousal support (alimony).

Many people think of alimony as something a man pays to his ex-wife. However, this is not always the case, and is a misconception. As more men become stay-at-home fathers for their families, many spouses are left wondering: Can men receive alimony?

How is Alimony Determined?

There are a few ways to arrange for alimony during a divorce in New Jersey. Before getting married, both parties can agree upon the allocation of spousal support in a prenuptial agreement. Divorcing couples can also decide on alimony as part of their settlement agreement. However, when couples cannot see eye-to-eye on a settlement, the award will be decided by a judge at trial.

A family court judge considers multiple factors when determining if a spouse is eligible for alimony. Some of these factors include the length of the marriage, actual need for alimony, ability to pay alimony, the age of the spouses, the income of each spouse, sacrifices made during the marriage for the sake of the children, and any absence from the job market. Spousal support is awarded on a case-by-case basis and depends on the facts and circumstances of each of the divorcing parties.

When Courts Allocate Alimony to Men

A court is supposed to weigh all factors of an alimony allocation without referring to or considering the genders of the spouses. Traditionally, the main reason why women received alimony much more often than men was because of the role they took on as a homemaker who stayed home to raise children. Now, more men are taking on the role of a homemaker and more women are becoming the primary or sole breadwinner.

A court cannot deny a man spousal support simply because of his gender. In situations where a man has more of a need for spousal support after marriage, they can pursue the same claims to any alimony they need with the help of an experienced alimony lawyer.

Men Seeking Alimony Should Work With a Knowledgeable Divorce Attorney

Alimony can be a sensitive and stressful topic as you try to envision your life post-divorce. Our team at Moskowitz Law Group is here to help. If you have any questions about alimony or other aspects of your divorce, contact our office today and set up your free consultation. We are ready to get to work for you.