Monmouth County Spousal Support Lawyer
When dissolving a marriage or civil union, couples may face challenges reaching agreements over finances and property division. The process of equitably dividing assets is complex, and some cases may lead to a couple agreeing to or a court ordering alimony.
Spousal support payments are not guaranteed, and the court’s decision will depend on each individual’s financial situation and the circumstances of their marriage together. Whether you may be paying or receiving alimony, it is vital to speak with a family law attorney about the steps you can take to protect your rights. Schedule to meet with a seasoned Monmouth County spousal support lawyer to learn more.
What Is Alimony and When Do Courts Grant It?
Alimony is a series of payments one person gives to their ex-spouse during or after their divorce. Spousal support ensures the person with less income has the means to continue living a similar lifestyle as before the divorce. These payments are most common when one spouse financially supported the family while the other stayed home as a caretaker or had minimal employment. One person may send monthly payments directly to their ex-spouse, or these payments may go through a collections and enforcement agency.
In most cases, alimony is temporary for a fixed amount of years. However, alimony could be “open durational” when a couple has been married for at least 20 years. “Open durational” alimony essentially means that the term of payment is indefinite. A spousal support lawyer in Monmouth County can help calculate potential payments by reviewing existing marital agreements or assessing financial contributions during a marriage.
Types of Alimony in Monmouth County
Different types of alimony are available to spouses depending on the status of their divorce. Each option offers different payment structures. Pendent lite alimony is fixed payments to a spouse during the divorce process.
After a divorce, limited-duration alimony involves payments with a firm end date. Open-duration alimony does not have this end date. Factors that affect the amount of alimony include both spouses’ incomes, earning capacity, contributions to the home and childcare, and any personal debt.
Less common types of alimony include rehabilitative alimony, which are payments intended to help the recipient spouse pursue job training or certification for a higher level of employment. These payments support an ex-spouse until the point where they can financially support themselves.
Every marriage is different, and a fair alimony agreement should consider the needs and abilities of both spouses. A local spousal support attorney can further explain the distinctions between these options and guide a couple toward an ideal resolution.
Called a Skilled Monmouth County Spousal Support Attorney
The family court reviews many factors when determining whether to award alimony. When you are going through a divorce, speaking with an experienced Monmouth County spousal support lawyer is the most effective way to understand your rights and ensure they are respected.
A seasoned family law attorney at Moskowitz Law Group can advocate on your behalf and help you reach a fair agreement. Call today to schedule a free consultation.
