New Jersey Palimony Lawyer
There are plenty of couples who live together and have an intimate relationship without being married to or having a recognized civil union. In the event that this kind of relationship comes to an end, there may be issues regarding whether one party who previously provided financial support to the other still has these obligations. It is common for a divorced person to owe alimony to a former spouse, but the situation may become more complicated if the two partners were never legally married.
In certain circumstances, it is possible to seek palimony from a former cohabitant. A seasoned spousal support attorney can explain palimony in more detail and determine whether it is a viable option for you. These cases can be exceptionally complicated and retaining an experienced New Jersey palimony lawyer can be key to protecting your rights throughout your court case.
What is Palimony?
Unlike alimony, spousal maintenance, and spousal support, palimony is financial maintenance available to parties who were never legally married, but who were promised to be financially supported for the rest of their life, even if the relationship ends.
Since palimony was recognized in the New Jersey courts, cohabitating partners and registered domestic partners in New Jersey have the right to seek support payments from their former partners, as well as ownership over equitably distributed “marital” property. However, specific criteria must be met for someone to be eligible to receive palimony, all of which a New Jersey attorney can explain.
Requirements for a Valid Palimony Claim
Under current state law, a person who wants to seek “palimony” payments must have a written agreement between them and their former partner indicating the partner’s willingness to provide financial support upon the dissolution of the relationship. Both parties must have signed the agreement for it to be valid, and only after receiving counsel from separate legal representatives.
This requirement applies to anyone who entered into a domestic partnership or cohabitating relationship with an intimate partner on or after January 18, 2010, which is when a legislative amendment went into effect that prohibits palimony claims based on purely verbal agreements.
A later New Jersey Supreme Court ruling affirmed that this amendment is not retroactive. Accordingly, an individual with a non-contractual claim for financial support from their former cohabitant based on a verbal promise of support prior to the amendment may still have grounds for a palimony case. A lawyer in New Jersey can discuss potential palimony options on a case-by-case basis during a private consultation.
Reach out to a New Jersey Palimony Attorney Today
Although it is possible to hold a former intimate partner accountable for financial support, a valid contract is generally needed between the two parties that explicitly promises this type of agreement.
If you need help enforcing such a contract or interpreting what rights you may have with regard to a relationship dating back several years or decades, retaining skilled legal counsel with experience handling this unique kind of claim may be crucial.
A qualified New Jersey palimony lawyer can provide the assistance you might need to seek the outcome you want from your court claim. Call today to schedule a consultation.
