Clarity & Strength in New Jersey Alimony Matters

If you’re going through a divorce or adjusting after one, alimony—also known as spousal support—can become one of the most financially and emotionally charged issues on the table. Whether you expect to receive support or may be ordered to pay it, we help you understand your rights and fight for an outcome that’s fair.


As experienced New Jersey alimony lawyers, we assist clients throughout Bergen County, including Hackensack, Englewood, and Teaneck, with support arrangements tailored to their circumstances and financial futures.

The Four Types of Alimony in New Jersey

New Jersey recognizes four main types of alimony. The court will decide which—if any—applies based on the details of your case.

  • Rehabilitative Alimony
    Designed to fund education, training, or job-readiness for a spouse who temporarily needs support to re-enter the workforce.
  • Reimbursement Alimony
    Used when one spouse supported the other’s career or education during the marriage, and now seeks repayment.
  • Open Durational Alimony
    Usually awarded in long-term marriages (20+ years), this continues indefinitely unless circumstances change significantly (such as retirement or remarriage).
  • Open Durational Alimony
    Usually awarded in long-term marriages (20+ years), this continues indefinitely unless circumstances change significantly (such as retirement or remarriage).

Even if you’ve heard these terms before, understanding how they apply in practice is key. We’ll explain what’s likely in your case and make sure your voice is heard.

How Alimony Is Decided in New Jersey Courts

There’s no formula for spousal support in New Jersey. Instead, judges evaluate a list of statutory factors, including:

  • Length of the marriage
  • Each spouse’s income and earning capacity
  • Health and age of both parties
  • Parental responsibilities and custody
  • Standard of living during the marriage
  • Education and job skills
  • Contributions to the marriage (including raising children or supporting a spouse’s career)
  • Property division outcomes (see Equitable Distribution page)

We take a thorough, evidence-based approach to every case. Whether we’re building a request for support or defending against an excessive claim, we focus on the full financial picture, not just the bottom line.

Can Alimony Be Changed or Enforced After Divorce?

Support can be established in two ways:

  • By Agreement: Parents may negotiate support terms and include them in a Property Settlement Agreement during divorce.


  • By Court Order: If no agreement is reached, the court will decide based on the Child Support Guidelines and other evidence.

Some clients also receive temporary child support while a divorce is pending. Once finalized, the support order becomes part of the divorce judgment.

Alimony or Spousal Support—Is There a Difference?

In New Jersey, “alimony” and “spousal support” mean the same thing. Both refer to financial support from one spouse to the other, usually following divorce. The term “spousal support” is sometimes used more frequently in negotiations or mediation.

A Practical, Fair-Minded Approach to Spousal Support

We represent both recipients and payers of alimony. Whether you're asking for support or concerned about overpaying, we’ll help you prepare, present your case clearly, and negotiate a fair outcome. If settlement isn't possible, we’re prepared to go to court and advocate for your rights with professionalism and strength.



Our team understands that alimony isn’t just about money—it’s about your ability to rebuild your life after divorce. We keep that perspective at the heart of everything we do.

Common Questions About Alimony in NJ

  • How long do I have to pay alimony in New Jersey?

    It depends on the type of alimony awarded. Some alimony is time-limited (like rehabilitative), while open durational alimony lasts indefinitely unless circumstances change.

  • How is alimony calculated in NJ?

    There’s no set formula. The court considers a list of factors like marriage length, income, standard of living, and more. It’s important to have a lawyer who can present the right evidence.

  • Can alimony be changed after the divorce is finalized?

    Yes. If there’s been a significant change in circumstances, like retirement or a substantial income shift, we can help you file a motion to modify support.

  • What if my ex won’t pay alimony?

    We can take legal action to enforce the order. This could involve wage garnishment or other court-imposed consequences.

  • Is alimony different from spousal support?

    Not in New Jersey. Both terms refer to the same obligation—financial support paid by one spouse to the other after separation or divorce.

Work with a New Jersey Spousal Support Attorney Who Listens

Our firm works with clients across Bergen County, including those navigating divorce, enforcement, and alimony modifications. We take the time to explain the law in plain English and help you make confident decisions.