New Brunswick Alimony Lawyer
Whether you are seeking alimony, contesting a request for support, or negotiating the terms as part of a broader divorce agreement, Attorney Kisha M. Hebbon offers trusted advocacy and clear guidance every step of the way. With more than 20 years of experience in New Jersey family law, our New Brunswick alimony lawyer understands how to build strong cases and advocate effectively for her client’s financial interests—both during settlement negotiations and in court.
When a marriage ends in divorce, one of the most emotionally and financially charged issues is often alimony, also known as spousal support. Alimony can have a significant impact on both parties’ futures—providing critical support to one spouse while ensuring fairness in the distribution of post-divorce financial responsibilities. At the Law Offices of Kisha M. Hebbon, LLC, we represent clients throughout New Brunswick in all aspects of alimony proceedings.
Options for Alimony in New Jersey
New Jersey law allows for several different types of alimony, depending on the length of the marriage, the needs of each spouse, and other factors. The courts aim to promote fairness and minimize economic disparity that can result from divorce.
The main kinds of alimony recognized in New Jersey are:
- Open durational alimony: Typically awarded in long-term marriages (generally over 20 years), this type of support continues indefinitely until the receiving spouse remarries, cohabits, or either party dies.
- Limited duration alimony: Awarded for a specific period, often after shorter marriages, this form of alimony provides support while the recipient adjusts to post-divorce life.
- Rehabilitative alimony: Designed to help a spouse gain the education or training needed to become self-supporting, rehabilitative alimony is usually tied to a specific plan or timeline.
- Reimbursement alimony: Appropriate when one spouse supported the other through advanced education or career training with the expectation of shared benefits that will no longer be realized due to divorce.
Courts may award a combination of alimony types depending on the circumstances. Attorney Hebbon works with clients to determine the most appropriate form of support and presents compelling evidence to support her client’s position—whether requesting or contesting alimony.
Factors That Influence Alimony Awards
Unlike child support, which is based on a formula and required by law, alimony is highly discretionary. New Jersey judges evaluate a wide range of statutory factors under N.J.S.A. 2A:34-23 to determine whether alimony is appropriate and, if so, in what amount and for how long.
Some of the key factors include:
- The actual need and ability of the parties to pay
- The duration of the marriage or civil union
- The age, physical and emotional health of the parties
- The standard of living established during the marriage
- The earning capacities, education, and employment histories of both parties
- Parental responsibilities for children
- Contributions to the marriage, including homemaking and childcare
- The time and expense needed for the dependent spouse to gain training or education
Attorney Hebbon carefully reviews all relevant details in each case, including income statements, tax returns, career histories, and lifestyle documentation. She develops persuasive arguments that align with the client’s financial interests and the statutory framework, whether the goal is to secure fair support or avoid an unjust financial burden.
Alimony and Lifestyle Considerations
One of the most contested aspects of alimony disputes is the “marital lifestyle.” Courts are tasked with considering the standard of living during the marriage and attempting to enable both spouses to maintain a reasonably comparable lifestyle post-divorce.
For example, if one spouse gave up career opportunities to support the home or raise children while the other advanced professionally, the court may award alimony to help that spouse regain footing or maintain financial stability. Conversely, courts also recognize that it is rarely possible to support two separate households at the same level as one, so adjustments must be made based on available resources.
Attorney Hebbon helps clients document the marital lifestyle with accuracy—often using financial records, budgets, and expert analysis—to ensure the court has a clear understanding of what support, if any, is truly appropriate.
Modifying or Terminating Alimony in New Brunswick
Life doesn’t stand still after divorce. In many cases, the terms of an alimony award must be revisited due to changes in income, employment, health, or living arrangements. Under New Jersey law, alimony may be modified or terminated when a substantial change in circumstances occurs.
Common reasons to seek modification include:
- Loss of employment or a significant reduction in income
- Retirement
- Remarriage or cohabitation by the recipient spouse
- Serious illness or disability
Attorney Hebbon represents both payors and recipients in post-judgment modification proceedings. She assists clients in gathering the necessary documentation to support or oppose changes and presents arguments that protect her client’s financial interests under the current circumstances.
Alimony in Mediation or Settlement Agreements
While alimony can be litigated in court, many divorcing spouses choose to address spousal support through mediation or negotiated settlement. This often provides greater flexibility and control over the outcome.
In these situations, Attorney Hebbon helps clients evaluate their options, negotiate strategically, and craft clear, enforceable agreements. She ensures that the alimony provisions reflect her client’s priorities and that all potential contingencies—such as remarriage, job changes, or relocation—are considered and addressed in the agreement.
Protecting Your Financial Future in Divorce
Alimony can be one of the most contentious—and financially significant—issues in a New Jersey divorce. Whether you are concerned about receiving enough support or about being ordered to pay more than you can afford, having knowledgeable legal representation is essential.
At the Law Offices of Kisha M. Hebbon, LLC, we provide honest advice, diligent advocacy, and skilled representation tailored to the specific needs of each client. Our goal is to achieve an alimony outcome that is fair, sustainable, and consistent with New Jersey law.
Talk to a New Brunswick Alimony Attorney Today
If you are facing a divorce or a dispute over alimony in New Brunswick, the Law Offices of Kisha M. Hebbon, LLC is here to help. Attorney Hebbon will explain your rights, evaluate your options, and fight for a resolution that protects your long-term financial well-being. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
