Somerset Alimony Lawyer
Alimony—also known as spousal support—is one of the most contested and emotionally charged aspects of a divorce. For the spouse who may be financially dependent, alimony can be essential to maintaining stability during and after the dissolution of a marriage. For the paying spouse, there may be legitimate concerns about fairness, affordability, and the duration of payments. At the Law Offices of Kisha M. Hebbon, LLC, our Somerset alimony lawyers represent clients in all matters involving alimony, working to secure results that are just, practical, and in line with New Jersey law.
We understand that every marriage is different, and so is every divorce. Whether you are seeking alimony, being asked to pay it, or navigating a post-divorce modification, our firm offers experienced guidance and effective advocacy. We take the time to understand your circumstances, explain your rights, and develop a strategy that reflects your long-term financial goals.
Types of Alimony in New Jersey
New Jersey recognizes several types of alimony, each designed to meet different needs depending on the length of the marriage, the lifestyle of the spouses, and the financial circumstances of both parties. The most common form is open durational alimony, which replaced what was once known as permanent alimony. This type of support is typically awarded in marriages lasting 20 years or more and continues until the recipient remarries, cohabitates with a new partner, or either party dies—although retirement of the paying spouse can be a valid reason to terminate or modify the award.
In shorter marriages or those where one spouse simply needs temporary financial help to become self-sufficient, the court may award limited duration alimony. This form of alimony is set for a specific period of time and is often used to help a lower-earning spouse transition into financial independence.
There is also rehabilitative alimony, which is designed to support a spouse while they obtain the education or training needed to reenter the workforce. The party requesting rehabilitative alimony must usually provide a clear plan outlining how the support will help them reach financial self-sufficiency. Finally, reimbursement alimony may be awarded to compensate one spouse for expenses they covered that benefited the other’s career—such as paying for medical school or other advanced education.
Each type of alimony comes with different expectations and legal considerations, and it’s important to work with a knowledgeable attorney to ensure the outcome reflects your financial reality and future needs.
Factors the New Jersey Courts Consider in Determining Alimony
Unlike child support, which follows a more rigid formula, alimony is determined by a set of statutory factors outlined in N.J.S.A. 2A:34-23. These include:
- The length of the marriage
- The age and health of both parties
- The standard of living established during the marriage
- Each party’s earning capacity
- The parties’ respective financial and non-financial contributions to the marriage
- Whether one spouse sacrificed educational or career opportunities for the sake of the household or children
- The financial need of the recipient and the financial ability of the payor
This is not a one-size-fits-all calculation. The same factors can lead to very different outcomes depending on how they apply to the specific facts of your case. At the Law Offices of Kisha M. Hebbon, LLC, we carefully analyze your situation and prepare the strongest possible case to support your position—whether you’re requesting support or defending against an excessive or unjustified demand.
Modifications and Enforcement of Alimony Orders in Somerset
Life doesn’t stop changing after a divorce. A job loss, serious illness, remarriage, or retirement can dramatically alter one’s financial picture. New Jersey law allows for alimony to be modified or terminated when there is a significant change in circumstances. However, these changes must be proven in court, and the burden is on the party requesting the modification to show that the change is substantial, permanent, and not self-inflicted.
We represent clients on both sides of post-divorce alimony issues. Whether you need to seek a reduction in payments or oppose an attempt to decrease or eliminate your support, we will present the necessary evidence and advocate for an outcome that protects your interests.
Enforcing alimony is another critical aspect of our practice. If your former spouse has fallen behind on payments or is willfully avoiding their financial responsibilities, the court can take action to enforce the order. This may include wage garnishment, seizure of assets, or even contempt proceedings. We will take swift, strategic steps to compel compliance and ensure your rights are upheld.
Alimony in High-Income and Complex Divorce Cases
In high-asset divorces or cases involving self-employed individuals and business owners, calculating income for alimony purposes can be especially challenging. Hidden income, fluctuating earnings, and the blending of personal and business expenses can complicate the picture. We work with financial experts, forensic accountants, and other professionals to uncover the full scope of income and assets in order to build an accurate and compelling case.
We also advise clients on the tax implications of alimony. While changes in federal tax law have eliminated the deduction for alimony payments in many cases, New Jersey still treats alimony as taxable income for the recipient and deductible for the payor—unless otherwise specified. Understanding how support will affect your taxes is essential to making informed decisions during settlement negotiations or trial.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Kisha M. Hebbon, LLC
Divorce is never easy, but the lawyer you choose can make a significant difference in how your alimony issues are resolved. At the Law Offices of Kisha M. Hebbon, LLC, we provide candid advice, skilled negotiation, and aggressive representation when needed. We are committed to helping you achieve a fair result that sets the stage for financial security and peace of mind.
Our firm is based in Somerset and is deeply familiar with the local family court system. We use that knowledge to your advantage, offering tailored strategies that are both practical and effective. Whether you are just beginning the divorce process or are facing a dispute over an existing alimony order, we are ready to stand by your side every step of the way.
Contact a Somerset Alimony Lawyer Today
If you are involved in a dispute over alimony or want to understand your rights and obligations, don’t try to navigate the system alone. Contact the Law Offices of Kisha M. Hebbon, LLC, to speak with an experienced Somerset alimony attorney. We will help you evaluate your options, protect your interests, and pursue the support arrangement that best suits your needs. Call today to schedule a confidential consultation and take control of your financial future.
