When it comes to alimony, one size does not fit all. Spousal support aims to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a standard of living similar to that of the couple during the marriage. Different types of alimony exist, and each is designed to address specific circumstances.
Limited Duration Alimony
This type of alimony is awarded for a specific period, determined by the length of the marriage or other factors. It is meant to help the spouse transition to financial independence, and the payments end when the time period expires.
Open Durational Alimony
This type of alimony is typically awarded when a marriage has lasted for a long period (usually 20 years or more). It has no set end date, and the alimony payments can continue indefinitely, though they can be modified based on changes in circumstances.
Rehabilitative Alimony
Rehabilitative alimony is awarded to help a spouse become self-sufficient after a divorce. It is also paid for a specific period, during which the recipient spouse is expected to complete education, training, or employment experience to improve their earning potential.
Rehabilitative alimony is commonly used when one spouse has been out of the workforce for an extended period or has limited job skills. The goal is to support the recipient spouse during a transitional period and allow them to regain financial independence.
Reimbursement Alimony
Reimbursement alimony is awarded when one spouse has made financial contributions to the other spouse’s education or career, which enabled them to increase their earning potential. This type of alimony is designed to reimburse the spouse who made the contributions. It does not have the same ongoing payment structure as other types of alimony, and it is typically awarded as a one-time payment or for a short period.
Pendente Lite Alimony
Pendente lite alimony is awarded while a divorce is pending. It provides financial assistance to the lower-earning spouse during the divorce process before the final divorce decree is issued. This alimony is usually paid for a set period, typically until the divorce is finalized or until a permanent alimony arrangement is determined.
Can Alimony Be Modified or Terminated?
In some cases, alimony may be modified or terminated if there is a significant change in circumstances. The court must approve any modifications, which is why having a lawyer on your side is essential.
Experienced Whitehouse Divorce Lawyers at Tune Law Group, LLC Help Clients Reach Fair, Equitable Agreements
If you are facing alimony issues during a divorce, the experienced Whitehouse divorce lawyers at Tune Law Group, LLC are here to help. We can provide guidance on the different types of alimony and assist you in reaching a fair and equitable arrangement. For a free consultation, call 908-434-1061 or complete our online form. Located in Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, we serve clients in and around Hunterdon County, Monmouth County, Whitehouse, and Tewksbury.