Welcome to Lawrence H. Bloom, Esq.’s website. The Spousal Support page provides information regarding New York and New Jersey’s Alimony/Spousal Support laws (In New York, spousal support is called maintenance; in New Jersey, it is called alimony) and the factors used to determine eligibility and payments. With more than 30 years of successful experience in Family Law, we have effectively handled domestic matters related to divorce, division of assets, alimony, child support, custody and visitation. In support and alimony issues, a thorough investigation of the couple’s finances helps to establish the amount and terms of support payments. We know how to uncover hidden assets and assess the “real” value of a business, profession and other marital assets. The Lawrence H. Bloom firm has the resources to gather information related to stock options, deferred compensation plans, real estate, brokerage accounts, and tax planning devices. By equipping our clients with a detailed picture of finances, we can negotiate the best financial terms and standard of living.
Under State laws, a married couple has a duty to economically support each other; and this duty does not end because the husband and wife separate. The needier spouse, whether it is the wife or the husband, may claim support from the other at any time up to the final divorce is granted. The Family Law Firm of Lawrence H. Bloom will discuss with you whether and when an application for “pendente lite” support should be made during the course of the divorce action itself.
The court determines spousal support based on the couple’s respective needs and ability to pay. Other factors considered in support awards include the duration of marriage, standard of living, earnings abilities, health, each partner’s age, length of absence from the job market, future income potential, and the welfare of minor children.
There are essentially two types of alimony:
- Limited duration, or temporary alimony (sometimes also called Rehabilitative, Restitutional or Reimbursement), provides economic assistance for a limited time. In this situation, the court considers the length of time that it would reasonably take the recipient to improve their earning capacity to the point where temporary alimony is no longer required. Payments are terminated if the recipient remarries.
- Permanent alimony is a long-term order to provide support to the recipient, potentially until the death of the party receiving the alimony. It is usually awarded when a spouse is unable to work due to age or physical or mental illness. Payments are terminated if the recipient remarries.
The firm has experience in drafting language to make sure that the payments of spousal support are deductible to the paying spouse on that spouse’s income tax returns. We also make sure, when representing the spouse receiving support, that there is life insurance or other security in place in the event of the death of the paying spouse.
Lawrence H. Bloom has specialized in Family Law for more than two decades. During this time, he has witnessed the best and worst in people, and handled some of the most difficult matrimonial disputes including child custody, support and other domestic relations matters. He uses his invaluable insight into human relationships to better understand and serve his clients. The firm’s reputation is based on a balance of legal expertise, sensitivity to client’s needs and the aggressive representation of clients’ financial interests and welfare.
The help of a skilled attorney during the divorce process can make a valuable difference in support payments and related divorce issues. The Lawrence H. Bloom firm can offer proactive advice based on years of experience in the Family Law judicial system. We can help you work harmoniously with your spouse towards an amicable divorce. Call us in New York at (212) 964-3502 or New Jersey at (201) 925-8148. We can also be reached via email at Larry@divorcebybloom.com.
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