Legislators in New Jersey have concluded a two-year overhaul to the state’s alimony laws. This comes after a storm of protest from numerous men and women in the state. According to an Joan Quigley of The Jersey Journal, the men and women advocating for change were the ones paying alimony to ex-spouses.
Unfortunately, proponents of the proposed changes remain unhappy with legislators. If the bill is signed into law as is, it will actually end up not applying to these people, which Quigley suggested is the reason for their continued outrage. To clarify, the new legislation would only affect alimony payments established after the new bill takes effect. Those who are currently paying alimony, or those who start paying it before the new legislation is signed into law, will operate as-is.
Paris Eliades, the President of the New Jersey State Bar Association, said the entire process has been like a divorce itself. “Like in any divorce, we ultimately achieved a resolution where not everyone has gotten what they wanted.” After this two-year struggle, the bill now goes on to governor Chris Christie for approval or veto.
Changes included in the bill are an end to permanent alimony, more flexibility in alimony changes, and other stipulations that the paid spouse must abide by. Regardless of any changes to New Jersey alimony laws, the attorneys at the Law Office of Andrew A. Bestafka, Esq., are committed to representing the interests of our clients during their divorce and may be able to help you. If you have any questions or wish to discuss your situation, call our offices at (732) 898-2378 today.