Spousal Misconduct May Bar Alimony in NJ

In New Jersey, spousal misconduct is typically no bar to receipt of alimony to that spouse even in the event of adultery or significant depletion of the parties' funds. In Mani v Mani, 183 N.J 70 (2005) the NJ Supreme Court set forth two exceptions to this rule pertaining to financial matters between the parties. One exception is where the conduct of a spouse "affects the parties' economic life." The second exception comes into play when the actions of a spouse "so violate societal norms that continuing the economic bonds between the parties would confound notions of simple justice." If you are seeking a divorce and know or strongly believe your spouse's behavior has drastically altered your lifestyle financially you should speak with an experienced family law attorney immediately to protect your rights. For more information on alimony, support, equitable distribution, child support, palimony, divorce, dissolution of civil union or domestic partnership or other family law matters in New Jersey visit HeatherDarlingLawyer.com. This blog is for informational purposes only and in no way intended to replace the advice of an attorney regarding your specific matter.