New Jersey enforces a new palimony law, S. 2091 which requires that a request for palimony support coming from a “non-marital personal relationship” requires a written agreement.  Whereas before, a couple who lived together in a marital relationship could seek palimony support if such a relationship seizes to exist, now that a claim must rest on more than just an oral palimony agreement. Basically, the new law provides that a palimony agreement is not binding unless it is in writing. It also requires both parties to receive independent advice of a family law attorney before the agreement can become binding. The new law takes effect immediately.

Will there be an incentive to agree to pay palimony support to your significant other? It is likely that family attorneys will now be writing agreements just like prenuptial agreements but without the expected wedding? One thing is for sure, when a long-term marital relationship ends, one party is likely to be at a significant financial disadvantage.