Sterling v. Sterling

KRAFTE, J. J. D. R. C.

(temporarily assigned).

This is a post-judgment application for modification of alimony. The issue presented is the resolution of the time frame within which a standard of living is to be defined, wherein the parties, by agreement, contemplate a “standard” higher than that actually enjoyed during the marriage.

Justice Pashman, speaking for the Supreme Court in Lepis v. Lepis, 83 N.J. 139, 152 (1980), set forth the general rule that “The supporting spouse has a continuing obligation to contribute to the maintenance of the dependent spouse at the standard of living formerly…