DIVORCE AND LEGAL SEPARATION
New Jersey Divorce Attorneys
Contemplating a Divorce
Whether you are first considering a divorce in New Jersey or you have already decided to obtain a divorce, make certain that you retain an experienced New Jersey divorce attorney to represent your interests. The divorce process can be difficult both emotionally and legally so you should learn about all available options. For instance, you may elect to file a Complaint for Divorce to initiate the process in the court system or you may instead choose to first negotiate a divorce agreement to resolve all issues between you and your spouse. This agreement will include such items as alimony, child custody, visitation, child support, distribution of assets and debts, etc. Before you begin the process, take the time to read my article that explains how to start the divorce process.
Deciding if a Legal Separation is Best
If you are unhappy in your marital relationship, but uncertain as to whether or not you want to obtain a divorce at this time, you may choose to legally separate from your spouse. If you pursue a legal separation, you and your spouse can still have a settlement agreement prepared and executed. This agreement will identify each of your rights and responsibilities including who will be the residential parent, how visitation will be handled, payment of child support and obligations for real property and bills. Obtaining a legal separation does not involve filing an application or Complaint with the court. A legal separation simply involves determining the child, financial and personal aspects of your matter until such time that you decide to reconcile your relationship or formally proceed with a divorce.
Domestic Partnership Dissolution
Dissolving a domestic partnership is different than obtaining a traditional divorce or legal separation in New Jersey. The Domestic Partnership Act governs the dissolution process and calls for a similar but alternative means by which to terminate your relationship. In order to proceed, you will file a Complaint for dissolution of your domestic partnership with the NJ family courts, similar to a traditional Complaint for divorce. However, your attorney must understand the restrictions imposed before acting because there are distinct differences between a traditional divorce and the dissolution of a domestic partnership.
The Mediation Alternative
If you are looking for an amicable way to resolve all of your issues related to a divorce, legal separation or dissolution of a domestic partnership, mediation is an alternative dispute resolution that you should consider. Through mediation, you can still address all of your issues related to child custody, visitation, child support, alimony, property division, etc. without the need to involve the courts. This process puts you and your spouse firmly in control of the outcome as opposed to leaving it up to a judge to make the final determinations.
Post-Judgment Matters
If you are already divorced or you have dissolved your domestic partnership, but still have legal issues that must be addressed, then your matter is considered a post judgment matter. There are a number of reasons which might cause you to seek post-judgment relief, such as increasing or decreasing support obligations, changing custody or parenting time arrangements or enforcing an already existing court order. No matter which situation applies to you, make certain to speak to one of our experienced New Jersey divorce attorneys so that you can be advised about all required elements necessary in order for you to seek changes or enforcement through the New Jersey family courts.
When you speak to one of our experienced and trusted New Jersey divorce attorneys, you can be certain that your inquiry will be met with sincere concern for your family’s welfare and with the utmost confidentiality. Our lawyers and staff are committed to helping you through this difficult process with the least amount of stress and anxiety possible and in the most economical way available for your specific circumstances.
Contact us today for your FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION and learn why our clients refer their most beloved friends and family to our New Jersey divorce and family law firm so we can help them with their family law issues.
