Common Grounds for Divorce

Every person is different, which would mean every marriage is different—as well as every divorce; New Jersey divorce law was written with that in mind.  There are ten possible grounds someone can use to file for divorce, the most common grounds being separation, extreme cruelty, and the often used irreconcilable differences.

When declaring your grounds for divorce in New Jersey, it’s important to make sure your claims can be substantiated. For example, using “separation” as your grounds is only possible if the couple has been apart for 18 months or more; proof of the physical separation would obviously have to be given.

Reasons for divorce vary, and the definition of the legal grounds can be interpreted differently and applied to fit each individual divorce situation. “Extreme cruelty,” for example, is one of the grounds commonly used by plaintiffs when filing, or by defendants who are responding. The ground of extreme cruelty can  mean daily verbal/physical abuse, or a lack of emotional support.

“Irreconcilable differences” is used as grounds in New Jersey divorce proceedings when the couple does not want to file with any blame pointed at the other spouse. There are situations when the marriage is simply over despite best efforts being made by both spouses.

Beginning the End of Your Marriage

No one gets married and assumes they will one day have to deal with divorce, but sometimes, unfortunately, despite your best efforts and intentions, the marriage is over; so you’re getting divorced…now what? Starting the divorce process can be overwhelming for a lot of people, but with a basic knowledge of the system and the general process, you can save yourself unnecessary stress and concentrate on what is really important—healing.

Most people look into the New Jersey divorce process with tons of questions about the overall cost, status of their finances, and how to begin what—at first glance—seems like a complicated and involved process.  Divorce is difficult enough without the added legal headaches; if there is a positive side to be seen, it is that skilled  New Jersey Divorce lawyers can painlessly guide you through this process.

The divorce process officially begins when one spouse files a “Complaint for Divorce” document, making them the “plaintiff,” and the other spouse, the “defendant,” files a response (which could mean filing for divorce on their own set of grounds).

The New Jersey Divorce process seems more complicated than it actually is. Divorce means changes for you and your family, and the decision to end your marriage comes with a lot of thought and personal reflection. Caring professionals will be able to assist you with the legal proceedings with sensitivity; contact Weinberger Divorce & Family Law Group, LLC for more information on how to start the process and get your family looking toward the future.