ow the Best Divorce Lawyer in New Jersey Help Their Clients

We understand that family is everything for us. Nonetheless, many of us both intentionally and unintentionally hurt our spouses to the extreme level that leads the marriage to an end, known as divorce.

Divorce is an emotionally difficult and legally complex process. The laws vary from state to state. If you’re considering ending your marriage in New Jersey, you need to know the ins and outs of divorce law in this state. The best divorce lawyer in New Jersey can assist you in getting familiar with the key aspects of divorce law, fight the legal battle for you, and make it in your favor.

Legal Separation Vs. Divorce

In some cases, couples consider legal separation as an alternative to divorce. While a legal separation allows spouses to live separately and address issues such as child custody and support, it does not legally end the marriage. A divorce lawyer (also known as a family lawyer, as divorce comes under family law) can help you better understand the differences between legal separation and divorce and make the right decision based on your circumstances.

Different Grounds of Divorce in New Jersey

Consulting with the best divorce lawyer in New Jersey can make you understand the specific requirements and implications of each ground for divorce effortlessly. In general, there are two different types of grounds for divorce in which one spouse can legally divorce the other.

No-Fault Grounds

Irreconcilable Differences: It is the most common no-fault ground for divorce in New Jersey. It means that the marriage has broken down with no reasonable chance of reconciliation.

Fault-Based Grounds

• Adultery: If one spouse engages in voluntary sexual relations with somebody except their spouse, it can be grounds for divorce.

• Desertion: If one spouse willfully and voluntarily leaves the marital home with the intention of deserting the other for at least 12 consecutive months.

• Extreme Cruelty: Physical or mental cruelty that poses a threat to the safety or health of the other spouse can be grounds for divorce.

• Separation: If the spouses have lived apart in separate residences for at least 18 consecutive months with no reasonable prospect of reconciliation.

• Voluntary Addiction to Narcotic Drugs: If one spouse is willingly and habitually using narcotic drugs, this addiction significantly serves as grounds for divorce.

• Habitual Drunkenness: If one spouse is consistently and excessively intoxicated due to alcohol consumption, it can be grounds for divorce.

• Institutionalization for Mental Illness: If one spouse is institutionalized for mental illness for a specific period, and the mental illness is severe enough to impact the marital relationship.

• Imprisonment: If one spouse is convicted and sentenced to a significant period of detention, it may serve as grounds for divorce.

How Does the Best Divorce Lawyer in New Jersey Help Their Clients?

Property Division

In dividing marital property, the New Jersey Family Court adheres to the principle of equitable distribution. This means the court divides assets and debts acquired during the marriage fairly but not necessarily equally. The court considers other factors too presented to them by each party’s lawyers, such as marriage duration, each spouse’s contributions, and their respective financial situations.

Alimony

Alimony, or spousal support, may be awarded to either party based on factors like the marriage duration, standard of living during the marriage, and each spouse’s financial and non-financial contributions. The goal of alimony is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a reasonably comparable standard of living post-divorce.

Child Custody and Support

When it comes to child custody, the family court prioritizes the best interests of the child. It may grant joint or sole custody, taking into account factors like the child’s age, health, and the parent’s ability to provide a stable environment. Child support is determined using state guidelines and factors such as each parent’s income, childcare expenses, and the child’s needs.

Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution

A reputable family lawyer encourages alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation to resolve divorce issues amicably. It involves a neutral third party, enabling discussions between spouses to reach mutually agreeable solutions. Choosing mediation can expedite the divorce process and reduce the emotional toll for each party involved.

Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders

Domestic violence is a grave concern in divorce cases. Professional divorce lawyers provide legal protections through restraining orders, allowing victims to seek court-ordered protection against abusive spouses.

Modifications and Enforcement

Post-divorce, circumstances may change, requiring modifications to support orders, custody arrangements, or alimony agreements. The court can grant modifications based on substantial changes in circumstances. Additionally, enforcing court orders may be necessary if one of the spouses fails to comply with the terms of the divorce order.

Last Words

While the divorce process can be emotionally challenging, being well-informed about New Jersey’s divorce laws can empower people to make the best choices for their future. By considering alternative dispute resolution methods and seeking professional guidance from the best divorce lawyer, individuals can strive for an amicable resolution.