Ask Cassie

Dear Cassie: How does the court resolve a custody dispute? -L.K. Dear L.K.: In determining custody of a child, a court is always controlled by the child’s best interests. New Jersey has a custody statute, N.J.S.A. 9:2-4, which identifies several factors a court shall consider when evaluating what custody arrangements…

Dear Cassie: If I am divorcing but not yet divorced, does this change how I file my income taxes? Also, do I have to file jointly with my spouse? -M.M. Dear M.M.: A divorce, in and of itself, does not affect your tax filing status. So long as you are…

Dear Cassie: I am in the process of going through a divorce. My wife now wants to make a number of repairs to our home (and to have me contribute to these costs).  Do I have to pay for these repairs?  -J.L. Dear J.L:   Generally speaking, the court will seek…

Dear Cassie: I am divorced. My spouse has enrolled our children in a very expensive summer camp this summer.  Do I have to pay for it?  -L.P. Dear L.P.:  The first question that must be answered is, what does your Marital Settlement Agreement or Judgment of Divorce say about the…

Dear Cassie: I’ve obviously heard of restraining orders, but what can you tell me about how restraining orders actually work in New Jersey?  -A.S. Dear A.S.:   Restraining orders in New Jersey (whether temporary or permanent) are issued under a law called the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act.  That Act protects…

Dear Cassie: What are the grounds for an annulment, as opposed to a divorce, in New Jersey? -M.M. Dear M.M.:   Annulments (also known as “judgments of nullity”) can be granted for the following reasons: Either of the parties is already married at the time of the marriage. The parties are…