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Divorce Process in New Jersey

If a couple is considering divorce, they will soon come to find they have many options for how to proceed. Divorce is a very emotional process. Some couples will not be able to decide on issues on their own and must litigate the matter. Other couples may be able to communicate about their divorce outside of a courtroom. The skilled attorneys at Paone Zaleski & Murphy take pride in assisting couples who face marital issues such as equitable distribution, spousal support, child support, and child custody, no matter the type of divorce they choose. When a couple is overwhelmed by their numerous options for divorce, they should consult with an experienced divorce attorney that can help them navigate this uncharted territory. Our firm has over 30 years of experience compassionately representing clients in New Jersey through the divorce process. If you need strong legal representation for a divorce matter, contact Paone Zaleski & Murphy to schedule a consultation today.

New Jersey Lawyers | Assisting Clients Through the Divorce Process

Grounds for Divorce

To officially start the divorce process, the plaintiff must file the Complaint for Divorce. New Jersey is a no-fault divorce state, which enables the parties to file for divorce on the grounds of irreconcilable differences or a separation of at least 18 months. Despite the no-fault options that are most commonly used today, a party still has the option to file for divorce under grounds of fault. These include:

  • Desertion
  • Addiction
  • Adultery
  • Extreme cruelty
  • Deviant sexual conduct
  • Incarceration
  • Institutionalization for mental illness

Case Management Conference

Once the divorce papers have been served, the court will begin to address matters at hand. The Case Management Conference will allow the judge to review the issues of your case and assess the practicality of expediting the process. Throughout the conference, the following will be addressed:

  • Contested issues in the divorce
  • Pre-trial discovery process
  • An Early Settlement Panel date
  • Selection of expert witnesses
  • Determination of whether custody and parenting time are disputed

Early Settlement Panel

If the parties are unable to resolve their matter, the court will refer the case to an Early Settlement Panel. The Panel usually consists of a team of attorneys who will make recommendations to resolve the contested issues. If the parties do not accept the recommendations of the panel, the couple can still try to settle their matter through mediation. Ultimately, if the parties are unable to settle their matter, they will be required to litigate their outstanding contested issues.

Final Judgment of Divorce

In order to complete the divorce, the Final Judgment of Divorce must be executed by the court, regardless of whether the matter has been litigated to conclusion or whether the parties have reached a settlement. If the matter was litigated, both parties have the right to appeal.

Contact our New Jersey Divorce Attorneys for Help through the Process

Paone Zaleski & Murphy has over 30 years of experience representing clients through the divorce process. We understand how emotional and complicated a divorce can be and we are here to help you navigate these waters toward a better future. You deserve quality legal support from a skilled team of representatives. Contact Paone Zaleski & Murphy to schedule a consultation today.

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