Going through a divorce can be a challenging and emotionally draining process. It’s natural to want to keep the reason behind the marriage’s breakdown and other sensitive information about the divorce private. Making the details of the divorce public knowledge can not only harm the two parties involved, but it can also have a detrimental impact on their entire family. Consequently, many couples are curious about what measures they can take to ensure the details of their divorce are kept private. Please continue reading and consider our Monmouth County Mediation services that can help you keep your divorce out of the public record.
What alternative dispute resolutions can help keep the details of my divorce private?
When divorcing, it is understandable to want to keep the details of your divorce private. In most cases, people think that confidential information about their divorce will be kept secret by simply keeping their lips sealed. However, not speaking about your divorce will not prevent your private information from becoming public knowledge.
Generally speaking, most court proceedings, including divorce proceedings, are public, and records can be accessed relatively easily online. Therefore, if anyone is curious about the details of your divorce, they can access copies of all the documents filed in court. They can obtain your settlement agreement stipulating custody, support, and property division determinations.
To prevent this from happening, you should avoid putting your divorce on the public record. Pursuing an alternative dispute resolution method like collaborative divorce or mediation can help you keep the details of your divorce private. Collaborative divorces involve a confidential process where all personal information is kept strictly between you, your former spouse, and your respective attorneys. Similarly, divorce mediation is a confidential process that will help you settle the terms that will apply to the termination of your marriage while keeping it out of the public record. Opting for these alternative divorce methods will ensure that your divorce details are kept under wraps as they allow you to end your marriage while avoiding litigation.
Can I seal my divorce records?
If you feel that an alternative dispute resolution method is not the best option for your specific needs, you can sometimes file a motion to seal the case. Despite being able to request that your divorce records be sealed, the court rarely grants such requests. Most of the time, courts will only agree to seal divorce records when the information regarding the divorce negatively impacts minor children, protects victims of domestic violence, or keeps high-net-worth individuals’ financial information from being revealed. However, if they grant your request, it will keep the details of your divorce out of the public record, ensuring your privacy.
If you want to ensure the details of your divorce are kept private, contact a knowledgeable attorney from Paone Zaleski & Murphy, who can help you consider alternative divorce methods.
