Breaking Down the Basics of Divorce in New Jersey

Divorce can be tough, and knowing the specifics for your state helps a lot. This page gives you the key details about divorce in New Jersey. You’ll find more resources and links for deeper understanding too.

Divorce Laws in New Jersey

In New Jersey, you can file for divorce without blaming anyone (no-fault) or by stating someone is at fault. To file, you or your spouse must have lived in New Jersey for at least a year.

Unlike some states, New Jersey doesn’t have a fixed waiting period before your divorce can be finalized. The state’s approach offers flexibility, understanding that every situation is unique.

Process of Filing for Divorce

Filing for divorce in New Jersey starts with choosing the right forms. These forms depend on your divorce type. You file them at your county’s courthouse.

After filing, you need to ‘serve’ the papers to your spouse, following New Jersey’s rules. This process might differ a bit from other states, but it’s all about making sure everyone knows what’s happening.

Get a more detailed overview of the process in How to File for Divorce in New Jersey

Child Custody and Support

When it comes to kids, New Jersey looks at what’s best for them. This means decisions about who they live with and how they’re supported are based on their needs. The state uses specific guidelines to figure out support payments. These rules focus on the child’s well-being and are tailored to New Jersey’s unique approach.

Alimony/Spousal Support

In New Jersey, alimony depends on several factors. These include how long you were married, your financial situation, and what each person needs. The court looks at these details to make a fair decision.

Property Division

When you get divorced in New Jersey, your property is divided fairly, but not always equally. This means the court looks at what’s fair for both people, which might not be a 50/50 split.

Resources

To learn more, check out these links! They’ll take you to New Jersey’s family law courts, government resources, and places where you can get legal help.

How Much Does a Divorce Cost in NJ?

NJ Divorce Forms

Core Forms:

• Complaint for Divorce: https://www.njcourts.gov/self-help/divorce/responding-complaint
• Case Information Statement: https://www.njcourts.gov/sites/default/files/forms/10482_fam_cis.pdf
• Certification of Self-Represented Litigant and Dispute Resolution Alternatives: https://www.njcourts.gov/sites/default/files/forms/10889_cert_by_lit.pdf
• Confidential Litigant Information Sheet: https://www.njcourts.gov/sites/default/files/forms/10486_conf_lit_info_sheet.pdf
• Acknowledgement of Service: https://www.njcourts.gov/self-help/forms

Additional Forms:

• Affidavit of Proof of Service: https://www.njcourts.gov/self-help/forms
• Case Management Order: https://www.njd.uscourts.gov/case-management-orders
• Final Judgment of Divorce: https://www.njcourts.gov/faq/how-do-i-obtain-copy-final-judgment-divorce

Optional Forms:

• Financial Disclosure Statement: https://www.nj.gov/dca/dlgs/resources/fds.shtml
• Proposed Parenting Plan: https://www.njcourts.gov/sites/default/files/forms/11904_parenting_time.pdf

Resources:

• Divorce Forms and Instructions: https://www.njcourts.gov/self-help/forms
• Self-Help Center: https://www.njcourts.gov/self-help
• NJ Courts Family Part Website: https://www.njcourts.gov/courts/family

Disclaimer

Remember, this page is just a guide. It’s not legal advice. For specific advice, it’s always best to talk to a lawyer.