Talk With an Attorney About Divorce Proceedings
At the Law Offices of Daniel K. Newman, in Voorhees, New Jersey, we help people throughout South Jersey get through the divorce process with as little hardship as possible. Our goal is to protect your interests by helping you make smart decisions in a difficult time.
Divorce is a complicated process, both emotionally and financially. Whether or not you are sure that you want to end your marriage, it helps to know what to expect from the New Jersey divorce process.
Beginning the Divorce Procedure — Filing a Complaint
Divorce litigation begins with filing a complaint with the correct New Jersey court. The law requires that certain information be included in the complaint, such as the addresses of both spouses and, if you have children, their addresses and dates of birth. The complaint must also list any factors that constitute grounds for divorce.
Once the complaint is filed, the other spouse is given a set amount of time to respond by filing an answer and/or counterclaim. Because of this time limit, it is important that you contact an attorney as soon as possible if you have been served with a complaint.
Your Case Information Statement
If issues of child custody, child support, alimony or equitable distribution of marital property exist in your divorce, you will probably be required to file a very important document called a Case Information Statement (CIS). The CIS lists all of the property you own and all of your debts — your assets and liabilities — and must be supported by financial information like tax returns, pay stubs and pension statements. Your spouse will most likely be required to file one as well.
The litigation process then continues with a case management conference. Each side then makes motions for discovery of more information. A hearing is sometimes scheduled to discuss temporary orders, like who will take care of the children while the divorce is pending and whether temporary alimony is necessary. If the issues of the divorce are not settled during this process, you will probably proceed to trial where a judge will decide the issues.
In New Jersey, there is a great deal of pressure for divorce cases to settle. But even if you and your spouse agree about the issues involved in your divorce, a judge's final order and decree of divorce will still be necessary to finalize your divorce.
Divorce is Complex. Seek a Lawyer's Help.
The divorce process can be complicated, and it is often difficult to know what to expect. At the Law Offices of Daniel K. Newman, we work hard to help our clients understand exactly what will happen so that they are well prepared to make smart decisions about their options.
To talk with us about your situation, call us at (856) 309-9007, (877) 309-9007 or complete or online form. Consultations are free and confidential.
