WHAT TO EXPECT DURING DIVORCE: MEN'S EDITION
DOWNLOAD EBOOKDivorce is a significant life event, often accompanied by a whirlwind of emotions and legal complexities. Whether you’re seeking fair custody arrangements, equitable distribution of assets, or protection from unfair financial demands, we will work closely with you to tailor a legal strategy that meets your needs.
At [MFR] Men’s & Fathers’ Rights Divorce Lawyers, we’re your partners in securing your rights and ensuring your voice is heard. We understand that your circumstances, priorities, and goals are unique. By listening and understanding your unique situation, we can tailor our legal strategies to align with your needs, ensuring the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Schedule a confidential case evaluation today at (201) 880-9770 to learn how we can help you with your divorce case.
Our mission is to level the playing field and ensure you get the fair share you deserve.
What Is the Difference Between Contested and Uncontested Divorce?
Divorce can be complex and emotionally taxing. In New Jersey, divorces are generally categorized into two types: contested and uncontested, each with its characteristics and implications.
Contested Divorce
This occurs when spouses cannot agree on one or more key issues involved in ending their marriage. These issues typically include child custody, child support, alimony, division of property, and debt allocation. When disagreements arise, the case must go through the formal litigation process, which often involves discovery (exchange of information), mediation, and potentially a trial before a judge who will make the final decisions.
The contested divorce process can be lengthy, stressful, and costly due to the extensive legal work required. It often necessitates multiple court appearances, negotiations between attorneys, and possibly testimonies from experts or witnesses. While a contested divorce may seem adversarial, it sometimes becomes necessary to ensure a fair and just outcome, particularly in complex cases involving significant assets, contentious custody disputes, or accusations of misconduct.
Uncontested Divorce
On the other hand, an uncontested divorce is when both spouses agree on all major aspects of their separation. This agreement includes consensus on child custody, visitation schedules, child and spousal support, and the division of property and debts. Because both parties agree, the divorce process tends to be faster, less expensive, and more amicable than a contested divorce.
In an uncontested divorce, the couple typically drafts a marital settlement agreement, which states the terms of their divorce. This agreement is then submitted to the court for approval. Once reviewed and accepted by the judge, the divorce can be finalized without needing a trial. This streamlined process saves time and money and reduces the emotional strain often associated with divorce proceedings.
Grounds for Filing a Divorce
New Jersey operates under a no-fault divorce system, where neither party needs to prove wrongdoing to obtain a divorce. This simplifies divorce proceedings by removing the necessity for blame.
However, New Jersey does recognize several other grounds for divorce:
- Adultery: If one spouse can provide evidence of adultery, such as witness testimony or photographs, the injured spouse can file for divorce on these grounds.
- Desertion: A spouse’s abandoning the other for at least 12 continuous months without justification constitutes desertion. The abandoned spouse must prove the intent to end the marriage and lack of support or communication during this period.
- Extreme Cruelty: Physical or mental cruelty endangering the injured spouse’s health or safety qualifies as extreme cruelty. Proof of severe and ongoing abuse causing fear for safety allows for divorce on these grounds.
- Separation: Living apart for 18 consecutive months with no prospect of reconciliation constitutes separation. However, this requires a physical separation and attempts at reconciliation or sexual activity reset the separation period.
- Irreconcilable Differences: This refers to a breakdown of the marriage that cannot be resolved and has persisted for at least six months. This indicates that the spouses have faced significant issues or conflicts, making the continuation of the marriage untenable. No evidence or proof is required to establish irreconcilable differences as grounds for divorce.
Why Choose MFR Divorce Lawyers?
Choosing the right divorce lawyer is essential and can significantly impact the outcome of your case. At MFR Divorce Lawyers, we understand the unique challenges of divorce proceedings. Here are several reasons to choose us:
1. Specialized Expertise
Our firm focuses on divorce cases and is well-versed in the laws and precedents in matters such as child custody, visitation, and asset division. We have a proven track record of successfully advocating for our client’s rights in divorce and family law matters.
2. Accessibility and Convenience
We strive to make the legal process as accessible and convenient as possible for our clients. With multiple communication channels available, including phone, email, and in-person consultations, we make it easy to get the legal assistance you need when you need it.
3. Proactive Representation
Our proactive approach to representation means we anticipate challenges and opportunities in your case and take steps to address them. We are always one step ahead, working diligently to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
4. Client-Centered Approach
Our clients are our top priority. We are dedicated to providing them with the highest service and representation possible. We take the time to listen to their concerns, understand their goals, and develop legal strategies tailored to their unique needs and objectives.
5. Aggressive Advocacy
When protecting your rights, we are relentless advocates. We fight to ensure you receive fair treatment in all aspects of your divorce, from custody and visitation to asset division and support arrangements. Our lawyers are skilled litigators and negotiators who will stand up for your rights in and out of the courtroom.
How We Can Help With Your Case
Here’s how we can help with your case:
- Understanding Your Situation: The first step in handling your case is thoroughly understanding your unique circumstances. During your initial case evaluation, our lawyers will listen to your concerns and objectives, review the specifics of your situation, including any existing court orders or agreements, and assess the legal issues you are facing and the potential challenges ahead.
- Child Custody and Visitation Rights: Securing a fair and reasonable child custody and visitation arrangement is often one of the most critical aspects of a divorce. We will advocate for your rights as a parent and ensure that your relationship with your children is preserved. Our attorneys will work to negotiate and litigate custody arrangements that serve your children’s best interests while maintaining parental rights.
- Fair Child and Spousal Support Arrangements: Financial arrangements such as child and spousal support can significantly impact your financial stability. We help ensure these arrangements are fair and accurately reflect your financial situation. If modifications are needed due to changes in circumstances, we will assist you in seeking adjustments that align with your current needs.
- Equitable Property Division: Dividing marital assets and debts can be one of the most contentious parts of a divorce. We aim to ensure that your property is divided equitably, considering your contributions and future needs. We will fight to protect your financial interests and help you secure a fair share of the marital estate.
- Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements: If you have a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement or need assistance drafting one, our attorneys are here to help. We can ensure these agreements are fair, enforceable, and reflect your interests. A clear agreement can provide peace of mind and clarity for both parties.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Divorce in New Jersey?
There’s no fixed length for a divorce case. The time frame for obtaining a divorce can vary based on different factors, such as the complexity of the case and whether it’s contested or uncontested.
New Jersey doesn’t impose a mandatory waiting period for divorce. This means that once a Complaint for Divorce is filed, the court can grant the divorce as soon as all necessary paperwork is completed and all divorce-related matters are resolved.
Contact Our Cranbury, NJ, Divorce Lawyer
If you are facing a divorce in Cranbury, NJ, and need a lawyer who understands and prioritizes your rights, contact MFR divorce lawyers today. Our divorce lawyers in Cranbury, NJ, are ready to offer the dedicated and experienced representation you deserve.
Contact MFR divorce lawyers today at (201) 880-9770 to schedule a confidential case evaluation. Let us provide the strong advocacy and compassionate support you need to protect what matters most.
Carrie S. Schultz, Esq.
Thank you for visiting our site. We realize that if you are reading this, you or someone you know is having marital or family difficulties. We truly understand how unsettling that can be for all involved. I personally want to invite you to explore the website which contains a lot of informational and educational items which I hope is of benefit to you. I also welcome you to contact us to schedule a case evaluation to discuss your matter in greater detail. Our firm philosophy is to always remain committed to providing our clients with the best service, care, guidance, communication, and legal advice possible for your particular situation. We take seriously you entrusting us with your legal matter. Happy researching!
