ZEIGLER LAW GROUP, LLC

PROVIDING ELITE DIVORCE SERVICES IN NEW JERSEY

Moorestown Divorce Lawyer

Divorce is a challenging process that involves not only emotional strain but also important legal decisions. Each case requires careful consideration of factors like marital assets, parenting plans, and financial obligations. Individuals going through a divorce typically face uncertainty about how their lives will change and how to handle the legal aspects of dissolving a marriage.

From property division to child custody arrangements, the choices made during a divorce can have lasting consequences. Zeigler Law Group, LLC provides valuable guidance, helping clients understand their rights and responsibilities throughout the process. A Moorestown divorce lawyer helps clients take informed steps to protect their interests and work toward fair outcomes.

What Are the Grounds for Divorce in New Jersey?

New Jersey allows for both fault-based and no-fault grounds for divorce.

In a no-fault divorce, couples can file on the basis of irreconcilable differences, which means the marriage has broken down for at least six months with no reasonable prospect of reconciliation.
Alternatively, couples may choose to file for divorce due to separation, which requires living apart for at least 18 consecutive months prior to filing.

Fault-based grounds for divorce in New Jersey include adultery, extreme cruelty, desertion, and imprisonment. When pursuing a fault-based divorce, the party filing must provide evidence supporting their claims. While fault-based grounds may not always impact property division or spousal support, they can play a role in certain cases, such as those involving custody disputes or financial misconduct.

How Is Property Divided in a Divorce?

New Jersey follows the principle of equitable distribution when dividing marital property. This approach does not necessarily mean assets will be split equally, but rather in a way deemed fair based on various factors. Marital property includes assets and debts acquired during the marriage, while separate property refers to items owned before the marriage or acquired through inheritance or gifts.

Courts consider the duration of the marriage, each party’s income and earning capacity, and contributions to marital assets when dividing property. Additionally, the court may examine the standard of living established during the marriage and the financial needs of each party moving forward. A Moorestown Township divorce lawyer presents clear, comprehensive pictures of clients’ financial situations to achieve fair divisions of property.

How Are Child Custody Arrangements Determined?

Child custody decisions are made with the best interests of the child as the primary consideration. Courts aim to create arrangements that support the child’s physical and emotional well-being while encouraging meaningful relationships with both parents. Custody can be divided into legal custody, which involves decision-making authority, and physical custody, which determines where the child resides.

In most cases, courts encourage shared custody arrangements that allow both parents to remain actively involved in their child’s life. Factors considered in custody decisions include:

Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home environment.
The child’s needs.
The relationship between the child and each parent.
Any history of domestic violence.

What Is the Process for Calculating Child Support?

Child support in New Jersey is calculated based on guidelines established by state law. These guidelines take into account the income of both parents, the number of children involved, and the amount of time each parent spends with the children. The goal is to provide financial support that meets the child’s needs and maintains their standard of living.

Child support may cover expenses such as housing, food, clothing, education, and healthcare. Courts also have the discretion to deviate from the guidelines when unique circumstances arise, such as a child with special needs or significant differences in parental incomes. A Moorestown Township divorce lawyer can explain how these guidelines apply to your case and address any disputes that may arise regarding support calculations.

Can Spousal Support Be Awarded in a Divorce?

Spousal support, also known as alimony, is financial assistance provided by one spouse to the other during or after a divorce. To determine this, courts in New Jersey consider the length of the marriage, the age and health of each spouse, and their respective incomes and earning capacities.

New Jersey recognizes different types of spousal support, including open durational alimony, rehabilitative alimony, limited duration alimony, and reimbursement alimony. Each serves a specific purpose, such as providing financial stability or supporting a spouse as they pursue education or career opportunities.

How Long Does the Divorce Process Take?

The timeline for a divorce in New Jersey depends on the complexity of the issues involved and the level of agreement between the parties. An uncontested divorce, where both spouses agree on all terms, can be resolved relatively quickly, often within a few months. In contrast, a contested divorce may take significantly longer, especially if disputes arise over property division, child custody, or support matters.

The divorce process typically begins with the filing of a complaint for divorce, followed by the exchange of information during the discovery phase. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement through negotiation or mediation, the case may proceed to trial. A Moorestown Township divorce lawyer can guide you through each stage of the process, addressing any challenges that arise and working toward a resolution.

What Role Does Mediation Play in Divorce?

Mediation is a collaborative process in which a neutral third party helps divorcing spouses resolve disputes outside of court. This approach can be particularly beneficial for addressing issues such as property division, child custody, and support arrangements. Mediation allows both parties to have a voice in the decision-making process and often leads to outcomes that reflect their unique needs and priorities.

While mediation is not appropriate for every case, it can be a valuable tool for those seeking to avoid the time, expense, and emotional strain of litigation. This option, along with others, can be discussed during our free consultation.