Divorce can be a stressful, emotional, and challenging process for anyone, but when it comes to women in New Jersey, it can be particularly difficult. With that in mind, we have put together a list of tips for women who are considering or going through a divorce in New Jersey, in the hopes of making the process a little smoother and less daunting.
Understand New Jersey’s Divorce Laws
The first thing any woman in New Jersey considering divorce should do is familiarize themselves with the state’s divorce laws. New Jersey is a "no-fault" divorce state, which means that neither party needs to prove that the other is at fault to file for divorce. Instead, couples may file for divorce based on "irreconcilable differences" or if they have lived separate and apart from one another for at least 18 consecutive months.
New Jersey law also requires that couples must have been married for at least six months before they can file for divorce. Additionally, New Jersey is an equitable distribution state, meaning that marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally.
Hire an Experienced Divorce Attorney
One of the most important steps you can take as a woman going through a divorce in New Jersey is to hire an experienced divorce attorney. Your lawyer will be your advocate throughout the process and will be able to provide you with invaluable advice and guidance.
When choosing an attorney, it’s important to find someone who has experience working with divorces in New Jersey. You should also look for someone who makes you feel comfortable, communicates well, and is responsive to your needs.
Gather Financial Documents
In order to ensure that you receive a fair settlement in your divorce, it’s important to gather all of the necessary financial documents, such as tax returns, bank statements, and investment portfolios. This information will help your attorney negotiate a fair settlement and ensure that you receive your fair share of marital assets.
Consider Mediation or Collaborative Divorce
In some cases, mediation or collaborative divorce may be a good option for women in New Jersey going through a divorce. These alternative dispute resolution methods can be less expensive and less adversarial than traditional divorce litigation.
In mediation, a neutral third-party mediator helps the couple reach a mutually agreed-upon settlement, while collaborative divorce involves attorneys and other professionals working together to reach a settlement that works for both parties.
Take Care of Yourself
Divorce can put a significant amount of stress and pressure on anyone, but it’s important to take care of yourself during this difficult time. Be sure to take time for self-care, whether that means exercise, meditation, or spending time with friends and family.
Joining a support group for women going through divorces in New Jersey might be helpful. Remember, taking care of yourself physically and mentally will help you better navigate the challenges of the divorce process.
Conclusion
Divorce is never easy, but by following these tips, women in New Jersey can make the process a little more manageable. Remember to take care of yourself, hire an experienced divorce attorney, familiarize yourself with New Jersey’s divorce laws, and consider alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation or collaborative divorce. By doing so, you can more easily move on to the next chapter of your life.