It is best to speak with a divorce lawyer as soon as possible. A New Jersey divorce lawyer can explain the basics of divorce law. They will share an overview of property division, alimony, child custody, and child support. Another important area to cover is the timeline, which will help you understand how long things take.
This is also the time to learn about alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation. This can work well in non-contentious divorces, but high-conflict ones can be more challenging. Your lawyer can advise on which documents to gather.
Pre-divorce allows clients to determine goals and plan out their future without worrying about upcoming filing dates, hearings, and other legal procedures. These conversations can also prepare you for unwelcome surprises.
When Is the Best Time to Divorce?
Every family has different financial and familial needs, so while some divorcing spouses are better off waiting to file, others are advised to do it sooner.
The real estate market can also impact some divorces, particularly when the marital home must be sold. If the house has lost value, selling it at a loss could be detrimental.
A spouse’s job status might also be a concern; unemployment means not having funds to pay for the divorce, alimony, and child support. Some couples wait until the unemployed spouse secures a new job before going forward.
What Are the Grounds for Divorce in New Jersey?
All states require couples to have grounds for divorce, but this does not mean you must share a strong reason with the courts about why your marriage failed. In New Jersey, no-fault divorces can be filed when “irreconcilable differences” exist for six months with no chances of getting back together. The other option is when a married couple has been living apart for at least 18 months straight.
Fault-based divorces are more complicated because one spouse accuses the other of wrongdoing. This could be adultery, physical or mental cruelty, or desertion. It is not unusual for a divorcing spouse to change their mind and decide that the previously uncontested divorce should now be contested. This is another possibility that can be discussed during pre-divorce planning.
Contact a Marlton Divorce Lawyer at Burnham Douglas for Pre-Divorce Planning
The time leading up to a divorce can be confusing, but a skilled Marlton divorce lawyer at Burnham Douglass can help. Call us at 856-751-5505 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Marlton and Northfield, New Jersey, we serve clients in South Jersey, including Evesham Township, Cherry Hill, Camden County, Burlington County, and Atlantic City.