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10 Things to Know Before Divorcing

Choosing whether or not to end a marriage is a highly significant decision which deserves considerable thought and counsel. The Monmouth County divorce lawyer at the Law Office of August J. Landi consistently provides legal insight and advice to those considering divorce and has done so for decades.

The following are ten pieces of advice for those thinking out obtaining a divorce so you are fully aware of what may happen along the way. Speak with the firm for further advice and answers to your questions about the divorce process in New Jersey.

  1. A divorce will require you and your spouse to settle your financial relationship which means distributing all property the two of you have obtained during your marriage, along with creating a plan governing how access to any children will be regulated if you do not wish the court to handle this.
  2. It can be helpful to seek out professional counseling during and after your divorce to deal with the natural reactions common to divorce such as anger, grief, and depression.
  3. To the extent to which you interact with your attorney, you should try to treat your divorce as the end of a business arrangement so you do not end up having emotions dictate your actions and impact how you make decisions. This can expedite the process and save you money in the long run.
  4. Although you can seek a divorce under fault or no-fault grounds in New Jersey, in the vast majority of cases it is simpler to file under no-fault grounds rather than risk causing an emotional battle with your spouse.
  5. It is highly recommended that you seek out legal representation during your divorce rather than attempt to go it alone. An attorney understands how divorce works in New Jersey and has a much better chance of resolving your case and achieve the results you are looking for, especially with your children and assets on the line.
  6. For divorces in Monmouth County, you will be expected to attend a two-hour presentation of how divorces affect children which underscores the need to facilitate communication with children during and after the divorce.
  7. The only alternatives to the standard divorce are mediation and binding arbitration which may work for those couples who have already set the terms for dividing their assets.
  8. While the vast majority of divorces are settled before making it to trial, Monmouth County expects your attorney to be present for Case Management Conferences to keep the court up to date on your case’s progress.
  9. You and your spouse will each need to fill out a Case Information Statement for the court which requires precise information regarding your economic situation including your lifestyle expenses, assets, liabilities, income, healthcare costs, etc.
  10. Having doubts and second thoughts about moving forward with a divorce are natural. Consulting with an attorney and therapist before taking such a crucial step is highly advised.
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