Filing for divorce can be a stressful and emotional process. Whether you and your spouse have been together for a short time or have been married for years. There’s a lot you’ll need to do and the divorce can quickly feel overwhelming if you’re not prepared. While getting a divorce in New Jersey isn’t necessarily difficult, there are some things you need to be aware of before you file. Here’s what your New Jersey divorce attorney wants you to know.
You Need to Meet the Requirements
To file for divorce in New Jersey, you and your spouse must be residents for at least one year prior to filing. If you just moved to the Garden State, you’ll need to wait until you hit that one-year mark or file for divorce in your previous state of residence.
The only exception to this rule is if you’re filing for divorce because your spouse cheated on you. In cases of adultery, the state waives the one-year residency requirement. If you choose to wait the full year, you and your spouse can still live separately and maintain separate finances until you’re able to finalize the divorce.
Divorces Can Take Months
Even the smoothest divorces can take time. Some will take a few months while others can stretch well over a year. It depends on the complexity of your divorce and how willing you and your spouse are to reach an agreement on the terms of your divorce. If you can agree and are willing to compromise on certain terms, you may be able to streamline the process.
The less you’re relying on a judge to set the terms of your divorce, the easier it will be. But if you and your spouse need help to reach a consensus or aren’t able to compromise, the court will make decisions for you. Your divorce will just take a bit longer to finalize.
Uncontested Divorces May Be Faster
If you’re looking to settle your divorce as quickly as possible, pursuing an uncontested divorce may be the best option. These divorces are settled between you and your spouse with the help of an attorney. Only going to court to finalize the divorce. To be eligible for this type of divorce, you and your spouse must be willing to compromise and agree on the terms of the divorce without the court’s assistance.
Since you’re able to avoid the traditional divorce hearings, these divorces will take far less time. That means you can move on with your life faster.
An Experienced New Jersey Divorce Attorney Can Help
No matter what type of divorce you’re pursuing, getting the legal advice you need is an absolute must. When you fully understand the situation and what you need to do to proceed with your divorce, you’ll be able to navigate the process more confidently and avoid the common hiccups that make divorces take longer than necessary.
Carvajal Law is here to help. Our attorneys have experience working with individuals and couples to get divorces taken care of as quickly and amicably as possible. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.