NJ Divorce Lawyers

Navigating Divorce in New Jersey

Ending a marriage can be an emotionally difficult and legally complex process. For residents of New Jersey looking to dissolve their union, it is important to understand the state laws and regulations surrounding divorce. Consulting with an experienced New Jersey divorce lawyer can help make this transition less stressful.

Grounds for Divorce

New Jersey allows for no-fault divorce on the grounds of irreconcilable differences for marriages lasting at least 6 months. This means couples do not have to prove fault or wrongdoing by either spouse. However, fault may still be considered for issues like alimony and property division. Other potential grounds for divorce in NJ include:

• Adultery
• Abandonment for 12+ months
• Extreme cruelty
• Imprisonment
• Drug or alcohol abuse
• Institutionalization for mental illness

It is advisable to consult an attorney to determine the appropriate grounds for your particular situation.

Division of Assets

New Jersey is an “equitable distribution” state when it comes to splitting marital assets like real estate, retirement accounts, businesses, etc. This means assets will be divided in a fair and just manner, but not necessarily 50/50. Factors like length of marriage, income levels, custodial arrangements, and marital misconduct may impact division.

Some assets like inheritances and gifts may be considered separate property exempt from distribution. It is important to track and document existing assets/debts. Your lawyer can help put together a comprehensive list.

Alimony

Courts may order one spouse to pay the other post-divorce alimony or spousal support. Unlike child support, alimony is not mandatory in NJ. Whether it is awarded and how much depends on factors like:

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

• Length of marriage
• Income levels of each spouse
• Earning potential
• Health and ages of parties
• Standard of living during marriage

Alimony may be temporary or permanent. Calculations often start at 20-30% of the difference in spousal incomes. Payments usually terminate upon death or remarriage of the supported spouse.

Child Custody

Child custody decisions in NJ focus on the “best interests of the child.” Joint legal custody, where parents share decision-making, is common. Physical custody options include:

• Joint physical custody
• Sole custody to one parent
• Split custody with each getting some kids

Courts prefer to keep siblings together and develop schedules that meet developmental needs. Supervised visitation or denying custody rights may occur in cases of neglect, abuse, or substance abuse.

Child Support

The parent who does not have primary physical custody typically pays child support in NJ. Amounts are determined by guidelines factoring in custody arrangements, incomes of both parents, health insurance/child care costs, etc. Extra expenses may be divided proportionally between parents. Support generally continues until a child turns 18.

Finding an Attorney

Going through a divorce without legal counsel is not advisable in most cases. An experienced New Jersey divorce lawyer can help you:

• Determine grounds for divorce
• File paperwork and represent you in court
• Negotiate fair division of assets and debts
• Develop custody arrangements in the child’s best interest
• Calculate support amounts according to the law
• Avoid common mistakes and advocate for your rights

Take time to research potential attorneys and find one whose expertise matches your needs. Many offer free consultations to evaluate your case.

While emotionally difficult, finalizing your divorce with the help of a knowledgeable New Jersey family law attorney can allow you to move forward and start fresh. Protect yourself and your children by understanding your rights under state laws.