Hillsborough Divorce Lawyers
Going through a divorce can be an emotionally charged time, and having the right legal team by your side is essential. At Tune Law Group, LLC, our dedicated Hillsborough divorce lawyers offer advice and steadfast legal support to help you through the process of divorce, ensuring that you make informed decisions at every step. Our services cover a broad range of divorce-related issues, including but not limited to:
- Alimony or Spousal Support
- Appeals and Modifications
- Child Custody Disputes
- Child Support Disputes
- Collaborate Divorce
- Divorce Law
- Divorce Mediation
- Domestic Violence
- Prenuptial Agreements
What Type of Divorce Can I File?
In New Jersey, divorcing couples can choose between two primary types of divorce: fault/contested and no-fault/uncontested. Each type comes with its own set of requirements:
- No-Fault Divorce: Many couples opt for a no-fault divorce because of “irreconcilable differences,” as it usually involves fewer complications, lower costs, and a quicker resolution.
- Fault-Based Divorce: These divorces are more intricate, requiring evidence of specific grounds such as abandonment, adultery, substance abuse, desertion, deviant sexual behavior, domestic violence, mental abuse, extreme cruelty, imprisonment, or institutionalization. Gathering the necessary evidence for a fault-based divorce can be challenging, so it is advisable to consult an experienced lawyer to understand what proof is needed and whether this type of divorce suits your situation.
Standard Divorce Procedures
Divorce proceedings involve several key steps, addressing numerous issues such as child custody and support, division of marital assets, and alimony. The typical process includes:
- One spouse files a divorce petition with the court, and the other must respond within 35 days of being served.
- Both parties’ lawyers engage in discovery, exchanging all pertinent information and conducting depositions.
- Negotiation of a settlement agreement takes place.
- If mediation fails, an Intensive Settlement Conference mandated by the court may follow.
- Should prior negotiations fail, the case proceeds to trial for a judicial resolution.
Understanding Marital Assets
Marital assets encompass all property jointly acquired during the marriage. This typically includes:
- Bank accounts
- Businesses
- Real estate, such as marital and vacation homes
- Debts
- Retirement accounts and pensions
- Investments such as stocks
- Vehicles
Even if only one spouse’s name is on an account, deed, or title, the asset is still considered marital property if it was obtained during the marriage. Conversely, assets owned individually or acquired before the marriage are personal property, not subject to division. However, if personal assets are used for marital purposes (e.g., using inheritance to buy a home), they may be deemed marital property and divided accordingly.
Dividing Marital Property in New Jersey
New Jersey follows the equitable distribution principle, wherein property division aims to be fair, though not necessarily equal. The court considers several factors, such as:
- Duration of the marriage;
- Age and health of both spouses;
- Each spouse’s income and earning potential;
- The standard of living established during the marriage;
- Any other relevant factors deemed important by the court.
How Can a Hillsborough Divorce Lawyer Assist?
A skilled divorce lawyer can offer invaluable assistance by providing impartial advice, legal guidance, and robust support. They help protect your rights and best interests throughout the divorce process. A knowledgeable divorce lawyer can:
- Identify appropriate grounds for divorce;
- Prepare and file all required legal documents;
- Gather financial records, locate assets, and determine liabilities;
- Establish fair child support payments;
- Develop child custody and co-parenting agreements;
- Mediate or negotiate settlements;
- Represent you in court if necessary.
Consult Our Hillsborough Divorce Lawyers at Tune Law Group, LLC Today
Do you need assistance with your divorce? Our experienced Hillsborough divorce lawyers at Tune Law Group, LLC are ready to review your case and discuss your options. Contact us today at 908-434-1061 or online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients in and around Hunterdon County, Monmouth County, Whitehouse, and Tewksbury.
