Attorney Gerald D. Bruckner,
founded LetsGetDivorced
to make getting an uncontested divorce affordable, fast and easy.
It's an ideal, cost-effective divorce option to consider for anyone looking for an affordable divorce attorney.
The cheapest way to get divorced is to have an uncontested divorce where you and your spouse agree on the terms of your divorce. By having an uncontested divorce you will not need an attorney
to represent you in court.
Using LetsGetDivorced it's simple
to prepare your divorce documents online at a fraction of the cost of hiring a lawyer.
Our service is available 24/7, so you can benefit from its low price, convenience and our fast comprehensive support — no matter where you live.
Have questions? We offer a free 15-minute consultation to walk you through the process.
Our Simple 4-Step Divorce Process
Check Your Eligibility
Confirm that our service will work for your situation.
Provide Your Case Details
Answer simple questions about your divorce and any agreements with your spouse in a guided online questionnaire.
Get Your Divorce Papers
We prepare all the documents to file for your divorce including a settlement agreement, ensuring compliance with your state's legal requirements.
You can review your documents online and instantly make changes.
File for Divorce
We provide clear, step-by-step instructions for filing your completed divorce forms by bringing them to the courthouse and filing them in-person with the court clerk.
E-Filing:
In the state of New Jersey, you can file your divorce papers electronically using the state's online E-Filing portal (JEDS).
How Long Will My Divorce Take?
In New Jersey, the judge will typically sign your Judgment of Divorce at a brief hearing (approximately 10 minutes) within approximately 30 days. During this hearing, held in court, the judge asks the plaintiff a few simple questions about their divorce before signing the Final Decree of Divorce. Your spouse is not required to attend this hearing. After approval, the court will provide you with a signed copy of your Judgment of Divorce.
Key Reasons to Use
LetsGetDivorced
for Your Divorce
Key Reasons to Use
LetsGetDivorced
for Your Divorce
Affordable, Flat Fee Pricing (No hidden fees)
Our flat fee divorce service provides an inexpensive and convenient way to file for an uncontested divorce, with guidance from start to finish.
Unlike many divorce services that present a low teaser price and then surprise you with extra charges for services you'd reasonably expect to be included, such as making revisions after your documents are prepared, LetsGetDivorced has no hidden fees to use our service. And of course, you can make revisions at no extra cost.
Expert Customer Support — From Start to Finish
Unlike many online divorce services that simply sell you documents and leave you on your own, our friendly, knowledgeable team is here to help every step of the way — from the moment you get started until your divorce is finalized.
We're always available if you need assistance using our website or have questions along the way — so you can move forward with confidence, knowing you're supported from beginning to end.
Fast, Same-Day Document Preparation
Many services and even law offices can take days or weeks to prepare your documents — often charging extra to speed things up. We prepare your documents within just one business day at no extra cost.
Convenient 100% Online Divorce Service
Unlike many online divorce services, as well as traditional attorneys and paralegals who often rely on slow, outdated processes — like mailing paper "workbooks" for clients to fill out, review, and send back and forth for review and corrections, which can take weeks — LetsGetDivorced uses modern internet technology to streamline the entire process.
At LetsGetDivorced, you can enter your divorce details in minutes. We prepare your documents and then instantly electronically provide them to you online for your review and to make any changes — all without the delays and hassle of filling out paper documents and sending them back-and-forth via email or the postal service until they are ready to be filed.
Court Acceptance Guarantee
Your divorce documents will be carefully prepared to meet your state's legal requirements. With over a decade of experience preparing divorce forms for thousands of cases, you can feel confident knowing your paperwork is complete and accurate.
Ready To Move Forward?
Save time, money, and stress with
LetsGetDivorced.
At LetsGetDivorced.com, we offer one of the lowest flat fee prices of any online divorce service — and that price includes every service other companies (like Divorce.com) charge hundreds more for.
When people ask, "How can your fee be so low?" here's our honest answer:
"We leverage modern technology to streamline our costs — and intentionally charge a modest flat fee to accomplish our mission of making divorce less financially burdensome for couples to end their marriage."
As shown in the following table, At $129 vs. $499, LetsGetDivorced.com provides the same online divorce services as Divorce.com — but for hundreds of dollars less — and with faster delivery and a better guarantee.
Features and Prices Comparison:
LetsGetDivorced.com vs. Divorce.com
(Online Divorce Service)
From beginning to end my divorce was very easy. The support staff I spoke with were always very friendly, polite and helpful.
They do a great job explaining everything so you feel confident and understand all the steps.
E. Wick
Wonderful customer support!
Whenever I called or sent an email during business hours a member of your support team always responded very quickly.
What are the residence
requirements to file divorce
in New Jersey?
What are the residence requirements to file
divorce in New Jersey
In the state of New Jersey, the residency requirement is satisfied if at least one spouse was a resident of the state for a period of at least 12 consecutive months
immediately prior to filing for divorce. The divorce can be filed in any county in which either spouse resides at the time of filing.
How long does a divorce take
in New Jersey?
How long does a divorce take in New Jersey?
New Jersey does not impose a mandatory waiting period after filing for divorce before a judge can grant it. After all of the divorce papers are filed with the court the case can be finalized in about 2-4 weeks before a Judge depending upon the backlog of cases in the particular court.
How much does a divorce cost
in New Jersey?
How much does a divorce cost in New Jersey?
The average cost for a traditional divorce invloving lawyers is around $7,567 not including the court's filing fee which averages approximately $300.
Note: Spouses seeking an uncontested divorce using LetsGetDivorced.com's online divorce service can enormously reduce divorce
costs and get all of their divorce paperwork inexpensively for only $129.
How to get a free divorce
in New Jersey
How to get a free divorce in New Jersey
It's possible to get a free divorce in New Jersey, but there are some requirements. First, the plaintiff
should file for an uncontested divorce. Second, the plaintiff needs to be able to get their divorce
documents and have them filled out for free, or fill them out themself. And lastly, to not be charged the court's filing fee the
plaintiff has to file, and have granted by a judge, the court's fee waiver form.
Note: Using LetsGetDivorced.com's online divorce service the plaintiff can obtain and fill out
their divorce paperwork for only $129.
Is online divorce legal
in New Jersey?
Is online divorce legal in New Jersey?
The state of New Jersey allows people to file for divorce without using an attorney and permits online divorce services to provide and prepare the divorce forms
required to file for a divorce in New Jersey.
Is the fee to use
LetsGetDivorced.com
only $129?
Is the fee to use LetsGetDivorced.com
only $129?
Absolutely! Our fee for completing all your divorce forms online and providing access to our customer support team by phone or email is a one-time payment of just $129.
We have no hidden fees, no monthly subscription charges, and no document storage fees.
The plain truth is that we've chosen to offer our high-quality online divorce service at a very affordable price, that allows us to make a fair profit while keeping our company operational to assist as many people as we can.
Does the fee to use
LetsGetDivorced.com
include the court filing fee?
Does the fee to use LetsGetDivorced.com
include the court's filing fee?
We wish we could include the court's filing fee but it can vary by county. The court can waive the filing fee for plaintiffs who qualify as low-income and file a request to have the filing fee waived.
What forms do I need to file
for a divorce in New Jersey?
What forms do I need to file for a divorce in New Jersey?
In the state of New Jersey, these are the most common forms needed to file for an uncontested divorce without minor children.
Summons
Verified Complaint for Divorce
Marital Settlement Agreement
Certifications of Notification of CDR
Certification of Insurance Coverage
Certification of Non-Military Service
Defendant Acknowledgment of Service
Request to Enter Default Judgment
Final Judgment of Divorce
Plus,
if your divorce involves minor children, additional forms will need to be completed regarding custody, child support and visitation.
Note: Using LetsGetDivorced.com, it's easy to prepare your divorce forms online for only $129.
Do I need to file my divorce
in the county where my
marriage took place?
Do I need to file my divorce in the county
where my marriage took place?
No. Where a divorce can be filed is based on the current residence of the spouses.
Will I need to provide a copy
of my marriage certificate
to the court?
Will I need to provide a copy of my
marriage certificate to the court?
No. You only need to provide the date of the marriage and the state and county where it took place.
What is the cheapest and
quickest way to get a divorce in New Jersey?
What is the cheapest and quickest way
to get a divorce in New Jersey?
An uncontested divorce is the cheapest, quickest, and least stressful way to get divorced in New Jersey because by you and your spouse agreeing on all terms, you will not need to hire an attorney to represent you in adversarial court proceedings. If you qualify for a waiver you will not have to pay the court's filing fee.
What is an uncontested
divorce?
What is an uncontested divorce?
An uncontested divorce is the most cost-effective and least stressful way to get divorced. It is a legal process in which both spouses agree to dissolve their marriage and also
come to an agreement on related issues such as child custody, child support, visitation, property division, alimony, and other matters related to the divorce. In an uncontested divorce,
both spouses cooperate and work together amicably to reach a consensus on these issues, and their mutal agreement(s) are then presented to the court for approval by a judge.
In contrast, a contested divorce occurs in situations where spouses cannot reach a mutual agreement on one or more of these issues, which will require legal proceedings in court before a judge.
In a contested divorce, each spouse typically hires an attorney to represent them and each spouse provides testimony in court (which can be very stressful) to support their position on any disputed issues.
The judge will make binding legal decisions to resolve their disputes. Consequently, an uncontested divorce represents a quicker, more cost-effective, and less emotionally taxing alternative when compared to a contested divorce.
How is child support calculated
and handled in New Jersey?
How is child support calculated and handled in New Jersey?
The following is a general outline of how child support is usually calculated and handled in New Jersey:
Child support in the state of New Jersey is typically calculated using the state's child support guidelines established by the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts.
1. Determining the Child Support Amount:
Child support in New Jersey is calculated using the New Jersey Child Support Guidelines. These guidelines consider several factors, including:
The income of both parents.
The number of children involved.
The custody arrangement (i.e., whether one parent has sole physical custody or if the custody is shared).
Health care and child care expenses.
Other relevant expenses.
2. Income Consideration:
The income of both parents is a crucial factor in determining child support. This includes not just their salaries but also other sources of income, such as bonuses, commissions, rental income, and investments. Imputed income may be considered if a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed.
3. Shared Parenting Time:
If the parents share physical custody of the children, the child support calculation takes into account the number of overnights each parent has with the children. Shared parenting time may lead to a different child support obligation compared to a situation where one parent has sole physical custody.
4. Health Care and Child Care Costs:
Health insurance and child care costs are typically divided between the parents based on their income percentages. The non-custodial parent may be required to contribute to these costs in addition to the basic child support obligation.
5. Deviation from Guidelines:
In some cases, the court may deviate from the standard child support guidelines. This can occur if the child has special needs, if the parents have an unusually high income, or if there are other factors that justify a deviation.
6. Enforcement and Collection:
Child support orders are enforceable by law in New Jersey. The non-custodial parent may be required to make payments through income withholding, where the child support amount is automatically deducted from their paycheck. Failure to pay child support can result in various legal consequences, such as wage garnishment, suspension of driver's licenses, or even imprisonment.
7. Modifications:
Child support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances. This can include changes in income, custody arrangements, or the child's needs. Either parent can request a modification through the court.
Courts and Agencies:
Child support cases in New Jersey may be handled through the Family Division of the Superior Court or through the New Jersey Child Support Program, which is a state agency responsible for child support enforcement and collection.
Note: Child Support in an Uncontested Divorce:
In an uncontested divorce in New Jersey, the spouses can agree to use the amount of child support that is calculated using the child support guidelines; and
they are also allowed to agree to use a different amount for child support that is higher or lower than the guideline amount.
What are the grounds for a
divorce in New Jersey?
What are the grounds for a divorce in New Jersey?
New Jersey has "fault" and "no-fault" divorce grounds (legally acceptable reasons) to end a marriage.
"NO FAULT" GROUNDS FOR DIVORCE IN NEW JERSEY:
Irreconcilable Differences. This new ground for divorce allows either spuse to file a Complaint for divorce without any specific reason. The only statements the party filing for divorce must make are: 1) there has been a breakdown of the marriage for a period of six months; which makes it appear that the marriage should be dissolved; and 2) there is no reasonable prospect of reconciliation.
18 Month Separation. Neither spouse is required to offer evidence of fault or wrongdoing. The Complaint must state that you and your spouse have lived in different residences for 18 months or more and that the months have been consecutive. You must state that there is no reasonable prospect of reconciliation. Living in the same residence in different bedrooms does not fulfill the requirement. You do not have to file any documents to start the running of the 18 months. At the end of 18 months you will file a sworn statement that you and your spouse have been separated, living separate and apart, in different residences for 18 months or more and you do not expect to reconcile.
"FAULT" GROUNDS FOR DIVORCE IN NEW JERSEY:
Mental Illness. If your spouse has been in an institution for 24 months or more, you are entitled to a divorce. The institutionalization must be for 24 consecutive months and the entire 24 months must be after the wedding ceremony.
Imprisonment. If your spouse has been in a prison for 18 months or more consecutive months. The entire 18 months must be after the marriage began. The Complaint for divorce should be filed while your spouse is in prison. If your spouse is released and you resume living together, you no longer qualify for a divorce under this ground.
Willful And Continued Desertion, Physical. If your spouse moved out of the marital home and your spouse has been gone for at least 12 months. The desertion must be for 12 consecutive months. If you and your spouse agree that you will separate and that your spouse will move out, you may still file a Complaint based on desertion.
Willful And Continued Desertion, Sexual. Sexual desertion is a persistent refusal by your spouse to engage in sexual relations with you for a period of 12 months or more. This type of desertion cannot be by mutual consent. Your spouse must refuse to engage in relations you desire and would engage in if your spouse were willing.
Voluntarily Induced Addiction. If your spouse is an alcoholic or drug addict and the alcoholism or drug abuse must be for 12 consecutive months or more.
Adultery. If your spouse is having an affair and you know the name and address of the "other spouse" you may file for a divorce based on adultery.
Extreme Cruelty. This is the most commonly used fault-ground for divorce. This ground includes all acts of physical violence and acts of mental cruelty which endanger your safety or health or which make continued living together unreasonable or improper. There is no waiting period.
How to file an uncontested
divorce in New Jersey
without a lawyer?
How to file an uncontested divorce in New Jersey without a lawyer?
In New Jersey, the basic steps to file for an uncontested divorce without a lawyer begin by determining if you meet the New Jersey residency requirement. The next step is to fill out
the "Verified Complaint for Divorce". Then, file the complaint with the Clerk of the Superior Court in the county where your divorce is being filed and pay
the required filing fee. Notify your spouse about the divorce filing by serving them with a copy of the divorce papers. If you and your spouse both agree on all of the
issues concerning your divorce, you can draft a "Final Judgment of Divorce" and file it with the court. Attend a scheduled court hearing, with all of your divorce paperwork, to have the judge review it.
The spouse who is the defendant is not required to attend the hearing. If everything is in order, the judge can approve and grant your divorce, and sign the Final Judgment of Divorce.
Low-Cost Uncontested Divorce in New Jersey Online
Low-Cost
Uncontested Divorce in New Jersey online
Get a comprehensive, affordable online divorce for the flat fee of just
$
129.
Divorce papers prepared and ready for download within 1 business day
Guaranteed court acceptance
Marital Settlement Agreement
Step-by-step filing instructions
Free unlimited revisions
Click to show more
Click to show more
Spousal name change
Customer support by phone and email
Instant download or email delivery of all documents
Attorney Gerald D. Bruckner,
founded LetsGetDivorced
to make getting an uncontested divorce affordable, fast and easy.
It's an ideal, cost-effective divorce option to consider for anyone looking for an affordable divorce attorney.
The cheapest way to get divorced is to have an uncontested divorce where you and your spouse agree on the terms of your divorce. By having an uncontested divorce you will not need an attorney
to represent you in court.
Using LetsGetDivorced it's simple
to prepare your divorce documents online at a fraction of the cost of hiring a lawyer.
Our service is available 24/7, so you can benefit from its low price, convenience and our fast comprehensive support — no matter where you live.
Have questions? We offer a free 15-minute consultation to walk you through the process.
Our Simple 4-Step Divorce Process
Check Your Eligibility
Confirm that our service will work for your situation.
Provide Your Case Details
Answer simple questions about your divorce and any agreements with your spouse in a guided online questionnaire.
Get Your Divorce Papers
We prepare all the documents to file for your divorce including a settlement agreement, ensuring compliance with your state's legal requirements.
You can review your documents online and instantly make changes.
File for Divorce
We provide clear, step-by-step instructions for filing your completed divorce forms by bringing them to the courthouse and filing them in-person with the court clerk.
E-Filing:
In the state of New Jersey, you can file your divorce papers electronically using the state's online E-Filing portal (JEDS).
How Long Will My Divorce Take?
In New Jersey, the judge will typically sign your Judgment of Divorce at a brief hearing (approximately 10 minutes) within approximately 30 days. During this hearing, held in court, the judge asks the plaintiff a few simple questions about their divorce before signing the Final Decree of Divorce. Your spouse is not required to attend this hearing. After approval, the court will provide you with a signed copy of your Judgment of Divorce.
Key Reasons to Use
LetsGetDivorced
for Your Divorce
Key Reasons to Use
LetsGetDivorced
for Your Divorce
Affordable, Flat Fee Pricing (No hidden fees)
Our flat fee divorce service provides an inexpensive and convenient way to file for an uncontested divorce, with guidance from start to finish.
Unlike many divorce services that present a low teaser price and then surprise you with extra charges for services you'd reasonably expect to be included, such as making revisions after your documents are prepared, LetsGetDivorced has no hidden fees to use our service. And of course, you can make revisions at no extra cost.
Expert Customer Support — From Start to Finish
Unlike many online divorce services that simply sell you documents and leave you on your own, our friendly, knowledgeable team is here to help every step of the way — from the moment you get started until your divorce is finalized.
We're always available if you need assistance using our website or have questions along the way — so you can move forward with confidence, knowing you're supported from beginning to end.
Fast, Same-Day Document Preparation
Many services and even law offices can take days or weeks to prepare your documents — often charging extra to speed things up. We prepare your documents within just one business day at no extra cost.
Convenient 100% Online Divorce Service
Unlike many online divorce services, as well as traditional attorneys and paralegals who often rely on slow, outdated processes — like mailing paper "workbooks" for clients to fill out, review, and send back and forth for review and corrections, which can take weeks — LetsGetDivorced uses modern internet technology to streamline the entire process.
At LetsGetDivorced, you can enter your divorce details in minutes. We prepare your documents and then instantly electronically provide them to you online for your review and to make any changes — all without the delays and hassle of filling out paper documents and sending them back-and-forth via email or the postal service until they are ready to be filed.
Court Acceptance Guarantee
Your divorce documents will be carefully prepared to meet your state's legal requirements. With over a decade of experience preparing divorce forms for thousands of cases, you can feel confident knowing your paperwork is complete and accurate.
Ready To Move Forward?
Save time, money, and stress with
LetsGetDivorced.
From beginning to end my divorce was very easy. The support staff I spoke with were always very friendly, polite and helpful.
They do a great job explaining everything so you feel confident and understand all the steps.
E. Wick
Wonderful customer support!
Whenever I called or sent an email during business hours a member of your support team always responded very quickly.
At LetsGetDivorced.com, we offer one of the lowest flat fee prices of any online divorce service — and that price includes every service other companies (like Divorce.com) charge hundreds more for.
When people ask, "How can your fee be so low?" here's our honest answer:
"We leverage modern technology to streamline our costs — and intentionally charge a modest flat fee to accomplish our mission of making divorce less financially burdensome for couples to end their marriage."
As shown in the following table, At $129 vs. $499, LetsGetDivorced.com provides the same online divorce services as Divorce.com — but for hundreds of dollars less — and with faster delivery and a better guarantee.
Features and Prices Comparison:
LetsGetDivorced.com vs. Divorce.com
(Online Divorce Service)
What are the residence
requirements to file divorce
in New Jersey?
What are the residence requirements to file
divorce in New Jersey
In the state of New Jersey, the residency requirement is satisfied if at least one spouse was a resident of the state for a period of at least 12 consecutive months
immediately prior to filing for divorce. The divorce can be filed in any county in which either spouse resides at the time of filing.
How long does a divorce take
in New Jersey?
How long does a divorce take in New Jersey?
New Jersey does not impose a mandatory waiting period after filing for divorce before a judge can grant it. After all of the divorce papers are filed with the court the case can be finalized in about 2-4 weeks before a Judge depending upon the backlog of cases in the particular court.
How much does a divorce cost
in New Jersey?
How much does a divorce cost in New Jersey?
The average cost for a traditional divorce invloving lawyers is around $7,567 not including the court's filing fee which averages approximately $300.
Note: Spouses seeking an uncontested divorce using LetsGetDivorced.com's online divorce service can enormously reduce divorce
costs and get all of their divorce paperwork inexpensively for only $129.
How to get a free divorce
in New Jersey
How to get a free divorce in New Jersey
It's possible to get a free divorce in New Jersey, but there are some requirements. First, the plaintiff
should file for an uncontested divorce. Second, the plaintiff needs to be able to get their divorce
documents and have them filled out for free, or fill them out themself. And lastly, to not be charged the court's filing fee the
plaintiff has to file, and have granted by a judge, the court's fee waiver form.
Note: Using LetsGetDivorced.com's online divorce service the plaintiff can obtain and fill out
their divorce paperwork for only $129.
Is online divorce legal
in New Jersey?
Is online divorce legal in New Jersey?
The state of New Jersey allows people to file for divorce without using an attorney and permits online divorce services to provide and prepare the divorce forms
required to file for a divorce in New Jersey.
Is the fee to use
LetsGetDivorced.com
only $129?
Is the fee to use LetsGetDivorced.com
only $129?
Absolutely! Our fee for completing all your divorce forms online and providing access to our customer support team by phone or email is a one-time payment of just $129.
We have no hidden fees, no monthly subscription charges, and no document storage fees.
The plain truth is that we've chosen to offer our high-quality online divorce service at a very affordable price, that allows us to make a fair profit while keeping our company operational to assist as many people as we can.
Does the fee to use
LetsGetDivorced.com
include the court filing fee?
Does the fee to use LetsGetDivorced.com
include the court's filing fee?
We wish we could include the court's filing fee but it can vary by county. The court can waive the filing fee for plaintiffs who qualify as low-income and file a request to have the filing fee waived.
What forms do I need to file
for a divorce in New Jersey?
What forms do I need to file for a divorce in New Jersey?
In the state of New Jersey, these are the most common forms needed to file for an uncontested divorce without minor children.
Summons
Verified Complaint for Divorce
Marital Settlement Agreement
Certifications of Notification of CDR
Certification of Insurance Coverage
Certification of Non-Military Service
Defendant Acknowledgment of Service
Request to Enter Default Judgment
Final Judgment of Divorce
Plus,
if your divorce involves minor children, additional forms will need to be completed regarding custody, child support and visitation.
Note: Using LetsGetDivorced.com, it's easy to prepare your divorce forms online for only $129.
Do I need to file my divorce
in the county where my
marriage took place?
Do I need to file my divorce in the county
where my marriage took place?
No. Where a divorce can be filed is based on the current residence of the spouses.
Will I need to provide a copy
of my marriage certificate
to the court?
Will I need to provide a copy of my
marriage certificate to the court?
No. You only need to provide the date of the marriage and the state and county where it took place.
What is the cheapest and
quickest way to get a divorce in New Jersey?
What is the cheapest and quickest way
to get a divorce in New Jersey?
An uncontested divorce is the cheapest, quickest, and least stressful way to get divorced in New Jersey because by you and your spouse agreeing on all terms, you will not need to hire an attorney to represent you in adversarial court proceedings. If you qualify for a waiver you will not have to pay the court's filing fee.
What is an uncontested
divorce?
What is an uncontested divorce?
An uncontested divorce is the most cost-effective and least stressful way to get divorced. It is a legal process in which both spouses agree to dissolve their marriage and also
come to an agreement on related issues such as child custody, child support, visitation, property division, alimony, and other matters related to the divorce. In an uncontested divorce,
both spouses cooperate and work together amicably to reach a consensus on these issues, and their mutal agreement(s) are then presented to the court for approval by a judge.
In contrast, a contested divorce occurs in situations where spouses cannot reach a mutual agreement on one or more of these issues, which will require legal proceedings in court before a judge.
In a contested divorce, each spouse typically hires an attorney to represent them and each spouse provides testimony in court (which can be very stressful) to support their position on any disputed issues.
The judge will make binding legal decisions to resolve their disputes. Consequently, an uncontested divorce represents a quicker, more cost-effective, and less emotionally taxing alternative when compared to a contested divorce.
How is child support calculated
and handled in New Jersey?
How is child support calculated and handled in New Jersey?
The following is a general outline of how child support is usually calculated and handled in New Jersey:
Child support in the state of New Jersey is typically calculated using the state's child support guidelines established by the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts.
1. Determining the Child Support Amount:
Child support in New Jersey is calculated using the New Jersey Child Support Guidelines. These guidelines consider several factors, including:
The income of both parents.
The number of children involved.
The custody arrangement (i.e., whether one parent has sole physical custody or if the custody is shared).
Health care and child care expenses.
Other relevant expenses.
2. Income Consideration:
The income of both parents is a crucial factor in determining child support. This includes not just their salaries but also other sources of income, such as bonuses, commissions, rental income, and investments. Imputed income may be considered if a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed.
3. Shared Parenting Time:
If the parents share physical custody of the children, the child support calculation takes into account the number of overnights each parent has with the children. Shared parenting time may lead to a different child support obligation compared to a situation where one parent has sole physical custody.
4. Health Care and Child Care Costs:
Health insurance and child care costs are typically divided between the parents based on their income percentages. The non-custodial parent may be required to contribute to these costs in addition to the basic child support obligation.
5. Deviation from Guidelines:
In some cases, the court may deviate from the standard child support guidelines. This can occur if the child has special needs, if the parents have an unusually high income, or if there are other factors that justify a deviation.
6. Enforcement and Collection:
Child support orders are enforceable by law in New Jersey. The non-custodial parent may be required to make payments through income withholding, where the child support amount is automatically deducted from their paycheck. Failure to pay child support can result in various legal consequences, such as wage garnishment, suspension of driver's licenses, or even imprisonment.
7. Modifications:
Child support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances. This can include changes in income, custody arrangements, or the child's needs. Either parent can request a modification through the court.
Courts and Agencies:
Child support cases in New Jersey may be handled through the Family Division of the Superior Court or through the New Jersey Child Support Program, which is a state agency responsible for child support enforcement and collection.
Note: Child Support in an Uncontested Divorce:
In an uncontested divorce in New Jersey, the spouses can agree to use the amount of child support that is calculated using the child support guidelines; and
they are also allowed to agree to use a different amount for child support that is higher or lower than the guideline amount.
What are the grounds for a
divorce in New Jersey?
What are the grounds for a divorce in New Jersey?
New Jersey has "fault" and "no-fault" divorce grounds (legally acceptable reasons) to end a marriage.
"NO FAULT" GROUNDS FOR DIVORCE IN NEW JERSEY:
Irreconcilable Differences. This new ground for divorce allows either spuse to file a Complaint for divorce without any specific reason. The only statements the party filing for divorce must make are: 1) there has been a breakdown of the marriage for a period of six months; which makes it appear that the marriage should be dissolved; and 2) there is no reasonable prospect of reconciliation.
18 Month Separation. Neither spouse is required to offer evidence of fault or wrongdoing. The Complaint must state that you and your spouse have lived in different residences for 18 months or more and that the months have been consecutive. You must state that there is no reasonable prospect of reconciliation. Living in the same residence in different bedrooms does not fulfill the requirement. You do not have to file any documents to start the running of the 18 months. At the end of 18 months you will file a sworn statement that you and your spouse have been separated, living separate and apart, in different residences for 18 months or more and you do not expect to reconcile.
"FAULT" GROUNDS FOR DIVORCE IN NEW JERSEY:
Mental Illness. If your spouse has been in an institution for 24 months or more, you are entitled to a divorce. The institutionalization must be for 24 consecutive months and the entire 24 months must be after the wedding ceremony.
Imprisonment. If your spouse has been in a prison for 18 months or more consecutive months. The entire 18 months must be after the marriage began. The Complaint for divorce should be filed while your spouse is in prison. If your spouse is released and you resume living together, you no longer qualify for a divorce under this ground.
Willful And Continued Desertion, Physical. If your spouse moved out of the marital home and your spouse has been gone for at least 12 months. The desertion must be for 12 consecutive months. If you and your spouse agree that you will separate and that your spouse will move out, you may still file a Complaint based on desertion.
Willful And Continued Desertion, Sexual. Sexual desertion is a persistent refusal by your spouse to engage in sexual relations with you for a period of 12 months or more. This type of desertion cannot be by mutual consent. Your spouse must refuse to engage in relations you desire and would engage in if your spouse were willing.
Voluntarily Induced Addiction. If your spouse is an alcoholic or drug addict and the alcoholism or drug abuse must be for 12 consecutive months or more.
Adultery. If your spouse is having an affair and you know the name and address of the "other spouse" you may file for a divorce based on adultery.
Extreme Cruelty. This is the most commonly used fault-ground for divorce. This ground includes all acts of physical violence and acts of mental cruelty which endanger your safety or health or which make continued living together unreasonable or improper. There is no waiting period.
How to file an uncontested
divorce in New Jersey
without a lawyer?
How to file an uncontested divorce in New Jersey without a lawyer?
In New Jersey, the basic steps to file for an uncontested divorce without a lawyer begin by determining if you meet the New Jersey residency requirement. The next step is to fill out
the "Verified Complaint for Divorce". Then, file the complaint with the Clerk of the Superior Court in the county where your divorce is being filed and pay
the required filing fee. Notify your spouse about the divorce filing by serving them with a copy of the divorce papers. If you and your spouse both agree on all of the
issues concerning your divorce, you can draft a "Final Judgment of Divorce" and file it with the court. Attend a scheduled court hearing, with all of your divorce paperwork, to have the judge review it.
The spouse who is the defendant is not required to attend the hearing. If everything is in order, the judge can approve and grant your divorce, and sign the Final Judgment of Divorce.
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