Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey Divorces From Divorce Attorney Santo V. Artusa, Jr., Esq. 

1. I want a divorce but my spouse does not, can I still obtain a divorce?
   Yes. While you can get a divorce without your spouse's signature, it will take longer if he or she contests the divorce.
2. Do I have to go to trial to obtain a divorce?
   No. If you cannot resolve all issues in your case, you will go to trial. However, it is very unlikely your case will actually go through a whole trial. The court rules require that certain steps are taken in a divorce and with these steps, many couples are able to obtain a divorce without a trial.
3. Do my children need to go to court?
   No.
4. How fast can I get a divorce?
   In some counties,  thirty (30) days (if your spouse signs and waives any form of relief). In other counties sixty (60) days or more.
5. How much is the filing fee for a divorce?
   $300.00 without children/parenting class fee. $325.00 with children/parenting class fee.
6. Can my spouse and I enter into an agreement without the Judge's approval?
   Yes. The court actually prefers that you do enter into an agreement rather than decide your case.
7. If my spouse is abusing me, can I obtain a restraining order during the divorce?
8. Do I need an attorney for a divorce?
   You do not but it is highly recommended.
9. I signed a prenuptial agreement, can I get out of it?
   In certain circumstances, Yes.
10. I cannot locate my spouse, can I still obtain a divorce in New Jersey? 
    Yes. You need to obtain a divorce by publication. 
11. My spouse cheated on me, can I use that or claim that in a divorce? 
    Yes. 
12. My spouse makes less money than me, do I have to pay alimony? 
    You only have to pay alimony is if you agree to it or are court ordered to do so. 
13. My spouse and I have children, do I have to pay child support?
    If your spouse has residential custody, yes you do have to pay child support. However, if you and you spouse agree to an amount, you can do it that way. 
14. I do not think my spouse will pay the support ordered by the court, what can I do? 
    The best way to handle alimony or child support is by using the county probation department. 
15. I want to relocate out of state with my child, can this be dealt with in a divorce? 
    Yes. 
16. I am unhappy with my current attorney, can I change my attorney? 
    Usually you can change attorneys but first try to talk to the attorney and discuss what you are unhappy about. 
17. I do not want a divorce, but my spouse does, can I stop it? 
    No, but you can fight it, which will delay the divorce for months or even years (if there is good reason, etc.)
18. Will I be forced to sell my home if I file for divorce?
    A Judge could potentially order the sale of a home or properties. However, if you resolve your case with your spouse, you may be able to avoid a sale. You can also sell the property in the future if you and your spouse agree. 
19. How are retirement funds handled so that I am not taxed or penalized? 
    Through QDROs, you can avoid immediate taxation. 
20. Where do I file for divorce? 
    At your County Courthouse which is in the County Seat. 

While these questions address some issues, divorce has many other complex issues that are involved which cannot be addressed adequately online. If you seek more answers and/or seek to hire a divorce lawyer in New Jersey, call us in our Jersey City office today.