How Long is the Divorce Process in New Jersey?

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You may want to finish your divorce process as quickly as possible. However, the decisions made in these proceedings may be life-altering, and there may also be challenges along the way, so this may take longer than you expect. Continue reading to learn how long the divorce process is and how an experienced Ocean County contested divorce attorney at the Law Offices of Sarina Gianna, LLC can help you work through this.

What New Jersey laws may extend my divorce process?

Most notably, New Jersey law has a residency requirement when a couple decides to file for a divorce. This is so that the court can establish jurisdiction. Specifically, this law holds that you or your spouse must be a bona fide resident of New Jersey or have lived in the state for at least 12 months.

And so, if you do not meet this residency requirement, you may have to wait until you do so that you can begin the filing process in the state of New Jersey. Ultimately, this may extend your divorce process even further.

However, on the bright side, the state of New Jersey does not have a mandatory “cooling off” period or separation period before filing for a divorce. This means that you can file as soon as you meet the residency requirement.

How long is the divorce process in the state of New Jersey?

Generally speaking, you should expect your contested divorce to last anywhere between 10 to 12 months. This timeline starts when you file the complaint and ends when the judge makes the final judgment on your settlement agreements. Though, the divorce process is unique for every couple, and therefore may vary in length depending on the following circumstances:

• Whether a couple cites fault grounds or no-fault grounds.
• Whether a couple has a high net worth and must undergo a high net worth divorce.
• Whether a couple has drafted a prenuptial agreement or postnuptial agreement.
• Whether a couple shares a child and must settle child custody and child support agreements.

Sometimes, couples find the divorce process speedier when they opt for an uncontested divorce. With this, they undergo an alternative divorce method such as mediation, arbitration, or collaborative divorce. Though, this route only works if a couple can remain amicable throughout its proceedings. Otherwise, an uncontested divorce can quickly turn into a lengthy contested divorce.

For more advice on how to make your divorce proceedings as efficient as possible, reach out to a skilled Brick, NJ divorce attorney. We look forward to speaking with you.