Description
When a client has decided on a divorce, it is important to provide as much relevant information as they can regarding their case. Our family law firm evaluates each client's unique needs in order to achieve the best possible result. Our services cover everything from property distribution to determining a child custody arrangement.
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So when a client comes in for a consultation, and they've made up their mind that they want to go forward with a divorce, the first thing we do is we evaluate what type of case it is. The one thing about family law and divorce cases, we have cases that involve child custody, issues concerning minor children. We have cases involving businesses and the dissolution of businesses that are big, complex financial cases. So we have to evaluate the case and determine what kind of information we need so we could go forward with a divorce.
So a client in preparation for a divorce, it's important for them to give information to their attorney. So the more information that the attorney has available, the easier it will be for the attorney to move forward and decide, you know, which track the case would go.
So in preparation, I usually tell the clients to gather information, tax returns, for example, to get financial information, pay stubs, if there's businesses. We look at general ledgers or we look at credit card statements. So the more information that the client is able to retrieve on their own and present it to the attorney, the easier it is for the attorney to make a determination of how to go forward.
Typical question that we get, most attorneys get is how long will a divorce process take? And honestly, it depends on the type of case. We can't control the judge. We can't control the arbitrator. A typical case could take anywhere from a couple of months to several years.
Mostly in New Jersey, we have a no-fault divorce state, so it's either by separation or irreconcilable differences. However, we do have other grounds for divorce, and some clients feel it's important and appropriate to set forth the real reasons for the divorce. Adultery, for example, extreme cruelty, desertion, so those are still grounds that we could plead in a divorce complaint. But the majority of people today are typically going forward with a no-fault divorce.
In order to get a fair settlement, a good settlement, you need to be prepared. Attorney needs to be prepared for trial. Attorney needs to be prepared to negotiate. We also have the ability to handle contested matrimonial cases and cases that are, you know, not as difficult, that are something that can be settled within a few months. I let the client lead on what they really expect in their divorce case. I'm their counsel. And I truly view my position as an attorney, as a counselor first, and I look at each client's needs.
