Examining the Latest Legal Developments and their Impact

Family Law

family law

Family Law in NJ

Within the state of New Jersey, family law refers to legal matters that occur among families or in personal relationships between individuals. Most people think of family law as divorce, child support, and child custody issues. Nevertheless, there are a whole host of other legal issues such as domestic abuse, adoptions, and juvenile matters agreements that fall under the family law banner.

Moreover, couples in New Jersey who have gotten married or pursued a family law case in a different state should be aware that family laws vary from state to state. For this reason, it is important to contact a knowledgeable family law firm if you intend to bring such a matter before the courts in New Jersey.

Divorce Laws NJ

Common Questions for Divorce Lawyers

When people marry, they pledge to be together forever. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. No one likes the idea of going through a divorce, but some circumstances make it nearly impossible for people to stay with each other. The decision to end a marriage, however, is almost always an emotional and legally complicated matter. Therefore, we have put together answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about divorce.

couple in handcuffs

How to Choose a Family Law Attorney

Choosing a family law attorney can be a difficult task that we all must face at one time or another. However, it is important to remember that a family law attorney does much more than help with divorce proceedings. They may assist setting up a trust fund, a living will or help get any number of legal documents in order. NJ family law attorneys help protect both families and assets. Even though selecting one seems like an arduous task, there are some areas to think about which can help individuals select the right one for their particular set of circumstances. Hiring a family law attorney does not have to be so difficult if you consider the following topics. Choosing the best attorney can help reduce the hassles that many times accompany legal cases.

How Are Lawyers Paid Hourly

How Does Child Custody Work?

Divorce benefits no one … it leaves heartbreak in its wake, usually after a long and acrimonious journey from filing the Complaint for Divorce, until the final divorce decree.  On that day the divorce is final, there is often a look back at “what went wrong?”  And, most of know that divorce usually leaves its mark on the child or children of a divorced couple.

Though the parties’ attorneys may make their recommendations to the judge about child custody, the ultimate decision is made by the judge to determine what is in each child’s best interest.  The Judge’s decision on child custody matters takes a few factors into account, both as they relate to the child and each parent.

Tips for A Successful Marriage

Tips for A Successful MarriageYou often hear the expression “a marriage made in Heaven”, signifying that two people are so compatible in a harmonious marriage or partnership, that it is as if that union was created in Heaven.

Most people would like to think that their marriage bears this seal of approval, but, the sad truth is that, these days, nearly half of all marriages end in divorce – in fact, you might be surprised to know that in the U.S., someone gets divorced every 10 to 13 seconds.  It seems that divorce is the solution when ideas and hearts no longer mesh – a disagreement or two, and harsh words are exchanged, then usually words perhaps are spoken, that are best left unsaid.  Next thing you know, a couple is not seeking marriage counseling, but one or the other is headed to a divorce attorney.  Often the source of discontent is money.  So, sometimes, having the forethought to have a prenuptial agreement in place to iron out any money issues before the marriage takes place, may be helpful.  But, in some instances, the mere suggestion of getting a “prenup” raises your partner’s hackles.

At one time, people married young, and stayed married for life, or until death robbed the remaining partner of longstanding love and companionship.  It makes your heart feel good to see an elderly couple holding hands and still enjoying one another after so many decades.

The Evolution of Gender Roles in Marriage

Gender Roles in MarriageOnce upon a time, young adults all aspired for the same thing – a good job, find a partner, move to the ‘burbs, start a family, get a dog … live happily ever after.  Young women seldom had a career, opting instead to marry, become a homemaker and stay home with the children.  The term “stay-at-home mom” had not even been coined yet – it was just expected of young women, that she forsake any future plans … she would be there for her husband and kids.

What is Child Support?

What is Child SupportChild support for minor children is defined as the payment that a non-custodial parent is ordered to make as support for the costs of raising his or her child/children (hereinafter just referred to as “child”).  The financial assistance is provided by the parent who does not have physical custody of his or her child, so that that particular parent’s income does not benefit the child on a daily basis.  The child support may be court-ordered, or voluntary, and may be set forth through a divorce decree or a separate order.  Sometimes, if child support is ordered, but not paid timely, or at all, state agencies may intervene forcing the payment of child support.  In the case where divorce has occurred, but both parents have full, or joint custody, in most cases there is no child support involved.  If you have questions about child custody or divorce you should contact a family law attorney in Short Hills for assistance in answering your questions.  A top NJ attorney will be happy to work with you to answer all of your legal questions.

Technically, the duty to support a minor child rests with both parents, even if the custodial parent has the means to care for the child on their own.  But, the support that is provided from the non-custodial parent not only pays for the child’s basic needs but allows the child to share in the standard of living both parents enjoy.