My Spouse Wants a Divorce. What Do I Do?

If your spouse has told you they want a divorce, you may be feeling overwhelmed, confused, and uncertain about what comes next. Divorce is a significant life change, and how you handle the situation from the beginning can have a lasting impact on your future. Read on for some guidance about what to do if your spouse has asked for a divorce in New Jersey. For personalized advice and assistance tailored to your specific situation in Union, Essex or Middlesex County, contact the Law Offices of John B. D’Alessandro to speak with an experienced and dedicated Union divorce lawyer.

Stay Calm and Gather Information

Receiving divorce news can be emotionally challenging, but it’s essential to remain as calm as possible. Reacting out of anger or fear can lead to decisions you may regret later. Instead, take a step back, collect your thoughts, and start gathering information about the divorce process.

New Jersey is a no-fault divorce state, meaning a spouse does not need to prove wrongdoing to file for divorce. However, fault-based grounds, such as adultery or abandonment, can also be cited. Understanding the reasons for the divorce can help you prepare for the legal steps ahead.

Consult with a Family Law Attorney

One of the most important things you can do is consult an experienced New Jersey divorce attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can explain your rights, help you understand the legal process, and develop a strategy to protect your interests. Even if you and your spouse are amicable, it’s crucial to have legal guidance to ensure your rights are protected.

Understand Your Financial Situation

Divorce will impact your financial future, so it’s vital to take stock of your finances early on. Gather documents such as:

• Bank statements
• Tax returns
• Retirement accounts
• Property deeds
• Credit card statements
• Any other relevant financial records

Having a clear picture of your assets and debts will help when discussing property division, alimony, and other financial matters.

Consider Your Living Arrangements

If you and your spouse currently live together, you’ll need to consider whether one of you will move out or if you can continue cohabitating during the divorce process. If you have children, their well-being should be the top priority when making these decisions.

Think About Custody and Parenting Time

If you have children, you’ll need to start thinking about child custody and parenting time. In New Jersey, courts prioritize the best interests of the child when making custody decisions. This includes factors such as each parent’s relationship with the child, the stability of the home environment, and each parent’s ability to care for the child.

Avoid Common Mistakes

Many people make mistakes in the early stages of divorce that can negatively affect the outcome of their case. Here are a few things to avoid:

• Hiding assets – Being dishonest about your finances can lead to legal consequences.
• Making impulsive decisions – Divorce is emotional, but decisions should be made logically and with legal guidance.
• Speaking negatively about your spouse – This can impact child custody decisions and make negotiations more contentious.
• Ignoring court orders – Failing to follow legal requirements can result in serious penalties.

Explore Alternative Dispute Resolution Options

Not all divorces need to be resolved in court. Mediation and collaborative divorce are alternative methods that allow spouses to work together to reach agreements on property division, custody, and support. These options can be less stressful and more cost-effective than litigation.

Prepare for the Road Ahead

Divorce is a process that takes time, and it’s important to have realistic expectations. Depending on the complexity of your case, a divorce in New Jersey can take several months or even longer to finalize. Working with an experienced New Jersey divorce attorney can help you navigate the process smoothly and ensure you achieve the best possible outcome.

Contact the Law Offices of John B. D’Alessandro for Legal Guidance

If your spouse has asked for a divorce, you don’t have to face this situation alone. The Law Offices of John B. D’Alessandro is here to help individuals in Union, Essex, and Middlesex counties protect their rights and interests during the divorce process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.