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Despite the impact of COVID-19, we are open and continuing to meet the needs of our existing clients and new clients without interruption or change in the quality of our services. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any concerns, questions or requests for information about your matter. At this time we are offering appointments via telephonic and/or video conferencing.
To help out during these trying times we are offering Free Consultations. Click here to Schedule a Consultation.

Newsome O'Donnell | Family Law

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Evaluating options in pursuing divorce

Jul 13, 2016 | Divorce

Divorce courts in New Jersey may help in deciding difficult matters related to the end of a marriage, but court battles can be costly. Nationally, the divorce rate tends to remain consistently in the range of 50 percent, which can also create a heavy load in the courts. To save both time and money, some couples might seek alternative avenues for terminating their marital ties.

Litigation is a type of divorce proceeding that is often pursued because of an inability to work together rationally. The outcome can be devastating in terms of stress for one’s children and the debt accumulated through the process. In contrast, an uncontested divorce can provide an efficient resolution of important financial decisions and custody plans. A couple that is willing to set aside differences to ensure that their marriage ends as amicably as possible can often resolve the action quickly and at a fraction of the cost of a litigated proceeding.

Both mediation and collaborative divorce can provide an approach to splitting up without the formality of going to court. In both cases, a couple could still go to court if the outcome is not deemed to be acceptable. However, this approach often allows negotiation to take place related to the most difficult issues. One or more lawyers could be involved depending on the process selected.

There may be cases in which litigation is the best option for an individual filing for divorce. Scenarios might include situations in which one party has a substantial interest in the other’s assets. Litigation might also be appropriate if there are safety concerns related to child custody and visitation. One way for an individual to find out about his or her options is to meet with a family law attorney.