Divorce is a significant legal and personal transition that can take different paths depending on whether it is contested or uncontested. Regardless of the type, effective legal representation can make a meaningful difference in reaching a fair outcome.
At Marotta Blazini Dunleavy LLC, our Maywood contested and uncontested divorce lawyers provide skilled guidance to clients throughout Bergen County. We handle each case with care and attention to its specific circumstances. Whether litigation is necessary or an agreement can be reached through negotiation, our team pursues fair and practical resolutions for every client.
A contested divorce arises when spouses cannot reach an agreement on one or more significant issues, such as asset division, parenting time, or spousal support. In these cases, court intervention may be necessary to finalize the agreement. An uncontested divorce occurs when both parties agree on all terms of the separation and can submit their settlement to the court for approval.
While uncontested divorces usually take less time and involve fewer expenses, both types of cases still require careful legal attention to protect individual interests.
Contested divorces frequently involve disputes about financial matters, including division of marital assets, business ownership interests, or retirement accounts. Disagreements may also arise over child custody arrangements or the payment and amount of spousal support.
Because these disputes can significantly affect future financial and family stability, it is important for each party to have a clear presentation of their position supported by documentation and testimony. Our Maywood contested and uncontested divorce lawyers address each issue systematically to reach equitable resolutions.
An uncontested divorce may be appropriate when both spouses agree on how to divide property, allocate debts, and handle child custody and support. We often recommend it to clients who have already discussed their arrangements and prefer to formalize them through the legal system without prolonged litigation.
Our Maywood contested and uncontested divorce lawyers help finalize these agreements properly and in compliance with New Jersey law.
New Jersey follows the principle of equitable distribution, which means that marital property is divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. Courts consider the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial contributions, and their future economic circumstances.
Separate property (assets acquired before the marriage or received as gifts or inheritances) usually remains with the original owner. Comprehensive documentation and strategic analysis are important components of property division for divorcing spouses.
Custody decisions in New Jersey prioritize the best interests of the child. Courts evaluate various factors, including the parents’ ability to cooperate, the stability of each home environment, the child’s relationship with each parent, and, when appropriate, the child’s preferences.
Parenting time schedules are designed to promote consistent relationships with both parents whenever possible. Our Maywood contested and uncontested divorce lawyers help clients design parenting plans that balance a child’s needs with the rights and responsibilities of each parent.
Spousal support, also known as alimony, may be awarded when one spouse requires financial assistance to maintain a standard of living reasonably comparable to that established during the marriage. The amount and duration depend on the length of the marriage, each party’s income and earning potential, and the standard of living during the relationship. The goal is to promote fairness, not punishment. Both contested and uncontested divorces may involve spousal support considerations.
That depends on the nature of the case. Uncontested divorces can often be finalized within a few months once all paperwork is completed and filed. Contested divorces may take significantly longer due to the need for discovery, negotiations, and possible court hearings.
The court’s schedule, the complexity of financial disclosures, and the willingness of both parties to cooperate also influence the duration.
Even in cases where both parties are cooperative, divorce involves detailed legal requirements that must be completed correctly; errors that could result in financial loss or future disputes. Attorneys evaluate settlement proposals, draft binding agreements, and represent clients in hearings if disagreements arise.
Our Maywood contested and uncontested divorce lawyers handle these procedural and substantive matters with precision, helping clients move forward with confidence.
Certain aspects of a divorce judgment, such as child support, custody, and alimony, can be modified after the divorce is finalized if there is a significant change in circumstances. For example, changes in income, employment, health, or the needs of a child may justify an adjustment. Property division, however, is typically permanent unless fraud or concealment is proven.
It is beneficial to bring financial records, documentation of assets and debts, tax returns, and any prior agreements related to property or children. These materials allow the attorney to assess the case accurately and recommend an appropriate course of action. The consultation is an opportunity to discuss priorities, ask questions about the process, and gain clarity about the next steps.
Mediation offers an alternative method for resolving disputes outside of court, when a neutral third-party mediator helps both sides communicate and attempt to reach an agreement.
Although participation is typically voluntary, many courts encourage mediation before proceeding to trial. Mediation can save time and expense while allowing both parties more control over the outcome.
Our firm’s attorneys approach every divorce case with attention to the legal and personal aspects involved. We assess each client’s priorities, identify key issues, and pursue resolutions that reflect both fairness and practicality under NJ law. Whether litigation is necessary or an uncontested settlement is reached, our clients receive structured legal guidance throughout the process.
Our reputation for diligence and professionalism has made us a trusted resource for spouses facing divorce in the Maywood area.
If you need experienced legal guidance, contact our Maywood contested and uncontested divorce lawyers at Marotta Blazini Dunleavy LLC. Call 201-368-7713 or complete our online form today for a free consultation. Located in Maywood, New Jersey, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.
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