How Long Does a Divorce Take in Bergen County?
If you are contemplating or going through a divorce in Bergen County, New Jersey, there are many factors that can affect how long the process takes. While you may want your divorce finalized quickly so you can move forward with your life, the timing is largely influenced by court schedules and the need to resolve all legal issues between you and your spouse—either through mutual agreement or court order.
Consulting a Bergen County divorce lawyer can provide a clearer picture of the timeline for your specific case.
What Is the Mandatory Waiting Period for Divorce in New Jersey?
The most common ground for divorce in New Jersey is irreconcilable differences. To file on this basis, you must show that you and your spouse have experienced irreconcilable differences for at least six months, and that there is no reasonable chance of reconciliation.
Additionally, New Jersey has a residency requirement: you or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least 12 months before filing (or six months if filing in the county where you reside).
Once these requirements are met, there is no further statutory waiting period to file. However, the law intentionally ensures a minimum time has passed to allow for the possibility of reconciliation.
Agreement on Key Divorce Issues
The timeline of your divorce can be extended if you and your spouse have difficulty agreeing on key legal issues, including:
Negotiating these issues often involves multiple rounds of discussion, typically through your attorneys. It may take months to reach an agreement, and in some cases, divorce mediation can be a helpful tool to resolve disputes more efficiently.
It is important to avoid rushing an agreement just to finalize the divorce quickly. Ensuring that your legal rights are fully protected and that the outcome is fair to you should be the priority.
Litigation Can Extend the Timeline
If you and your spouse cannot agree on all issues, the divorce may proceed to litigation. In these cases, there is no guaranteed timeline. You would be subject to the court’s docket and the dates scheduled by the judge. It is not uncommon for litigated divorces in New Jersey to take more than a year from start to finish.
Even in uncontested divorces, the timing can be influenced by court workload. Judges must review all filings, including the settlement agreement, before incorporating it into a court order. Delays can occur if there are questions or issues with the submitted documents.
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How Can a Bergen County Divorce Lawyer Help?
The experienced divorce attorneys at Marotta Blazini Dunleavy LLC guide clients through every stage of the divorce process. We review your unique circumstances and provide strategic legal advice tailored to your situation. Our team can help you:
Speak With Our Bergen County Divorce Lawyers at Marotta Blazini Dunleavy LLC to Learn More
If you are considering a divorce or need assistance with your case, contact our Bergen County divorce lawyers at Marotta Blazini Dunleavy LLC today for a free consultation. Call us at 201-368-7713 or submit our online contact form. Located in Maywood, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients throughout the surrounding areas, including Bergen County, Passaic County, Morris County, Essex County, and Hudson County.
Genevieve Blazini is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as Matrimonial Law Attorney, and is a Partner of the firm who specializes in assisting families with divorce and family law matters. Get in touch with Genevieve today.
Telephone: (201) 368-7713 Email: [email protected]
