In January 2024, New Jersey recognized coercive control as a form of domestic abuse. Coercive control is defined as a pattern of purposeful behavior that is meant to exert, control, and coercive another individual over a period of time. There are many ways a manipulator might do this to someone, but one of the most…
When you are a victim of domestic violence, the first thing you need to do is feel safe. Unfortunately, the feeling of safety comes rare these days. That is why you need resources and information to get you started. In New Jersey, there are laws and support groups, as well as local authorities and national…
The realm of domestic abuse, be it physical or emotional, is expansive and getting even broader. In January 2024, New Jersey’s Governor Phil Murphy added coercive control to the definition of domestic abuse, prompting citizens to question what it means and what is involved. Coercive control is a form of abuse that aims to destabilize…
In a family law dispute, it is important to ensure that the children are represented fairly and that their best interests are considered. In New Jersey, as with several other states, there is something called “Guardian Ad Litem.” This unique and powerful role aids your child. Yet, what does a Guardian Ad Litem do and…
Individuals who have recently gone through a divorce may find themselves facing unique challenges when filing their returns. Divorce can have significant implications for your tax situation, affecting everything from your filing status to deductions and credits. Let’s take a look at how divorce impacts your tax returns, as well as some things to keep…
Courts in New Jersey assess child custody based on the best interests of the child or children involved. This means that there are specific factors that the court considers to decide which parent is the most adequate. Using substances, even legalized ones, can impact the ruling. As such, it is important to understand how an…
When going through a divorce, you encounter a breadth of challenges ranging from child support and alimony to the division of property. However, the one thing you may not have anticipated is the death of your spouse during your pending divorce. This unexpected event used to lead to the proceedings becoming even more convoluted. Fortunately,…
As in many states, New Jersey makes it possible for those who are victims of domestic violence or abuse to seek protections from their abusers. Typically, this is done by obtaining a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), which forces the abuser to give up firearms, distance himself/herself, and cease contacting the victim. If you find yourself…
In situations where the relationship between parents and adult children becomes strained, grandparents often find themselves denied access to their grandchildren. However, when open communication fails to resolve the issue, grandparents in New Jersey have the legal right to petition the courts for visitation under Rule N.J.S.A. 9:2-7.1. While this doesn’t guarantee immediate reunion, it…
In recent years, there has been a notable uptick in the phenomenon known as “gray divorce” — the dissolution of marriages among older adults, typically aged 50 and above. This trend, which has captured the attention of researchers and divorce attorneys alike, raises important questions about the factors driving this increase and the implications it…
In the digital age, social media has woven itself into the fabric of our daily lives, transforming the landscape of family law cases. From divorce proceedings to custody battles, the impact of online platforms cannot be ignored. If you are currently involved in a family law case, it is important to consider the profound influence…
Alimony is a financial payment that is ordered by the court to support the spouse who may be unable to support the quality of life without his or her partner. If you are planning on separating from your spouse or have begun the divorce process, you may be wondering how much alimony you may receive…
Restraining orders in New Jersey can be a complex legal issue, impacting your life in ways you might not expect. These orders, also known as domestic violence restraining orders (DVROs), are issued by the court to protect individuals from potential harm in domestic relationships. While their purpose is to ensure safety, restraining orders can have…
Domestic violence is a horrifying reality for far too many people in New Jersey. Statistics reveal that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner [Source: NJ Coalition to End Domestic Violence). If you are experiencing domestic violence, it’s crucial to understand that…
In recent years, there have been a lack of judges in New Jersey, meaning a backlog of cases regarding family law issues. Unfortunately, this lack of judges means that those awaiting a divorce may find themselves impeded. While this can be upsetting, it is important to understand why there are judicial vacancies, as well as…
As the breadwinner of the family, you most likely spent a lot of time providing for your family and ensuring they had everything they need to be comfortable. Unfortunately, being the one who earns more money often means greater complications in a divorce. Understanding your obligations and rights is crucial to navigating this complex time.…
