When you have a blended family and are seeking divorce, you may find yourself faced with custody and visitation challenges. New Jersey courts work hard to ensure that families going through divorce see a fair result and that the children are taken care of. However, blended families do present unique circumstances. Understanding your rights and…
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…
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…
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 New Jersey, the best interests of the child are always on the mind of the court system. That means that anything that could harm the child may be deemed an emergency, and you may find yourself seeking an emergency child custody hearing to ensure the child is kept out of danger. Emergency child custody…
When married and separating, child custody is relatively cut and dry, depending on the situation. Most parents opt for joint custody, unless one is deemed unfit. However, what happens when the parents are not married and deciding to separate? In New Jersey, determining child custody when parents are unmarried involves specific considerations and legal processes…
Navigating custody arrangements can be challenging, especially during the summer months when school is out. In New Jersey, like in many other states, custody agreements must consider not only the child’s best interests but also the practicalities of summer activities and schedules. From summer camps to vacations and passport issues, there are numerous factors to…
There are two types of custody in New Jersey, legal custody and physical custody. Below, we will discuss the topic of physical custody. Physical custody is one of the most pressing topics in a divorce. Many parents in New Jersey who have ended their marriage still retain physical custody of their children. Joint physical custody,…
Custody battles are challenging, complex, and emotionally charged. Both parties usually want to be able to see their children. Although custody is decided based on the best interests of the child, what happens when the child has his or her own preference? In New Jersey, does a child’s preference impact a custody decision? Let’s discuss…
In New Jersey, there are generally no specific residency requirements for filing for child custody. However, New Jersey courts typically have jurisdiction over child custody cases if the child has lived in New Jersey for a significant period or if New Jersey is the child’s “home state.” The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act…