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…
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…
Restraining orders are critical legal tools designed to protect individuals from harassment, abuse, and threats. In New Jersey, these orders serve to safeguard victims of domestic violence and other harmful behaviors by legally restricting the actions of the abuser. Understanding the dual nature of restraining orders is essential, as these cases often intersect family and…
Sometimes your marriage begins to dissolve because you realize that you and your spouse are two very different people who don’t see eye to eye on the most important aspects of your lives. When that happens, you can get a divorce due to “irreconcilable differences,” which serves as grounds for a no-fault divorce in New…
In New Jersey, whether you can receive probation or parole instead of jail time for a drug offense depends on several factors including the specifics of your case, your criminal history, and the discretion of the judge. New Jersey does have alternatives to incarceration for certain drug offenses, such as drug court programs, probation, and…
Yes, New Jersey offers alternative sentencing options and diversion programs for non-violent drug offenders. Some of these programs aim to address substance abuse issues and provide rehabilitation rather than punishment. Here are a few examples: Pretrial Intervention (PTI): This program allows eligible defendants to avoid prosecution by completing a period of supervision, which may include drug…
Navigating child custody proceedings can be one of the most challenging aspects of a divorce or separation, especially when parents disagree on custody arrangements. In New Jersey, the welfare of the child is paramount in determining custody arrangements, with courts striving to ensure that children maintain healthy relationships with both parents whenever possible. However, there are circumstances…
Some people who are experiencing marital discord might be unsure whether to file for divorce or instead separate to try to work out their differences. Others do want to separate and have no plans to reconcile but also do not want to divorce because of religious, financial, moral, or other reasons. If you want to separate from…
In New Jersey, victims of domestic violence, abuse, stalking, and—under the new VASPA law—cyber stalking and bullying, can obtain protective orders to protect them from such abuse. The ability to receive restraining orders has been around since the 1991 Prevention of Domestic Violence Act (N.J. Stat. §§ 2C:25-17 and 25-35). There are two main types of restraining orders in…
You have gone through with the separation and want to move on with your life. For many, that may mean seeking out another partner. Yet, you have to stop and ask yourself, “Is it legal to date during separation?” After all, you are not technically divorced yet. If you plan on dating during your legal…