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…
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…
Child support in New Jersey is typically ordered by the court to ensure that both parents contribute to the financial well-being of their child(ren) after a divorce or separation. Child support is intended to cover various expenses related to the child’s upbringing, including but not limited to: Basic Necessities: Child support is meant to cover…
In New Jersey, while there’s no formal status for legal separation, couples can still file for a divorce from bed and board, which is akin to a legal separation. It allows couples to live separately and resolve matters such as asset division and child custody without officially ending the marriage. Here’s a step-by-step guide to…