Bergen County Divorce Lawyers
At Cipriano Law Offices, P.C., we provide experienced, nuanced divorce counsel to people throughout Bergen County and the surrounding area. Our divorce attorneys have the knowledge, reputation and compassion to represent you during this challenging time.
Led by attorney Melissa Cipriano, our team of five lawyers works together to ensure we tailor our representation to your specific circumstances. You will have the right lawyers on your side, each with the unique strengths required for resolving your divorce. Attorney Cipriano is known for her extensive financial background, which is beneficial for all clients, including those with a high net worth. Contact us today to arrange a free consultation with an experienced divorce attorney.
What Is The Divorce Process In Bergen County?
The steps in a Bergen County divorce start with one person filing a divorce complaint with the Bergen County Superior Court, Family Court division. The other spouse must then file an answer within 35 days, or a counterclaim, if they wish.
The spouses will then provide their financial information by each filing a Case Information Statement (CIS).
The court requires that the couple use various means to see if they can reach a settlement, including:
- An early settlement panel (ESP)
- Economic mediation to try to settle any financial issues
- Intensive settlement conference (ISC)
If none of these attempts result in a settlement, the couple will take the case to trial. This can be risky because a judge will have the final decision on the issues. You may want to discuss whether private mediation may produce a favorable outcome that avoids going to trial. Three of our lawyers, including Melissa Cipriano, are certified New Jersey mediators.
Bergen County Divorce Matters We Handle
Our full-service divorce practice encompasses all aspects of contested and uncontested divorce, including:
- Property division in standard and high-asset divorces
- Divorce for business owners and other professionals
- Alimony determination (paying or receiving)
- Child custody and parenting time agreements
- Allocation of child support
- Divorce for people over 50 (gray divorce)
- Divorce for same-sex couples
- Post-decree modifications
We can assist you with any divorce-related matter, including complex issues such as hidden assets and wasted assets. Our firm has a network of financial experts and other experts to ensure that these matters are managed appropriately.
Our Firm’s Unique Approach To Bergen County Divorce
With our considerable experience in Bergen County, we are well known to the local judges, court staff and legal community. Our attorneys have earned a reputation for professionalism and have productive working relationships with other divorce lawyers in the area. We have a thorough understanding of New Jersey divorce law and related financial concerns.
The majority of divorces are resolved through mediation or negotiation. However, there are some cases in which the parties cannot agree on the terms of the divorce. In these instances, we are prepared to go to trial to protect our clients’ best interests. We also look to the future, focusing on your long-term financial goals instead of just seeking short-term gains.
With more than 100 years of combined experience, we have the knowledge and real-world experience you need. Melissa Cipriano and additional attorneys at Cipriano Law Offices, P.C., have been recognized by being named to the New Jersey Super Lawyers and the Super Lawyers Rising Stars lists for their knowledge, success and dedication to their clients.
Is New Jersey A 50-50 State For Property Division?
No, property is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. New Jersey adheres to the principle of equitable distribution, which means that marital assets will be distributed in a manner that is fair, but that may not mean that it is a 50-50 split. The marital property is subject to division, while separate property is typically not divided between the parties. Separate property comprises assets such as property/assets owned prior to the marriage, gifts to one spouse and inheritances.
What Are The Grounds For Divorce In New Jersey?
You can file for divorce based on no-fault grounds, which include irreconcilable differences or a separation of 18 months or more.
There are also fault-based grounds, which range from adultery and extreme cruelty to being in prison for at least 18 months or in a mental institution.
Your Choice Of An Attorney Matters
Speak with us today regarding your Bergen County divorce needs. For a free consultation, please call 973-852-3346 or send us an email.