For various reasons, some New Jersey parents may decide it best to surrender their parental rights. While such actions are both legally permissible and advisable in certain situations, guardians remain bound by state rules pertaining to adoption actions.
What physical custody options exist in New Jersey?
As parents go through the divorce process, decisions must be made regarding the care and support of their children. There are various legal and physical scenarios that may occur, and it is important to understand that physical custody is different than visitation, also known as parenting time. In some cases, one parent is awarded sole physical custody, but parenting time is ordered so that the non-custodial parent can spend time with and maintain a close relationship with the child. In other cases, the physical custody is shared jointly.
New Jersey couples who split may benefit from mediation
Getting divorced is a huge life change, but it doesn't have to be a harrowing one. The laws on separation and divorce are extremely clear; state code covers a host of related issues such as child support, custody arrangements, property division and even the timelines that families need to follow during the formal court process. Unfortunately, the drawback of having so many rules is that they can be extremely confusing to the families that rely on them most. At Cipriano Law Offices, P.C., we work hard to help identify which laws apply to a unique case and make a better choice about how to proceed.
Parenting plans in New Jersey
Parents in New Jersey may benefit from reviewing some of the state laws that govern parenting time and custody. The state recognizes that divorce and separation can have significant effects on the relationships between parents and children. The Child Access and Parenting Time Advisory Group published a pamphlet focused on providing information about parenting plans as well as potential remedies for disputes over visitation rights.
Overview of ending a marriage
New Jersey allows someone to file for divorce within certain periods dependent upon the reasons listed for ending the marriage. In cases of adultery, the court does not require a waiting period. When a spouse charges extreme cruelty, the person can file after three months. In cases of desertion, the abandoned spouse must wait a year. The courts also permit "no-fault" divorce and allow for the filing of divorce after 18 months of the couple living separately.
