Your Trusted Perth Amboy, NJ Family Law Attorney

Will Mediation Lead To A Legally Recognized Divorce?

Mediation is a way in which both parties can come to final agreements about marital property and post-nuptial arrangements. Mediation itself does not grant a divorce. A judge’s signature is required for any divorce to be legal.

If you and your partner have decided to divorce amicably, mediation will allow the chance to reach specific financial terms before filing for divorce. For clients in Perth Amboy, NJ, keep in mind that mediation is available any time before the finalization of a divorce.

However, obtaining a divorce still requires one party to file a petition and go through the process of having a judge sign off on the terms of the divorce. Mediation can make this process much smoother but doesn’t guarantee a better outcome. Contact a knowledgeable divorce lawyer so you know what all of your options are.

What Are The Steps To Obtaining A Divorce In New Jersey?

While mediation can make actual divorce proceedings easier, it happens before a divorce is granted. There are still quite a few steps to obtaining a divorce in Perth Amboy, NJ.

The divorce process in New Jersey follows these steps:

1. File a complaint for divorce, which will start the entire divorce process. This puts your intentions on paper and notifies the courts.
2. Next, you’ll receive an answer or counterclaim to the original complaint from your spouse.
3. Upon receipt of the counterclaim, you’ll enter the discovery period, where you’ll exchange case information statements and submit financial information.
4. Next, you’ll enter into the ESP (Early Settlement Panel Conference), wherein each party submits a statement establishing each party’s position on several issues. This statement will include items like alimony, child support, and the division of marital assets, like the home and other assets.
5. Then, you’ll both meet with divorce attorneys to discuss your case. In this step, the ESP attorney reviews the ESP statements, the case information statements, and any other information and makes recommendations. Here, you all can either accept or reject the recommendations.
6. If recommendations are rejected, you’ll attend Economic Mediation by meeting with one attorney who specializes in mediation. This step includes two free hours of mediation, but beyond that, the parties must pay out of pocket to continue using these mediation services. The goal here is to get you both to come to terms of agreement.
7. Next, if Economic Mediation doesn’t settle any disagreements, an Intense Settlement Conference is scheduled. Here, a judge will get involved to try and help resolve any outstanding issues. The divorce case will go to trial if issues aren’t resolved.

If your case goes to trial, it is imperative to have an experienced divorce attorney representing you. Unlike mediation, your divorce attorney is only going to fight on your behalf, so that you get the most ideal outcome.

Paul N. Mirabelli, Esq.: Premier Divorce Attorney Serving Perth Amboy, NJ

You deserve a skilled lawyer who will fight for you!

While going through a divorce can be difficult, it can be even more complicated when you don’t have the proper support. Attorney Mirabelli ensures you are never alone in your fight for a better life. A dedicated attorney who supports your is essential in obtaining the divorce terms you need.

If you are seeking a compassionate and experienced divorce attorney in Perth Amboy, NJ, call Paul N. Mirabelli, Esq. at (732) 733-2830 to schedule a consultation.