Getting a divorce can be a challenging and overwhelming experience, especially when it comes to navigating the complex process of obtaining printable divorce papers in New Jersey. However, with the right guidance, you can make the process easier and less stressful. In this article, we will walk you through the 5 steps to get printable divorce papers in NJ, providing you with the information you need to move forward with confidence.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility for Divorce in New Jersey
Before you can start the divorce process, you need to determine if you are eligible to get a divorce in New Jersey. To be eligible, you or your spouse must have been a resident of the state for at least 12 months prior to filing for divorce. Additionally, you must have grounds for divorce, which can include irreconcilable differences, adultery, desertion, or extreme cruelty, among others.
Grounds for Divorce in New Jersey
New Jersey recognizes several grounds for divorce, including:
- Irreconcilable differences
- Adultery
- Desertion
- Extreme cruelty
- Imprisonment
- Deviant sexual conduct
- Institutionalization for mental illness
Step 2: Choose the Type of Divorce You Want to File For
In New Jersey, you can file for either a contested or uncontested divorce. A contested divorce is when you and your spouse cannot agree on the terms of the divorce, such as child custody, property division, and spousal support. An uncontested divorce is when you and your spouse agree on all the terms of the divorce.
Uncontested Divorce in New Jersey
If you and your spouse agree on all the terms of the divorce, you can file for an uncontested divorce. This type of divorce is less expensive and less time-consuming than a contested divorce. To file for an uncontested divorce, you will need to submit a joint petition for divorce, which must include:
- A statement of the grounds for divorce
- A statement of the marriage and the names and ages of any children
- A statement of the property and debts of the parties
- A statement of the spousal support and child support arrangements
Step 3: Prepare the Necessary Documents
To get printable divorce papers in NJ, you will need to prepare the necessary documents. These documents include:
- A complaint for divorce
- A verification form
- A certification of non-military service
- A property settlement agreement (if applicable)
- A child custody and support agreement (if applicable)
Complaint for Divorce
The complaint for divorce is the document that initiates the divorce process. It must include:
- A statement of the grounds for divorce
- A statement of the marriage and the names and ages of any children
- A statement of the property and debts of the parties
- A statement of the spousal support and child support arrangements
Step 4: File the Documents with the Court
Once you have prepared the necessary documents, you will need to file them with the court. You can file the documents in person or by mail. If you file in person, you will need to take the documents to the courthouse and submit them to the clerk's office. If you file by mail, you will need to send the documents to the court's mailing address.
Filing Fees
There is a filing fee associated with filing for divorce in New Jersey. The fee is currently $250, but it is subject to change. You will need to pay the fee when you file the documents with the court.
Step 5: Serve the Documents on Your Spouse
After you have filed the documents with the court, you will need to serve them on your spouse. You can serve the documents in person or by certified mail. If you serve the documents in person, you will need to hire a process server to deliver the documents to your spouse. If you serve the documents by certified mail, you will need to send them to your spouse's address and obtain a signed receipt.
Service by Certified Mail
If you serve the documents by certified mail, you will need to:
- Send the documents to your spouse's address
- Obtain a signed receipt from your spouse
- File the receipt with the court
Getting printable divorce papers in NJ can be a complex and time-consuming process. However, by following these 5 steps, you can make the process easier and less stressful. Remember to determine your eligibility for divorce, choose the type of divorce you want to file for, prepare the necessary documents, file the documents with the court, and serve the documents on your spouse.
What are the grounds for divorce in New Jersey?
+New Jersey recognizes several grounds for divorce, including irreconcilable differences, adultery, desertion, extreme cruelty, imprisonment, deviant sexual conduct, and institutionalization for mental illness.
How do I file for an uncontested divorce in New Jersey?
+To file for an uncontested divorce in New Jersey, you will need to submit a joint petition for divorce, which must include a statement of the grounds for divorce, a statement of the marriage and the names and ages of any children, a statement of the property and debts of the parties, and a statement of the spousal support and child support arrangements.
What is the filing fee for divorce in New Jersey?
+The filing fee for divorce in New Jersey is currently $250, but it is subject to change.