Contested Divorce Lawyer Burlington County — What Happens When You Can’t Agree?

A contested divorce in Burlington County, governed by New Jersey statutes, requires formal litigation when spouses cannot agree on key issues like asset division or child custody. As your contested divorce lawyer Burlington County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides direct trial representation. We have documented results in Burlington County Family Court, handling the full contested divorce process.

Understanding a Contested Divorce in New Jersey

In New Jersey, a divorce becomes contested when one spouse files a Complaint for Divorce and the other spouse files an Answer that disputes the grounds for divorce or the terms requested. Unlike an uncontested divorce settled through a marital settlement agreement, a contested case proceeds through discovery, motions, and potentially a trial before a judge in the Burlington County Superior Court, Family Part. The court must resolve the disputed issues, which can include alimony, equitable distribution of property, child support, and parenting time.

Last verified: April 2026 | Burlington County Superior Court, Family Part | New Jersey Legislature

Official Legal Resources

For the official statutes governing divorce in New Jersey, refer to the New Jersey Legislature website. For local court rules and procedures, visit the Burlington Vicinage of the New Jersey Courts.

The Contested Divorce Process in Burlington County

The contested divorce process lawyer Burlington County clients work with must be prepared for a structured legal battle. In Burlington County, contested cases are closely managed by the Family Part judges, who often require early settlement conferences. The court’s case management officers actively push for resolution, but if settlement fails, the case moves toward trial. A key local procedural fact is that the Burlington County Family Part requires mandatory mediation for custody and parenting time disputes before a trial date will be set, emphasizing the court’s preference for negotiated agreements.

1. Filing and Service: One spouse files a Complaint for Divorce with the Burlington County Superior Court and serves it on the other spouse.
2. Answer and Counterclaim: The served spouse has 35 days to file an Answer, which may include a Counterclaim, formally contesting the issues.
3. Case Management and Discovery: The court schedules a case management conference. Both parties exchange financial documents and other evidence through the discovery process.
4. Motions and Conferences: Parties may file motions for temporary support or custody. The court will order mediation for custody disputes and may schedule an Early Settlement Panel.
5. Trial Preparation: If settlement fails, both sides prepare for trial, subpoenaing witnesses and finalizing evidence.
6. Trial: A judge in the Burlington County Family Part hears testimony, reviews evidence, and issues a final judgment deciding all contested matters.

Potential Outcomes and Considerations

In Burlington County, a judge in a contested divorce decides all unresolved issues, including equitable distribution of marital assets, alimony, child custody (now called parenting time and decision-making responsibility), and child support based on New Jersey guidelines.

While specific outcomes depend on the unique facts of each case, the court’s decisions are guided by New Jersey law. The process is adversarial and can be lengthy and emotionally taxing. Having a lawyer focused on contested divorce trial representation lawyer Burlington County cases is critical to presenting your position effectively and protecting your rights throughout litigation.

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burlington County Contested Divorce

Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a trial-ready approach to family law. Our firm operates on the principle of “Advocacy Without Borders,” providing assertive representation in the courtroom. We understand that a contested divorce is essentially a lawsuit, and we prepare each case with the diligence required for trial. Our experience spans financial discovery, experienced witness testimony, and the nuanced advocacy required in Burlington County Family Court.

Approach to Contested Divorce Representation

We approach every contested divorce with a focus on building the strongest possible case for trial, which often encourages more favorable settlement offers. Our process involves a thorough investigation of marital assets, analysis of income for support calculations, and development of a parenting plan supported by evidence. We guide clients through each stage, from filing the initial complaint to cross-examining witnesses at trial, ensuring they understand their options and the potential consequences of each decision.

Local Presence and Accessibility

Our firm is positioned to serve clients throughout Burlington County. We are familiar with the local court personnel, rules, and procedures, which can impact case strategy and timing. Whether your case is in Mount Holly or another municipality, we provide accessible legal support for one of life’s most difficult challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions: Contested Divorce in Burlington County

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Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.