Dissolution of Marriage Lawyer Union County, NJ — What Are Your Options?
A dissolution of marriage in Union County, New Jersey, is a legal process governed by N.J.S.A. 2A:34-2. The Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage handles all filings. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for this process, from filing the complaint to final judgment. We help you understand the mandatory steps, including the Early Settlement Panel. Contact us for a case-specific approach.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
In New Jersey, the legal term for divorce is “dissolution of marriage.” The process is governed by state statute and requires filing a complaint in the Superior Court. New Jersey is a “no-fault” state, meaning you can file based on irreconcilable differences that have existed for at least six months. The court will address key issues like equitable distribution of assets and debts, alimony, child custody, and child support. A dissolution of marriage lawyer Union County can guide you through each legal requirement.
The statutory grounds for dissolution are found in N.J.S.A. 2A:34-2. All cases for Union County residents are filed at the Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage in Elizabeth. The court’s procedures are specific, and having an attorney familiar with the local rules is important.
- File a Complaint for Divorce with the Union County Superior Court, stating the grounds.
- Serve the complaint and summons on your spouse according to court rules.
- Both parties complete and exchange mandatory Case Information Statements (financial disclosures).
- Attend the court’s mandatory Early Settlement Panel session.
- If unresolved, proceed through discovery and case management conferences.
- Attend a final hearing or trial before a judge to obtain the Judgment of Divorce.
In Union County, a dissolution of marriage involves the legal termination of a marriage and addresses the division of property, potential alimony, and, if applicable, child-related matters.
| Issue | Legal Standard in NJ | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Asset/Debt Division | Equitable Distribution | Fair, not necessarily equal, division |
| Alimony | Reformed Statute (N.J.S.A. 2A:34-23) | Durational, open durational, or rehabilitative |
| Child Custody | Best Interests of the Child (14 factors) | Legal and physical custody arrangement |
| Child Support | NJ Child Support Guidelines | Calculation based on income shares model |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. We have a documented record of 4,739+ case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of New Jersey family law statutes and local court procedures.
Our team has extensive experience with dissolution of marriage cases in New Jersey. For example, we have successfully navigated the Early Settlement Panel process in Union County to reach favorable settlements for our clients. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney, leads our family law practice with a focus on strategic case management.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Union County, including Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, Scotch Plains, and Cranford. We are an affordable dissolution of marriage lawyer Union County residents can consult. As a dissolution of marriage lawyer near me Union County clients trust, we offer accessible representation.
Dissolution of Marriage in Union County: Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Union County, New Jersey?
It depends. An uncontested divorce may take 3-4 months from filing. A contested case typically takes 8-18 months. The mandatory Early Settlement Panel is scheduled 6-9 months after filing. Complex cases with business valuations can take 12-24 months. Temporary motions are usually heard within 30-60 days.
How much does a divorce cost in Union County, NJ?
The Superior Court filing fee is $300 plus a $25 surcharge ($325 total). Service of process costs $25-$100. Attorney fees vary based on case complexity. The mandatory Case Information Statement requires attorney time to prepare. Parenting classes cost approximately $25-$50. Mediation fees range from $100-$350 per hour.
How is alimony calculated in New Jersey?
New Jersey alimony law was reformed in 2014. Durational alimony is generally limited to the length of the marriage for marriages under 20 years. For marriages of 20+ years, open durational alimony may be awarded. The court considers factors like the length of the marriage, each party’s income and earning capacity, and the standard of living during the marriage.
How does child custody work in Union County, NJ?
New Jersey uses the “best interests of the child” standard, evaluating 14 statutory factors. There is no presumption favoring either parent. The Union County Superior Court Family Division handles all custody matters. The court may appoint a parenting coordinator in high-conflict cases to help parents implement the custody plan.
What is the difference between dissolution of marriage and legal separation in NJ?
No. New Jersey does not have a formal “legal separation” statute. Instead, spouses can enter into a detailed separation agreement that addresses all divorce-related issues (assets, support, custody) without actually divorcing. This agreement can be incorporated into a future divorce judgment. A dissolution of marriage legally ends the marriage.
For more information, see our New Jersey Family Law overview. We also assist with related matters like criminal defense in Union County. If you are in a neighboring area, consider our family law services in Somerset County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current guidance on dissolution of marriage in Union County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Under Va. Code § 13.1-1000 et seq., state law governs this practice area.
For the full picture beyond Union County, our page on dissolution of marriage lawyer in New Jersey covers the process end to end.