While you do not need a lawyer in order to get divorced in New Jersey, it is highly recommended that you consult with a legal professional. To learn more about your rights and options during this time, read on and speak with a skilled Sparta divorce attorney today.
Do I Need a Lawyer to Get Divorced in NJ?
No, you do not technically need a lawyer to get divorced in New Jersey. State law allows for “pro se” filing, meaning that you represent yourself during the case. The courts provide forms online that you have the right to download, complete, and file on your own, without the help of a legal professional.
People may choose a DIY divorce, as it is commonly referred to, when their case is simple and does not include complex issues. For example, it may be relatively easy to represent yourself in a divorce case where you and your spouse do not have children, have few assets, do not share debt, and agree on all major issues.
Why is Hiring a Lawyer Important During a Divorce?
Although you can get divorced without a lawyer, it is generally discouraged. The court recommends that all individuals filing for divorce or responding to a complaint speak to a lawyer to get a professional opinion.
Divorce law can be complex, and it is imperative that you complete each step of the process accurately and within the deadline you are given. Even those without legal representation are held to the same standards as attorneys, meaning that you must abide by the Rules of the Court, whether or not you are familiar with them.
Hiring a lawyer ensures that you are in compliance with the law every step of the way and that you will not incur legal consequences as a result of mistakes or misunderstandings.
How Much Does it Cost to Get Divorced Without a Lawyer in NJ?
The cost of getting divorced without a lawyer will vary depending on the specific circumstances of your situation. As the plaintiff (the spouse who files for divorce), you will be required to pay a filing fee of $300 when submitting the paperwork for the Official Complaint for Divorce.
Your spouse will face a $175 filing fee when they issue their formal response to being served with the papers. If either of you requests custody or parenting time, you will have to attend a parenting workshop, which costs $25 per person.
While these are often the only outright costs associated with a DIY divorce, you may face additional expenses like costs for medication, expert evaluations for property division or custody disputes, and service of process. Certified copies of court orders also have associated fees.
It is also important to consider the hidden costs of handling the process on your own. For example, if you make a mistake when dividing assets or calculating support, you could face taxes and financial penalties. While hiring a lawyer increases the upfront costs of your divorce, it could save you money in the long run by helping secure fair financial outcomes, protecting your custody rights, and preventing you from making costly mistakes. Reach out to a skilled attorney for more information today.