2. The Major Issues

In any divorce proceeding, there are four major issues: (1) custody; (2) child support; (3) alimony; and (4) division of property. Of course, not every issue needs to be litigated in every case. For example, many married couples do not have children. Thus, custody and child support would be off the table. Moreover, in marriages that are very short in duration, the parties may not need to resolve alimony and equitable distribution. In most cases, however, all four major issue are on the table.

A substantial body of law has been built up around each issue. The State Legislature and Courts are always trying to address the wide range of circumstances in which New Jersey families find themselves. Moreover, as public opinion changes, the laws change too. (For example, there was once a presumption that a child’s mother would be awarded custody. That presumption no longer exists. In fact, members of the New Jersey Legislature have proposed laws that would create a presumption of 50/50 custody. It is not clear whether such proposals will be adopted.) Therefore, it is critical to stay on top of actual and upcoming changes — one more reason to hire a qualified divorce attorney. 

The divorce process will not be concluded until all major issues have been resolved, whether by an agreement between the parties or by an Order of the Court.