Legal Separation in Bergen County
New Jersey does not have a formal proceeding for a legal separation. A spouse can leave the martial home if he or she wants,but must address his or her responsibilities while living separately without a formal divorce.
Although you cannot get a legal separation in Bergen County, the law firm of Rubenstein, Meyerson, Fox, Mancinelli & Conte, P.A., can assist clients who do not want to file divorce. Several options are available and we can help you choose one that is right for you.
Bergen County separation from bed and board
New Jersey law does allow for a divorce from bed and board. This proceeding was popular in the 1950s, but it lost some of its favor as divorce became more accepted. The courts effectively divorce the couple financially, but they remain legally married.
In a divorce and separation from bed and board, the spouses must decide the following:
- Equitable distribution of assets
- Equitable division of debts
- Child custody
- Child support
Many times, these types of separations in Bergen County do not allow for spousal support.
Protect yourself with a Bergen County separation agreement
A judge generally decides the marital issues in a divorce from bed and board if the couple does not do so themselves. The best way to document your decisions is with a separation agreement.
Our law firm helps clients mediate conflicts and set their agreement on paper. Afterwards, we present the agreement to the court for approval. If the judge sees that the separation agreement treats one spouse unfairly, he or she will not approve it. We make sure that the spouses have equal rights and responsibilities while they live separately.
Why choose separation instead of divorce in Bergen County
Couples choose to separate but remain married for many reasons. Some reasons to choose a separation include:
- Need to live separately before filing for no fault divorce
- Need to remain married for insurance benefits
- Need to remain married for social security benefits
- Religiously opposed to divorce
Real help for Bergen County separation and divorce clients
Rubenstein, Meyerson, Fox, Mancinelli & Conte, P.A. helps clients through some of the most difficult periods in their lives. Aside from family law and mediation, we offer clients the following services:
Contact us online to discuss a separation in Bergen County. We offer real help for people with real problems. We put our years of experience to work for you.
Call 1 (201) 802-9202 to get help with a Bergen County separation agreement
