3 Tips for a Cheap Divorce in NJ

For most couples looking for a cheap divorce in NJ, you don’t want to break the bank just to split up but you also don’t want to get ripped off.  And while the legal system isn’t exactly user-friendly the reality is for most couples doing it yourself, isn’t exactly an option. But the good news is there are a number of ways to save significant sums of money on your divorce and by following these 3 tips for a cheap divorce in NJ, you can save tens of thousands in unnecessary legal fees.

1. Recognize that the time for arguing is over – one thing that causes people to spend tons of money to get divorced is that they and their lawyers look at it like a battle where every point is something to be argued about and fought to the death.  The reality is the law is the law here in NJ and so whether you like it or not the outcome for 99.33% of couples who divorce in NJ is exactly the same or falls within some relatively similar range.  If you think being one of the lucky 2/3rds of 1% of people who actually litigate to try and get a different outcome is worth $200,000, please be my guest.  But if you’re looking for a cheap divorce in NJ, this isn’t the way.
2. Cooperate with your legal practitioner – it’s no secret what is needed to get divorced.  The discovery items, the process, the issues and the forms, it’s really all the same whether you make a $25,000 a year or $250,000 a year.  Sure there are more zeros on the end of the numbers in the rich couples settlement but at the end of the day it all boils down to the same things: tax returns, pay stubs, credit card statements, etc. By cooperating with preferably your NJ divorce mediator, you can and should provide the necessary documentation and make the necessary decisions to move the process forward.  If you’re looking for a cheap divorce in NJ, one of the best ways I know how to do this is to be prepared and present everything that is asked of you.
3. Use divorce mediation in New Jersey - it’s a fact: divorce mediation in New Jersey costs anywhere from $29,000 to $76,000 less on average than using attorneys or litigating.  If you’re looking for a cheap divorce in NJ that isn’t one of those fly by night Internet divorce providers for $399, then go the mediation route.  Divorce is an extremely complex process and marriage creates a significant number of legal entanglements that make getting a proper divorce an advanced task.  No book of forms or some guy in a strip mall is going to be able to help you properly settle your issues.

Have any items you’d like to share that can help divorcing couples pursue a cheap divorce in NJ?  Feel free to comment below or give us a call if you have questions about the divorce and mediation process.

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Joseph Dillon is a NJ divorce mediator and Managing Partner of Equitable Mediation Services – a New Jersey based firm that provides client with divorce mediation in New Jersey and divorce coaching services to clients throughout the United States.  Mr. Dillon may be reached at (908) 864-2177.