Divorce Lawyer Bergen County, NJ
If you are facing a divorce in Bergen County, New Jersey, the process can feel overwhelming. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we provide experienced family law representation to clients throughout Bergen County, from Hackensack and Fort Lee to Paramus, Ridgewood, and beyond. Our firm, practicing since 1997, concentrates on guiding individuals through the divorce process — whether the matter is uncontested or involves contested custody, equitable distribution of significant assets, or complex support disputes. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder, leads a team of dedicated Of Counsel attorneys who appear in Bergen County Superior Court. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.
Divorce and Family Law in Bergen County, NJ
Bergen County divorce and family law matters are heard in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Chancery Division — Family Part, at 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601. New Jersey is an equitable distribution state, meaning that marital property is divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. The grounds for divorce are set out in New Jersey law, with the most commonly used no-fault ground being irreconcilable differences. For a divorce based on irreconcilable differences, the couple must have experienced those differences for at least six months prior to filing.
Bergen County Superior Court handles the full range of family law issues, including divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, and domestic violence matters. A distinctive procedural feature in New Jersey is the mandatory Early Settlement Panel (ESP). Before a contested divorce can proceed to trial, the attorneys for each side present their positions to a panel of experienced retired judges, who then recommend settlement terms. Many cases resolve at the ESP stage. The court also requires both parties to file detailed Case Information Statements (CIS), which are sworn financial disclosures. Filing fees in Bergen County are $325 (inclusive of the court surcharge), and service of process costs $25–$100. Uncontested divorces typically take 3–4 months from filing, while contested cases involving custody evaluations, business valuations, or pension division may take 8–18 months or longer.
Alimony in New Jersey was substantially reformed in 2014. Under current law, durational alimony is generally limited to the length of the marriage for marriages that lasted fewer than 20 years. For marriages of 20 years or longer, open durational alimony may be awarded. Cohabitation by the recipient spouse can be a basis to modify or terminate alimony. Child custody decisions are governed by the best interests of the child standard, with the court weighing 14 statutory factors. Child support is calculated under the New Jersey Child Support Guidelines, which use an income-shares model.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Divorce and Family Law Cases
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team approach each Bergen County divorce matter by first developing a thorough understanding of the client’s objectives — whether that is reaching a swift uncontested resolution, preserving a business interest, or securing a parenting arrangement that protects a child’s well-being. They then apply a multi-state perspective shaped by Mr. Sris’s experience practicing across five jurisdictions, including New Jersey, to identify strategic advantages in discovery, motion practice, and settlement negotiation.
In contested cases, the team prepares for every stage of the process. They assist clients with the mandatory CIS disclosures, work with financial professionals to value complex assets such as stock options, professional practices, or retirement accounts, and utilize the ESP session effectively to seek a resolution that avoids trial. When trial is necessary, they present a well-prepared case before the Bergen County Family Part judge. Throughout, they keep the client informed about the timeline, the strengths and weaknesses of the legal position, and realistic expectations. Because each situation is unique, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel tailor the legal strategy to the specific facts of the case.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. A former prosecutor, he has been practicing law since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), a measure that revised Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. He brings that legislative insight and a thorough understanding of family law to every matter he handles. Over 120 years of combined legal experience between Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel support the firm’s work in Bergen County. Results may vary.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys work collaboratively with Mr. Sris, contributing extensive experience in divorce, custody, support, and high‑net‑worth property division. All are Of Counsel; the firm has no associates or partners. Together, the team draws on the firm’s documented history of over 4,739 case results to represent Bergen County clients effectively. Results may vary. To discuss your situation and learn how we may assist you, call (888) 437-7747 or reach our New Jersey location by appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce in Bergen County
How long does a divorce take in Bergen County, New Jersey?
Uncontested divorces in Bergen County typically resolve in 3–4 months from filing, while contested cases may take 8–18 months or longer. The actual timeline depends on the complexity of the issues, the availability of mandatory settlement procedures such as the Early Settlement Panel, and the court’s calendar. High‑asset divorces involving business valuation or international elements often extend the timeframe. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. helps clients move their cases forward efficiently while protecting their interests throughout the process.
How much does a divorce cost in Bergen County, New Jersey?
The total cost of a divorce in Bergen County varies widely depending on whether the matter is uncontested or contested. Court filing fees are $325, and service of process adds $25–$100. Attorney fees will vary based on the complexity of the case — contested divorces involving custody evaluations, business valuations, and trial preparation typically cost more than uncontested matters. During an initial consultation, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Discusses the fee structure and estimated costs so you can make informed decisions.
How is alimony calculated in New Jersey?
New Jersey alimony is determined under New Jersey law, with a key reform in 2014 that generally limits durational alimony to the length of the marriage for marriages under 20 years. For marriages lasting 20 years or more, open durational alimony may be awarded. The court considers factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, and the standard of living during the marriage. Cohabitation by the recipient spouse can be a basis for modification or termination of alimony.
How does child custody work in Bergen County, NJ?
Child custody in New Jersey is decided under the best interests of the child standard, guided by 14 specific statutory factors. There is no presumption favoring either parent. The Bergen County Family Part judge may order joint or sole custody, and parenting time is determined based on the child’s needs and each parent’s circumstances. In high‑conflict cases, the court may appoint a parenting coordinator to help resolve day‑to‑day disputes. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are experienced in both litigating and negotiating custody arrangements.
What are the grounds for divorce in New Jersey?
New Jersey recognizes both fault and no‑fault grounds for divorce, with the most common no‑fault ground being irreconcilable differences. Under New Jersey law, a divorce may be granted when the marriage has broken down for at least six months with no reasonable prospect of reconciliation. Fault grounds, such as adultery, extreme cruelty, or desertion, remain available but are rarely used in modern practice. Most Bergen County divorces proceed on the no‑fault ground.
Do I need a lawyer for a divorce in Bergen County?
While you are not required to have a lawyer to file for divorce in New Jersey, the legal and financial complexities of divorce make experienced counsel highly advisable. A lawyer can ensure that property division, support, and custody arrangements are handled correctly and that your rights are protected. In a contested case, self‑representation can put you at a significant disadvantage. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.