Contested Divorce Lawyer Union County, NJ
Contested Divorce Lawyer Union County, NJ
When a marriage reaches the point of no return and spouses cannot agree on core issues—child custody and parenting time, division of property and debts, alimony, or child support—you need an attorney who understands both the legal framework and the local court system. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, represents clients throughout Union County in contested divorce proceedings before the Superior Court of New Jersey, Chancery Division – Family Part. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of the firm, and his Of Counsel team bring extensive experience in contested divorce litigation, including complex equitable distribution, spousal support, and custody disputes. We know how Union County judges approach early settlement panels, mandatory financial disclosures, and trial preparation. For a consultation about your contested divorce case, reach our New Jersey location at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders. India is not a signatory to the 1980 Hague Convention on Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.
What a Contested Divorce Means in Union County, New Jersey
In Union County, a contested divorce is one where the spouses disagree on at least one of the central issues: grounds for divorce, equitable distribution of marital property, alimony, child custody, parenting time, or child support. Unlike an uncontested matter that proceeds by agreement, a contested divorce requires litigation. Cases are heard in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Union Vicinage, at 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07207. The Family Part handles all divorce, custody, support, and related applications. The court is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. To 4:30 p.m., and counsel should plan filings accordingly.
New Jersey is an equitable distribution state. The court divides marital property fairly—not necessarily equally—after considering factors like the duration of the marriage, the parties’ contributions, their ages, and their economic circumstances. Separate property acquired before the marriage or by gift or inheritance generally remains with the owning spouse. The legal standards for child custody guide the court to decide custody based on the best interests of the child using 14 statutory factors. Alimony is governed by New Jersey law, which was reformed in September 2014 to establish durational limits for marriages under 20 years and to clarify how cohabitation affects support.
In New Jersey, a no-fault divorce is available on the ground of irreconcilable differences if the parties have lived separate and apart for at least six months.
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
Durational alimony for marriages under 20 years is limited to the length of the marriage; open durational alimony may be awarded for marriages of 20 years or more.
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
A distinctive feature of New Jersey divorce practice is the mandatory Early Settlement Panel (ESP). After the complaint is answered, the court schedules the case for ESP, where a panel of retired judges hears each side’s position and recommends settlement terms. This process resolves a substantial number of contested cases without a trial. Both spouses must also file a Case Information Statement, a comprehensive financial disclosure. A Case Management Conference sets the discovery schedule, and in high-conflict custody matters, a parenting coordinator may be appointed to assist with communication and decision-making. Familiarity with these local procedures is essential to effective representation.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Contested Divorce Cases
Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, approaches divorce litigation with the same analytical rigor he brought to criminal trial work. He and his Of Counsel team begin by gathering a complete picture of the marital estate, the children’s circumstances, and the financial needs of each party. They work with financial professionals, real estate appraisers, and pension valuation attorneys to ensure that all assets—including business interests, retirement accounts, executive compensation, and real estate—are properly identified and valued. The team prepares detailed Case Information Statements and develops a strategy tailored to the client’s goals, whether that means pursuing a fair settlement at ESP or preparing for trial.
When settlement cannot be reached, the firm is prepared to litigate. The team presents clear, fact-based arguments to the court and cross-examines witnesses effectively. Throughout the process, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel remain focused on protecting the client’s parental rights, financial stability, and long-term interests. They keep clients informed of procedural deadlines, discovery obligations, and settlement opportunities, so that no decision is made without full understanding.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced law since 1997. Admitted in New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and New York, he limits his caseload to ensure deep involvement in every matter. He is supported by a dedicated Of Counsel team—non-employee attorneys engaged through Excella—who bring additional subject-matter experience. Collectively, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have over 120 years of combined legal experience, and the firm has achieved over 4,739 documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Contested Divorce in Union County, NJ
How long does a contested divorce take in Union County, New Jersey?
A contested divorce in Union County typically takes nine to eighteen months, depending on complexity. The timeline depends on factors such as the number of disputed issues, the court’s calendar, and whether the parties reach a settlement at the mandatory Early Settlement Panel, which is usually scheduled six to nine months after the case is filed. Intensive settlement conferences and any trial add to the duration. High-asset cases or those involving international elements may extend longer.
How much does a contested divorce cost in Union County?
The cost of a contested divorce varies significantly based on the complexity of assets and the level of conflict. Factors include whether custody evaluations, business valuations, or pension appraisals are needed and whether the case proceeds to trial. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Discusses fee structures at the initial consultation. Contact us at (888) 437-7747, by appointment only.
How is alimony calculated in New Jersey?
New Jersey law provides for several types of alimony—including durational, limited duration, rehabilitative, and reimbursement—determined by statutory factors. The 2014 alimony reform limits durational alimony for marriages under 20 years to the length of the marriage, and open durational alimony is available for marriages of 20 years or more. Cohabitation or remarriage may modify or terminate alimony. A judge considers factors like the parties’ earning capacities, standard of living, and contributions.
How does child custody work in Union County, NJ?
Child custody in New Jersey is decided based on the best interests of the child, using 14 statutory factors. Neither parent is presumed preferred. The Union County Superior Court Family Division may appoint a parenting coordinator for high-conflict cases. Custody can be legal (decision-making) and physical (residence), and arrangements range from sole to joint custody. An experienced lawyer can help present evidence supporting your parenting plan.
Do I need a lawyer for a contested divorce in Union County?
While you are not legally required to have a lawyer, a contested divorce with disputed custody, support, or property division is extremely difficult to manage without legal representation. The procedural rules—mandatory Case Information Statements, Early Settlement Panel presentations, discovery, and trial preparation—are designed for attorneys. Representing yourself can put you at a serious disadvantage. A lawyer can advocate for your rights and help reach a fair settlement.
Related pages: Divorce Lawyer in Hunterdon County, Family Law Attorney in Somerset County, Contested Divorce Representation in Morris County, Bergen County Divorce Lawyer, Monmouth County Family Law Firm.
Official resources: Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage · New Jersey Legislature — Statutes · New Jersey Judiciary.
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Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris.
Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.