Let’s be clear about what you’re entitled to when getting divorced in NJ. The courts aim to be fair, but “fair” doesn’t always mean “equal.” Here’s what you need to know:
Splitting Up Your Stuff
The law says you’ll need to divide what you have while married. This means:
- Your house, cars, savings – anything you bought together
- Those retirement accounts you’ve been building up
- Even that vacation timeshare you rarely use
But hold up – some things stay yours alone, like:
- Grandma’s antique ring she left you
- The savings account you had before saying “I do”
- That settlement from your car accident last year
Money After Marriage (Alimony)
Whether you get support money depends on things like:
- How long have you been married
- If you quit your job to raise the kids
- Whether you can support yourself
- Your lifestyle during marriage
The court can order different types of support:
- For long marriages (20+ years): Open-ended support that could last indefinitely
- For shorter marriages: Support with an end date
- To help you get back on your feet: Temporary support while you get training or education
- To pay you back: If you helped put your spouse through school
Kids Change Everything
If you have children, expect orders about:
- Who gets the kids when
- How much child support gets paid
- Who covers their health insurance
- Who pays for extra stuff like sports or braces
Other Important Stuff
Health insurance might continue for a while
Those retirement accounts? They’ll probably get split up
Sometimes you can keep living in the house until the kids grow up
Legal notice: This document provides general information about divorce rights in New Jersey. Individual circumstances vary. Outcomes cannot be guaranteed. For specific advice about your situation, consult with a qualified attorney in your jurisdiction.
