Divorce is a life-changing transition that can have significant financial consequences. Even if you and your spouse have agreed to an uncontested divorce, you may still want to talk to a lawyer to make sure all of your questions are answered. In New Jersey, parties generally pay a withholding fee to their respective attorneys to begin divorce proceedings. But what if you can't afford a lawyer?Fortunately, there are several options available for those who can't afford a divorce lawyer.
The best place to start is by visiting your local court or the American Bar Association. Here, you'll find some more affordable divorce programs. The Legal Services of New Jersey (LSNJ) coordinates the legal services system throughout the state, providing free legal assistance to low-income New Jersey residents for their civil legal issues. Another option is to consider mediation.
Mediation allows parties to resolve their differences with respect to finances and division of property without the financial burden of litigation. It also allows parties to resolve their issues with a qualified mediator who helps them seek common ground so that they can reach a solution. Mediation costs considerably less than litigating a divorce in court and only works if both parties agree to mediate. You may also be able to represent yourself in family court and proceed with an uncontested divorce once custody and support orders are in place. To file for divorce in New Jersey, you must have lived in the state for at least one year.
This is a good option if there are substantial assets at stake that you cannot liquidate during the divorce. If you need help paying for your divorce lawyer, you can seek the help of friends or family to apply for a loan of the funds needed. It's also common for lawyers to donate a certain amount of their time to local agencies and provide services to those who cannot afford them. No one plans for divorce, but with careful attention to detail and knowledge of relevant New Jersey laws and court rules, it's possible to successfully navigate the path to an uncontested divorce without breaking the bank.