Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey
Seperation
My wife refuses to grant me a divorce she want a seperation first. two questions
What are the legalities involved with me moving out and still paying most of the household expenses ? also is there a time limit where the seperation must be taken forward to divorce ?
tks
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Seperation
This is a no fault state. This means that you need only the most minimal basis for a divorce. Most divorces are based on "extreme cruelty" which
in no fault New Jersey equals irreconciable differences although the words are never used in
court or in the divorce judgment.
You can file for divorce as soon as you like. Issues concerning children and financial issues
are paid great attention but the judges have the attitude that they will not compel someone who is
not happy to stay married.
You will have to continue to provide support in the near term; the status quo is usually maintained during the pendency of an action for
divorce. You are not required to live with your wife. You have not mentioned children. If there are children your moving out is not an offense so long as you continue to provide support.
Gary Moore, Esquire
Hackensack, New Jersey
800 273 7933
www.garymooreattorneyatlaw.com
Re: Seperation
So long as you have legal grounds for a divorce, your wife cannot prevent it. The most common ground is irreconcilable differences. In order to divorce for this reason the parties have to be living separate and apart for 18 continuous months. The other most common ground is cruelty, which is any action or conduct that makes it unreasoable to remain together as husband and wife and the last act complained of must be three months before the filing of the complaint.
If you move out you should send her a letter or have an attorney send a letter confirming why you are moving out so it is not construed as desertion. If there are children, you must continue to support them. Any bills for the house are your responsibility to the extent that you paid them in the past. You should probably see an attorney to protect your rights. If I can be of help, please call.
Bernard Berkowitz
973-808-2003