Filing for divorce is a difficult process both emotionally and financially. While no one expects a divorce to be easy, many people are surprised by the fact that divorce can also be a paperwork nightmare.
Because declaring divorce is a legal proceeding, there are many forms and requirements that must be completed accurately in order for it to be legally binding. If you are prepared in advance, you can make it that much easier on yourself when it comes time to file. Seeking an experienced divorce lawyer who can assist you with the paperwork and filing is a smart idea.
Each divorce filing in New Jersey must contain the following documents:
- Complaint for Divorce
- Confidential Litigant Information Sheet
- Certificate of Insurance
- CDR Certification
In the state of New Jersey, every divorce proceeding must begin with the Complaint for Divorce, which you will file with your county clerk’s office.
The Complaint for Divorce must include names and addresses of both spouses, plus details about the marriage such as date, place, type of service, and names of children. The most important detail that must be included in the Complaint for Divorce is the reason, or Grounds for Divorce.
In addition to the Complaint for Divorce, you will also need to file a Confidential Litigant Information Sheet. It will give the court the necessary identification details about each spouse for filing (i.e. Birthdate, Place of Birth, Driver’s License Number, Social Security Number, Name Changes, Medical Information, etc.).
Additionally, you will need to provide information about your insurance coverage in a Affidavit of Insurance document. You will need to list all policies for both spouses. Life insurance, homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, health insurance, auto insurance, benefits packages, etc. all must be included at the time of filing. You will also need to show any changes that were made up to 90 days prior to filing.
Finally, you must include a Consensual Dispute Resolution Certification, or CDR. The courts require this document to show that all parties have been made aware of the options available to keep costs down in filing for divorce.
Correctly completing the required paperwork can become a daunting task. An experienced NJ divorce lawyer can help you with the process of filing for divorce in New Jerey.
