Why It’s Critical to Protect Your Privacy During Divorce Litigation in NJ

You don’t have to be a celebrity or influencer to worry about friends, family, coworkers, or future romantic partners possibly becoming too curious about aspects of your divorce or personal life.

Separation, divorce, or deciding to dissolve a civil union can be a difficult and traumatic process. If there are children involved, having to amicably arrange child custody, child support, parenting time arrangements, and any possible alimony from marital assets, means that you and your family will most likely be impacted by additional legal processes and the emotional issues. Because we live in a digital age a whole new level of information freely sharing personal information via social media brings greater transparency in our lives. Our digital footprint and related communication (i.e., text messages, social media, and email) are ever more increasingly being used as evidence in divorce and custody cases. A Washington Times article states “Facebook is now cited in about a third of all divorce cases….social media provides an ongoing log of our lives. The sharing of written posts and pictures, often with geo-tagging, provides a record of activities that can be used in a court case.”

As a no-fault New Jersey state, either party in a marriage may file for divorce, even if they have no specific grievances or proof of wrong-doing. The law allows for couples to pursue a “fault” (divorce based on specific grounds) or “no-fault” divorce (no specific grievances, the marriage just does not work anymore). It’s even possible to file for divorce when your spouse is completely against the idea of divorce.

The experienced divorce and family law attorneys at The Montanari Law Group help clients to navigate through every stage of the divorce process. Whether you intend to file for a fault or no-fault divorce in New Jersey, we will utilize our considerable knowledge and resources to help you achieve the most favorable resolution. Through our work with thousands of clients in Wayne, Totowa, Clifton, Montclair, and throughout Passaic and Essex counties, we have earned a reputation for the aggressive advocacy and unwavering support that we provide to our clients. When you come to us with your case, we will first listen to develop an understanding of your specific circumstances and critical objectives. We will then work tirelessly to reach outcomes that serve your best interests.

To discuss your case with one of our talented New Jersey divorce attorneys today, contact us online or through our Passaic County offices at (973) 233-4396 or toll-free at (888) 877-7985 for a free initial consultation.

Why Pursuing a Dignified Divorce Benefits the Privacy of all Parties in NJ

It is increasingly more common in New Jersey for filing parties to choose “irreconcilable differences” as their ground for divorce. Thanks to Groh v. Groh, 439 N.J. Super. 186, 191 (Ch. Div. 2014) citing “irreconcilable differences” as a cause of action in a divorce permits “people to end their marriages in a common dignified manner without having to engage in hurtful and unproductive mudslinging over who was at fault for the failure of the partnership.” In addition, the airing of dirty laundry can reveal sensitive personal information and increase litigation costs if your divorce attorney objects to discovery or has to file an application to seal court records or limit the disclosure of information.

All divorce documents and proceedings eventually become part of the New Jersey Family court records and are potentially accessible by the public. This includes bad behavior, detailed information about each parties’ debts and assets. If the divorce involves child custody matters, babysitters, teachers, therapists, family friends and other family members may be called as witnesses. All this and more is potentially available.

Selecting “irreconcilable differences” means not laying blame for the marriage’s end on either spouse and paves the way for more amicable child custody and divorce negotiations. Likewise, the non-specific nature of irreconcilable differences can protect each parties’ privacy, if a third party seeks access to public divorce records.

CONTACT OUR WAYNE, NJ DIVORCE LAWYERS FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

If you are considering a separation, mediation, divorce, or are undergoing a divorce and wish to consult with a divorce lawyer, the family law firm of The Montanari Law Group is ready to help. We have extensive experience helping clients get the divorce settlements they deserve. Having assisted clients in Wayne, Little Falls, Woodland Park, and throughout Passaic and Essex counties, we have earned a reputation as skilled and unwavering legal counselors. With our knowledge and experience, there is no situation for which you will not be prepared during the divorce process.

To speak to dedicated, experienced Passaic County divorce attorneys about your family law matter, contact us online or through our Little Falls offices at (973) 233-4396 or toll-free at (888) 877-7985 for a free initial consultation.