New Jersey Divorce Arbitrator

For many New Jersey couples, arbitrated divorce represents a streamlined, less costly process than a litigated divorce. If you’re considering hiring a New Jersey arbitrator to handle your divorce, contact Haber Silver Russoniello & Dunn today.

Divorce Arbitrator | Representing Clients Throughout New Jersey

Essentially, a divorce arbitrator is a neutral third party whose purpose is to essentially serve as a private judge. Divorce arbitrators are often (but not always) family law attorneys. Couples typically choose arbitration over litigation because it offers privacy, cost-efficiency, and greater control over who is deciding on contested issues. Further, arbitration often lends itself to a less contentious environment than litigation, making it a favorable option for those looking to reduce emotional stress.

The Arbitration Process

A brief overview of the arbitration process in New Jersey is as follows:

1. Choosing an Arbitrator: The process begins with both parties agreeing to arbitrate and selecting a mutually acceptable arbitrator. Both parties should feel confident in the arbitrator’s ability to handle the complexities of divorce with impartiality.
2. Initial Meeting and Ground Rules: Once an arbitrator is chosen, an initial meeting is convened. During this session, the arbitrator sets the ground rules, outlines the process, and discusses confidentiality agreements. The scope of the arbitration, including the specific issues to be resolved, is also defined during this meeting.
3. Discovery Phase: Similar to traditional divorce proceedings, both parties engage in a discovery phase. This involves the exchange of all relevant documents, such as financial statements, property valuations, and other pertinent information. The arbitrator may facilitate this process to ensure both parties have access to necessary data.
4. Hearing Schedule and Proceedings: The arbitrator will set a schedule for hearings, which are less formal than court trials but structured to allow both parties to present their case. Each party can bring legal representation, present evidence, and call witnesses. The arbitrator controls the proceedings to ensure a fair and efficient process.
5. Deliberation and Decision: After the hearings, the arbitrator deliberates on the presented evidence and testimonies. Unlike judges in a courtroom, arbitrators have the flexibility to tailor their decision-making process to the specific circumstances of the case. This phase culminates in a binding decision, known as an arbitration award, which is crafted to address all contested issues.
6. Award and Finalization: The arbitration award is typically issued in writing and outlines the arbitrator’s decisions on all matters such as asset division, child custody, and support arrangements. This award is legally binding and enforceable in a court of law. Parties can request a court to confirm the arbitrator’s award, making it an official court order.

Contact Haber Silver Russoniello & Dunn Today

If you have further questions about the arbitration process or you’d like to speak with a seasoned New Jersey divorce arbitrator, please don’t hesitate to contact Haber Silver Russoniello & Dunn today. We stand ready to efficiently and fairly arbitrate your divorce.