What Is a Bifurcated Divorce in Morris County?

When you and your spouse decide to file for divorce, it can be incredibly overwhelming, as there are a number of imperative legal and financial matters that must be decided. As such, you may wonder if it’s possible to get legally divorced before settling these matters. If this reflects your circumstances, you may want to consider a bifurcated divorce. If you’re unsure what this is or how this kind of divorce works, you’ll want to keep reading. The following blog explores these matters in further detail, as well as the importance of working with a Morris County divorce lawyer to help you determine what option is in your best interest.

How Does a Bifurcated Divorce Work in New Jersey?

First and foremost, it’s important to understand how a bifurcated divorce works in New Jersey. Typically, this is an option that allows you to file for and receive a divorce without deciding all issues first, thus splitting the process into two parts. After a divorce has been granted and each party is legally single, the remaining matters at hand, like alimony, property division, and child custody, can be settled.

In many instances, this kind of divorce is ideal for those who want to get a quick divorce to move on with their lives, which often involves remarrying. Because a couple is legally divorced, even if there are outstanding matters at hand, they can remarry if they wish.

What Else Should I Know About This Option?

If you are interested in obtaining a bifurcated divorce in New Jersey, it is critical to understand that this can be incredibly difficult. Generally, the courts only allow this under extraordinary circumstances, as they believe a standard divorce is not only in the best interest of the couple filing, but also of the courts. Prolonging this process and requiring additional court dates to determine outstanding matters can put a strain on the court, making it more complicated for everyone involved. Additionally, the courts believe that some spouses may pursue this type of divorce as a way to punish the other and force them to wait for the resolution of these matters.

However, in the past, New Jersey has granted this type of divorce in a number of circumstances. This includes adultery, abuse, tax implications, and the desire of one or both sposues to remarry, have all been valid reasons for the court to grant this type of divorce.

If you and your spouse have decided you wish to pursue a bifurcated divorce, it is critical to connect with an experienced attorney with Haber Silver Russoniello & Dunn to discuss your options. We an examine your circumstances to determine if this is the best course of action for your situation. Additionally, we can help fight for this type of divorce on your behalf. If you are ready to file, connect with our team today to learn more.