When you get divorced, you will receive a divorce decree. This is a document that declares the official end of your marriage. It is important to keep your divorce decree. However, you will be able to obtain a copy of the document if it has been lost. Read on to learn more.
What do I do if I lost my divorce decree?
New Jersey divorce decrees are available through the Superior Court of New Jersey Records Center. According to njcourts.gov “In many circumstances it may not be necessary to obtain a copy of the actual Judgment of Divorce. The Superior Court Clerk’s Office can prepare a Certificate of Divorce for a nominal fee. The certificate contains the county of venue, docket number, names of the parties and date of the Final Judgment of Divorce, and is stamped with the Seal of the Superior Court.”
Why would I need a copy of my divorce decree?
The three main reasons to use your divorce decree include:
- Refinancing your home: If you are able to keep your marital home after a divorce, you may need to remove your ex-spouse’s name from the mortgage. In order to do this, you will have to ask the mortgage lender to remove your ex, however, he or she will require proof of the divorce, to ensure that your ex should truly be removed from the mortgage. Showing your divorce decree can provide this proof.
- Changing your last name: After a divorce, many people revert to their maiden names. In order to do so, you will need your divorce decree. When going to court to change your last name, the judge will generally ask why you are changing your last name. Some individuals attempt to change their names for criminal or fraudulent purposes, so showing your divorce decree will act as proof of a legitimate reason to change your last name. Once you change your last name, you will have to update your legal documents. You may also have to provide your divorce decree to the social security office, your bank, and more.
- Remarrying: If you wish to remarry, you will need your divorce decree. This is because, in New Jersey, it is illegal to be married to more than one person at a time. In order to apply for a marriage certificate, you will need your divorce decree as proof that your first marriage has legally ended.
If you have any questions or concerns about divorce in New Jersey, our firm is here to help.
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