Going through a divorce in New Jersey is never easy, and things are even more difficult when the process drags on for months. A separation agreement can be a great way to settle many of the issues that would be decided during a divorce. A separation agreement can be both an affordable and efficient way for a couple to handle these outstanding issues.

Call the experienced team at The Law Office of Jennifer J. McCaskill, LLC today to let us learn more about you and your needs. We will get started right away, putting together a comprehensive agreement for your specific situation. Contact us online or call (732) 747-1882 now to schedule a free case evaluation with a New Jersey separation agreement lawyer and let us get to work.

How The Law Office of Jennifer J. McCaskill, LLC Will Help With a Separation Agreement in New Jersey

Many couples are not familiar with the difference between a divorce and a separation agreement. The first thing a family law attorney can do for you is to help you understand the details of a separation agreement and whether it is right for your situation. 

Additionally, a New Jersey family lawyer can help you by:

• Answering all your questions and advising you of your legal options
• Assessing your current situation to understand all the terms that need to be included in the agreement
• Negotiating favorable terms as part of the agreement to protect your interests
• Drafting a comprehensive agreement that covers all necessary issues
• Filing a lawsuit and representing you in court if your spouse breaks the terms of the agreement

If you have decided that a separation from your spouse is the best decision for you and your family, contact The Law Office of Jennifer J. McCaskill, LLC today. Our New Jersey separation agreement lawyers will fully evaluate your current situation and give you sound legal advice on your options. 

In some cases, divorce is the right answer. However, separation agreements are often a great option to save you some time and money. Contact us today for a free initial consultation. 

Overview of New Jersey Separation Agreements

A separation agreement is a legally binding contract that both spouses enter into with each other. Sometimes, the agreements are executed in anticipation of divorce. However, there is no legal requirement to follow through with a divorce after signing the agreement. Even if you decide not to legally divorce, the separation agreement is still valid and binding.

What Is the Difference Between a Separation Agreement and a Divorce?

The big difference between a separation agreement and a divorce is the fact that you are not legally divorced by a separation agreement. Although you may agree to all the same terms you would agree to in a divorce, you are still legally married to your spouse. Typically, the only time this becomes an issue is if one spouse decides to remarry. In order to get remarried, you must be legally divorced.

What Are Common Issues Addressed in a Separation Agreement?

Some common issues addressed in a separation agreement include:

• Division of property
• Division of assets and debts
• Child custody
• Child support
• Spousal support

By addressing these important issues in advance, a separation agreement can provide clarity, reduce conflict, and help both parties move forward with a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities.

What Happens if Someone Violates a Separation Agreement?

Separation agreements are legally binding contracts with the same legal effect as any other contract. Each party has a legal duty or obligation to perform its duties under the contract. Failure to follow the terms of the agreement could result in a civil lawsuit.

For example, suppose part of the agreement requires one spouse to pay the other $1,000 in child support. If the spouse who agreed to pay child support suddenly stops paying, they may be in breach of contract. 

At The Law Office of Jennifer J. McCaskill, LLC, we can help you pursue legal action against your spouse for violating the terms of your separation agreement. You may be able to recover compensation in civil court after a violation.

What Are the Benefits of a Separation Agreement?

Separation agreements in New Jersey have several benefits. First, they can help couples avoid the lengthy and expensive divorce process. The divorce process can sometimes last for many months, and couples are often required to make multiple court appearances. By using a separation agreement, a couple can come to a mutual agreement on how to handle all outstanding issues.

Additionally, if the couple decides to later pursue a divorce, the separation agreement can help speed up the process. Since most of the major issues have already been resolved by the separation agreement, this can save a substantial amount of time. The agreement can be used as a template for the final divorce agreement.

Contact Our New Jersey Separation Agreement Lawyers for a Free Case Evaluation

If you are contemplating separation or divorce, contact The Law Office of Jennifer J. McCaskill, LLC today. We can help you explore your legal options. A separation agreement might allow you to accomplish your goals without going through the full divorce process. 

Call us today to schedule a consultation with a New Jersey separation agreement attorney who will answer all your questions and help you through the process.