No-Fault Divorce in New Jersey
State-specific overview · Family Law
New Jersey grants no-fault divorce based on irreconcilable differences with a 6-month waiting period from filing.
How New Jersey treats No-Fault Divorce
New Jersey allows either spouse to file for divorce on grounds of irreconcilable differences, but the court cannot enter a final judgment until at least six months have passed from the date of filing. During this period, the court may require the parties to attempt mediation or counseling. After the six-month waiting period, the divorce can be finalized without either party proving wrongdoing. New Jersey courts divide marital property equitably and determine alimony and child support based on statutory guidelines.
The general definition of No-Fault Divorce
A divorce granted without requiring either spouse to prove wrongdoing by the other.
A no-fault divorce is a divorce where neither spouse has to prove that the other did something wrong, like infidelity or abuse. Instead, one or both spouses simply state that the marriage is irretrievably broken or that they have irreconcilable differences. This is the most common type of divorce in the United States today. No-fault divorces are generally faster and less contentious than fault-based divorces because they don't require gathering evidence of misconduct.
Read the full No-Fault Divorce entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in New Jersey.