Facing Divorce in Bergen County, NJ?
You Do Not Have to Face it Alone.
Ana Milena Goncalves, Esq. brings civil litigation experience, family law knowledge, and a background in psychology and sociology to help clients throughout Bergen, Passaic, and surrounding counties navigate divorce with clarity and confidence.
If you are looking for a Bergen County divorce lawyer who understands both the legal and personal dimensions of this process, AMG Law, LLC is here to help with clear answers, honest guidance, and representation that puts your best interests first.
Do You Have Grounds for Divorce in New Jersey?
New Jersey allows you to file for divorce without proving that your spouse did anything wrong. The most common approach is filing on the grounds of irreconcilable differences under N.J.S.A. 2A:34-2(i), which simply requires that the marriage has broken down for at least six months with no reasonable prospect of reconciliation. If you and your spouse have been living separately for at least 18 months, that is also an available ground.
That said, fault grounds such as adultery or extreme cruelty do not disappear entirely. In certain situations they can still play a role, particularly when negotiating the terms of your settlement.
Not sure where your situation fits? As your Bergen County divorce lawyer, Ana Milena Goncalves, Esq. can help you understand your options before making any decisions.
How Are Marital Assets Divided?
New Jersey follows the doctrine of equitable distribution under N.J.S.A. 2A:34-23.1. This means your marital assets are divided fairly, not necessarily fifty-fifty.
The court considers the length of your marriage, each spouse’s income and earning capacity, contributions to the marital estate, and your standard of living during the marriage. Separate property such as inheritances or pre-marital assets is generally not subject to distribution.
Understanding what is and is not marital property from the very start of your case can make a meaningful difference as you navigate this process with a Bergen County divorce lawyer by your side.
Will I Have to Pay or Receive Alimony?
Alimony is not automatic in New Jersey, but it is often one of the most contested issues in a divorce.
Under N.J.S.A. 2A:34-23(b), courts weigh factors including the length of the marriage, each party’s earning capacity, age, health, and the standard of living established during the marriage.
New Jersey recognizes open durational alimony, limited duration alimony, rehabilitative alimony, and reimbursement alimony. Knowing which type may apply to your situation is essential from day one of your case.
What Happens to the Children?
When children are involved, their best interests are the court’s primary concern under New Jersey law.
New Jersey distinguishes between legal custody, which involves decision-making authority over education, healthcare, and religion, and physical custody, which refers to where your child primarily lives. Shared parenting arrangements are common throughout Bergen, Passaic, and surrounding counties.
A well-crafted parenting plan is one of the most important documents that will come out of your divorce. With her background in psychology and sociology, Ana Milena Goncalves, Esq. understands that these decisions go far beyond legal paperwork. They shape your child’s life for years to come.
How Is Child Support Calculated?
In New Jersey, child support is calculated using the New Jersey Child Support Guidelines, which take into account both parents’ incomes, parenting time, healthcare costs, and childcare expenses.
It is important to note that if a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, the court may impute income, meaning support can be calculated based on what that parent is capable of earning rather than what they are actually earning. Support obligations are established by court order and can be enforced and modified if circumstances change.
What Is the Case Information Statement (CIS)?
Every divorce involving financial issues in New Jersey requires a completed Case Information Statement, known as the CIS. It is a detailed financial snapshot of your income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. It is one of the most important documents in your case and must be accurate and complete. As your Bergen County divorce lawyer, Ana Milena Goncalves, Esq. works closely with each client to prepare the CIS carefully and thoroughly. Getting it right from the start matters.
Have Questions About Your Divorce?
Every situation is different. The best way to understand your options is to speak directly with Ana Milena Goncalves, Esq. As your Bergen County divorce lawyer, she takes the time to understand your specific circumstances before giving any advice. If your former spouse is not complying with your Property Settlement Agreement, learn about your options for enforcement of court orders in New Jersey.
Why Bergen County Clients Choose AMG Law, LLC for Divorce
At AMG Law, LLC clients receive dedicated, personalized attention from start to finish. Ana Milena Goncalves, Esq. brings a foundation in civil litigation, focused family law practice, and a background in psychology and sociology to every matter she handles as your Bergen County divorce lawyer.
Divorce is not just a legal process. It is a deeply personal one, and Ana Milena treats every client accordingly. Clients always know where their case stands and what to expect next.
Se habla español. If you want to learn more about my background and approach, visit my page on bilingual family law representation in Bergen County. AMG Law, LLC provides bilingual divorce representation throughout Bergen County including Paramus, Hackensack, Fort Lee, and Englewood, and throughout Passaic County including Paterson and Clifton.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Finding the right Bergen County divorce lawyer does not have to be overwhelming. With the right guidance, navigating this process with clarity and confidence is possible. Contact AMG Law, LLC to schedule your consultation, virtual or in person.
or call 201-474-5454