How Do I Get Divorce Papers?

Even the most amicable divorces can be costly, time-consuming, and emotionally draining. However, if your divorce is uncontested, and you have resolved the major issues like child custody and spousal support, you and your spouse may be able to obtain a divorce much more quickly than a contested divorce, and at a much lower cost by obtaining copies of divorce papers online. While this process may not be for everyone, particularly if you have accumulated a significant amount of marital property over the years, or if you feel that your agreements clearly favor your spouse, this is a viable option for couples who wish to pursue a less expensive alternative, and who do not have a range of complex custody and financial issues that need to be resolved. Whether you and your spouse proceed with a DIY divorce or not, it is highly recommended that you have an experienced divorce lawyer review your divorce papers to ensure that your best interests are protected and that you reach the best possible solution.

What Documentation Do I Need to Obtain Divorce Papers?

In order to obtain a non-contested divorce, there are a range of documents that that must be filled out and filed with the court, including the following, which can be found online:

  • Complaint for Divorce: This document includes the names and addresses of both spouses, as well as the date and location of the marriage, the names of all children that the couple has, including those that are biological and adopted, and the grounds for the divorce. New Jersey recognizes several reasons for seeking a divorce, which can be found in the ‘Grounds for Divorce’ section of the form.
  • Confidential Litigant Information Sheet: This document provides personal information about both spouses, including date of birth, place of birth, social security number, driver’s license number, license plate number, mother’s maiden name, important medical information, and each of the children’s social security numbers. This document is filed along with the Complaint for Divorce.
  • Certificate of Insurance Coverage: This document lists all insurance coverage that is in effect at the time that the Complaint for Divorce and the Confidential Litigant Information Sheet is filed. It certifies all active policies, including health insurance, life insurance, homeowner’s or renter’s policies, automobile insurance, disability, and any other active policies. The certificate will include the name and address of the insurance company, the policy numbers, and name of the insured person, the beneficiaries, and the date that the policies expire, or when they need to be renewed.
  • CDR Certification: This document certifies to the court that both spouses have been made aware of other dispute resolution options that can help keep costs down. It must be signed by all parties involved.

What Are the Steps Involved with Filing DIY Divorce Papers?

If you plan to handle your divorce on your own, and avoid a costly and time-consuming court battle, it is still extremely important that you complete the following steps:

  • Find out where you should file your papers, which you can do by contacting the county clerk.
  • Make sure that you meet your state’s residency requirements. In New Jersey, either spouse must be a resident for at least one year prior to filing for divorce.
  • Fill out all of the divorce paperwork required by the state.
  • Sign the complaint in the presence of a notary public.
  • Deliver the papers to the country clerk and pay the required filing fee. The clerk will stamp the copies and keep the original.
  • Prepare a settlement agreement after the court papers have been filed. This will be included in the final divorce papers.
  • Complete the remaining divorce documents.
  • You will be given a date and time to appear at court, where the judge will likely grant the divorce.
  • Once the divorce has been granted, you will receive certified copies of the divorce decree or the judgment.

Freehold Divorce Lawyers at Lyons & Associates, P.C. Assist Clients with the Divorce Process

If you and your spouse want to pursue a divorce that is as simple as cost-effective as possible, consult with a highly skilled divorce lawyer, even if you wish to avoid litigation or a drawn-out court battle. The Freehold divorce lawyers at Lyons & Associates, P.C. will provide the skilled legal counsel you need to reach the best possible settlement outcome. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 908-575-9777 or contact us online With offices in Somerville, Morristown, and Freehold, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout Somerset, Woodbridge, Morristown, Parsippany, Rockaway, Short Hills, Chatham, Randolph, Madison, and Morris Plains.