Contested Divorce Lawyer Somerset County, NJ
When a marriage ends without agreement on key issues, the path forward is a contested divorce. For people in Somerset County, New Jersey, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provide experienced representation through this process. The firm’s New Jersey location in Tinton Falls serves clients across all 21 counties, including Somerset County. Whether the dispute involves property division, support, or custody, having an attorney who understands both the legal framework and the local court system can make a material difference. To discuss your situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Contested Divorce Means in Somerset County
A contested divorce arises when spouses cannot resolve one or more issues—such as alimony, equitable distribution of assets, child custody, or support—and a judge must decide. In New Jersey, all divorce cases are heard in the Superior Court, Family Part. Somerset County cases proceed through the Somerset County Family Division, located in Somerville. Because no two marriages or financial situations are identical, a contested divorce requires a detailed examination of each party’s circumstances, from the classification and valuation of property to the trusted‑interests analysis for any children involved.
The firm’s attorneys are well‑versed in the procedural steps that govern these matters, including case management conferences, mandatory mediation in custody and parenting‑time disputes, and, when necessary, trial. While every case moves at its own pace—determined by the complexity of the issues and the court’s calendar—Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to protect their client’s interests at each stage. Their thorough preparation helps ensure that the financial disclosures, parenting plans, and settlement offers presented to the court accurately reflect the client’s position.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Contested Divorce Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. takes a structured, client‑focused approach to contested divorce. The process typically begins with a confidential consultation where the attorney listens to the client’s goals, reviews the marital history, and identifies the central disputes. From there, the team develops a strategy that may include negotiating a settlement on some issues while preparing others for trial. In many cases, partial agreements can narrow the contested areas, reducing the time and expense of litigation.
When an agreement is not possible, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are prepared to advocate in court. They present evidence, examine witnesses, and argue the application of New Jersey’s equitable distribution and support laws. Throughout, the emphasis stays on achieving a resolution that aligns with the client’s long‑term interests—whether through negotiated settlement or judicial determination. Because the firm’s lawyers are admitted in both Maryland and New Jersey, they also bring a multi‑state perspective that can be valuable when a marriage involves assets, businesses, or family connections across state lines.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Over more than two decades, he has built a practice centered on direct client engagement and thorough preparation. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His experience informs the firm’s approach to family law, where financial and legal issues often overlap.
Mr. Sris works alongside a dedicated group of Of Counsel attorneys who concentrate their efforts in family law, criminal defense, and related areas. Together, they bring extensive collective experience to contested divorce matters. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented 4,739+ case results across all practice areas since 1997. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a contested divorce?
A contested divorce is one in which the spouses disagree on one or more key issues—such as property division, alimony, custody, or child support—and those issues must be resolved by a judge. In contrast, an uncontested divorce proceeds when both parties agree on all terms. In a contested case, the process typically involves discovery, motion practice, settlement conferences, and, if no resolution is reached, a trial. New Jersey’s equitable distribution laws govern how marital assets and debts are divided, and the court applies the statutory factors to determine alimony and child support. Because the stakes are high, having experienced legal representation is important.
How is property divided in a contested divorce in New Jersey?
New Jersey follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly, though not necessarily equally, after considering a list of statutory factors. Marital property includes assets and debts acquired during the marriage, regardless of whose name is on the title. Separate property—typically assets owned before the marriage or received as a gift or inheritance—may be excluded. The court examines factors such as the duration of the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning capacity, contributions to the marriage, and the standard of living established. Valuation of businesses, retirement accounts, and real estate often requires experienced attorney input. The goal is a distribution that reflects the economic realities of the relationship.
Can I still settle my divorce even if it is contested?
Yes, many contested divorces settle before trial through negotiation, mediation, or settlement conferences. Even when parties disagree strongly at the outset, the discovery process often clarifies the financial picture and narrows the areas of dispute. Settlement can happen at any stage—before trial, during trial, or even after the trial has started. Reaching an agreement gives the parties more control over the outcome and avoids the cost and stress of a trial. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work toward favorable resolutions while preparing each case as if it will go to trial, so that settlement opportunities are pursued from a position of strength.
What is the difference between a contested divorce and an uncontested divorce?
A contested divorce involves unresolved disagreements over any of the core issues—property, support, or custody—while an uncontested divorce proceeds when the spouses agree on every term. In an uncontested divorce, the paperwork can often be completed without court intervention beyond the final hearing. In a contested divorce, the judge makes the decisions after considering the evidence and arguments presented. The process for each is markedly different in duration, expense, and emotional toll. For Somerset County residents, the timeline for a contested case depends heavily on the complexity of the issues and the court’s docket, which is managed by the Family Part of the Superior Court.
How does child custody work in a contested divorce?
When parents cannot agree on custody, a judge decides based on the best interests of the child, applying a series of statutory factors that focus on the child’s safety, stability, and relationship with each parent. New Jersey law encourages both parents to maintain a meaningful relationship with the child unless it would be harmful. Custody includes both legal custody—decision‑making authority—and physical custody—where the child lives. The court may order a custody evaluation, appoint a guardian ad litem, or require mediation. The process can be lengthy, and temporary orders often govern until a final determination. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel help clients present the facts that support their requested parenting plan.
Do I need a lawyer for a contested divorce?
You are not legally required to hire an attorney, but representing yourself in a contested divorce carries substantial risk—especially when property, support, and parenting rights are at issue. The procedural rules are detailed, and the substantive law involves layers of statutes and case law. Without legal training, it is easy to make mistakes that can have lasting financial and personal consequences. An experienced attorney can help ensure that all required disclosures are made, that evidence is properly presented, and that your rights are protected throughout the process. To discuss your situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
For further reading on related topics, explore our pages on family law in Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Howard County, Anne Arundel County, and Frederick County.
Outbound primary‑source authority: Virginia Code Title 13.1 • SCC business entity filings • Virginia Circuit Courts
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.