Dividing Stock Options, RSUs, and Equity Compensation in a New Jersey Divorce
Figuring out what portion of a stock option or RSU grant is even yours to divide is often the first real question in a New Jersey divorce. Key Takeaways: If your spouse’s compensation includes stock options, RSUs, or a bonus structure tied to company performance, a divorce settlement built around salary alone leaves something out. […]
Building a Strong Co-Parenting Relationship After Divorce in New Jersey
Divorce ends a marriage, but for parents it does not end the relationship itself. It changes it. The families who navigate this shift well tend to share a few things in common, and none of them require the two of you to be friends. They require a working system built on communication, clear expectations, and […]
Child Support and Custody Modifications in New Jersey Explained
Divorce rarely settles every question at once. Child support and custody arrangements are built around the facts of a family’s life at a single point in time, and life keeps moving after the judgment is entered. Understanding how New Jersey calculates support in the first place, and what can trigger a change later, helps parents […]
Divorcing a Business Owner in New Jersey: How the Business Gets Valued and Divided
When one spouse owns a business, a New Jersey divorce has an extra layer that a straightforward asset split doesn’t: figuring out what the business is worth and how much of it counts as marital property. Key Takeaways: If you or your spouse owns a business and you’re facing a divorce, you’ve probably already sensed […]
Property Division in New Jersey: How Equitable Distribution Really Works
One of the most persistent myths about divorce in New Jersey is that everything gets split right down the middle. It doesn’t work that way. New Jersey is an equitable distribution state, not a community property state, and understanding that distinction is often the first step toward setting realistic expectations for how your assets and […]
Understanding Child Custody in New Jersey: Physical Custody, Legal Custody, and the Best Interest Standard
When parents in New Jersey are working through a separation or divorce, custody is often the first word that comes to mind — and one of the most misunderstood. Many people assume custody is a single, all-or-nothing decision: one parent gets the child, the other doesn’t. In reality, New Jersey law separates custody into two […]
What Happens to the Marital Home in a New Jersey Divorce
Deciding what to do with the family home is one of the most financially and emotionally significant decisions in a New Jersey divorce, and the right answer depends on your specific situation. Key Takeaways: The marital home is subject to equitable distribution in New Jersey. Most couples have three options: one spouse buys out the […]
When a Parent Wants to Move Away With the Kids in New Jersey
Divorce reorganizes family life in ways that can be difficult to anticipate fully. A parenting plan that functions well when both parents live nearby may no longer be workable if one parent wants to relocate. In New Jersey, child relocation cases are among the more complex matters in family law, and the legal standards that […]
How Divorce Mediation Works in New Jersey
When a marriage ends in New Jersey, many people assume the process will eventually land in a courtroom. In practice, most divorcing couples have more options available to them than they initially realize, and mediation is one of the more commonly used alternatives to litigation. Understanding how mediation works, what it can and cannot do, […]
Your First Divorce Consultation in New Jersey: What to Bring, What to Expect, and What Actually Matters
A first divorce consultation in New Jersey is less about being prepared with the right documents and more about leaving with a clearer picture of your situation than you had going in: what’s at stake, what your options are, and what decisions actually matter at this stage. Key Takeaways: Most people spend weeks or months […]
Collaborative Divorce in New Jersey: How It Works and Whether It’s Right for You
Collaborative divorce in New Jersey lets both spouses negotiate a settlement outside of court, but it requires genuine commitment from both parties to work. Key Takeaways: For some families, collaborative divorce is genuinely the right answer. Both spouses reach an agreement outside of court, avoid the cost and stress of litigation, and move forward on […]
New Jersey Divorce Mediation: What It Is, How It Works, and When to Use It
Mediation lets divorcing spouses negotiate the terms of their divorce with the help of a neutral third party, often resolving cases faster and at lower cost than going to court. Key Takeaways: If you’re weighing whether mediation is right for your divorce, that question deserves a clear answer. Mediation has become one of the most […]
How Much Does a Contested Divorce Cost in New Jersey?
Most people going into a contested divorce in New Jersey have no clear sense of what a fully contested case actually costs. While legal fees are expected, what often comes as a surprise is how quickly those costs can grow – and how much of that expense can be avoided with the right legal approach […]
New Jersey Collaborative Divorce Attorney Featured On The Respectful Divorce Podcast
Collaborative Divorce Attorney Heather Keith was a featured guest on The Respectful Divorce podcast discussing the upcoming Divorce With Respect Week® initiative. The Respectful Divorce Podcast is hosted by Tim Crouch and discusses options for divorce with professionals including no court options that are available to divorcing couples. “I got into family law because of […]
Keith Family Law Joins Divorce With Respect Week® Initiative
Keith Family Law will offer free, 30-minute virtual consultations for individuals and couples who want to learn more about their different options for divorce during Divorce With Respect Week® from March 3-9, 2025. Divorce With Respect Week® is an initiative designed to spread awareness about Collaborative Divorce as a no court divorce option. “Divorce is never easy, […]
Serena McGann Joins Keith Family Law
Keith Family Law is being joined by highly skilled family law attorney, Serena K. McGann. In her practice, McGann has had a special interest in empowering disenfranchised women. McGann, raised in South Florida, has returned to the roots of her parents to create a life and career in New Jersey. McGann knew early on that […]
Reflect on the Season: Lessons Learned and Plans for Future Holidays
The first holiday season after a divorce brings mixed emotions and new challenges. It can feel overwhelming, but it also offers a chance to create new traditions and strengthen your family’s bond. Taking time to reflect on this years’ experience can help ensure smoother, happier holidays in the future. Here’s how to balance reflection and […]
When Conflict Arises: Keeping the Holidays Peaceful for Your Children
Holidays after divorce often bring a mix of joy, stress, and emotion. Co-parenting conflicts can add another layer of difficulty, but with the right approach, you can create a peaceful, meaningful experience for your children. Even when challenges arise, focusing on their well-being helps everyone enjoy the season more. Here’s how to handle conflicts thoughtfully […]
Managing Gift-Giving and Holiday Expenses with Your Co-Parent
Gift-giving and holiday expenses often bring extra stress for co-parents. Balancing budgets, coordinating gifts, and managing expectations require careful communication and planning. The good news is that thoughtful preparation can help you minimize conflict and ensure the holidays are joyful for your children. Here’s how to approach gift-giving and holiday expenses in a way that […]
Keeping Holiday Traditions Alive (or Starting New Ones) After Divorce
The holidays often revolve around family traditions, creating a sense of joy and connection. After a divorce, those traditions may feel uncertain or even bittersweet. For parents, it’s important to balance the familiarity of cherished customs with the opportunity to create new ones that reflect your family’s current dynamic. By approaching this season with a […]
Handling Emotional Challenges: Family Gatherings and Questions from Loved Ones
During the holiday season, families and friends gather to reconnect with loved ones. If you’re newly divorced, these events are an emotional minefield. Well-meaning but intrusive questions can challenge your emotions, and post-divorce holidays require thoughtful preparation and a focus on maintaining a positive atmosphere for your children. Here’s how to handle family dynamics and emotional […]
Creating a Holiday Co-Parenting Plan That Puts Your Kids First
For divorced or separated parents, the holiday season takes a lot of careful planning and consideration to make sure the children have a joyful experience. The goal of a holiday co-parenting plan is to keep your children’s best interests at the forefront and minimize stress and confusion. Here’s a guide to creating a thoughtful co-parenting plan […]
Preparing for the First Holiday Season After Divorce: Setting Expectations and Priorities
The first holiday season after a divorce is sure to be emotionally charged, bringing unique challenges for you and your children. Balancing traditions, navigating family dynamics, and managing the holidays post-divorce can be confusing and overwhelming. With clear expectations and a few proactive steps, you can make this season be a meaningful, positive experience for yourself […]
Interdisciplinary Collaborative Divorce: Can Advocacy Be a Team Sport?
by Heather C. Keith and Bruce David Cohen Collaborative family law practice has made significant inroads in New Jersey. Eight member groups make up the New Jersey Council for Collaborative Practice Groups (NJCCPG). These groups include attorneys, mental health neutrals, financial neutrals, and associate members statewide.1 Still other practice groups function Strong emotional component—will benefit when there is […]
7 Ways to Manage Sadness and Anxiety During Your Divorce
By Heather C. Keith When you and your soon-to-be-ex were saying your vows, you probably didn’t imagine ending your marriage. You’re definitely not alone, as more than 782,000 couples divorce each year in the U.S. That’s nearly 2,142 divorces per day and 15,039 divorces per week—or one divorce every approximately 40 seconds. Translation: In the time it takes one […]
Is Amicable Divorce Even an Option for Me?
Well, well, well… considering a divorce, are we? Or are you just here to show some love and support to someone who is? Either way, welcome to the party, friend! We’re here to lend a helping hand, because let’s be real, divorce is no walk in the park. When it comes to divorce, being in […]
How to Prepare a Complaint for Divorce in New Jersey
If you’re thinking about pulling the plug on your marriage, you better strap in and prepare for the wild ride ahead. Lucky for you, we’ve got the inside scoop on how to lay down the law with a divorce complaint, why legal advice is non-negotiable, and what legal requirements you need to check off before […]
Reputation on the Line: How to Keep Your Good Name Intact During Divorce
When your personal life gets hit by a wrecking ball, and you’re knee-deep in a legal and emotional swamp, the last thing you want is to become the town’s hot topic. Let’s face it; nobody wants to be the subject of watercooler chat, office gossip, or even worse, a star of your own Jerry Springer […]
How Long Does Divorce Take in New Jersey? Let’s Be Honest.
Listen up, lovebirds turned sour. I’m about to spill some piping hot tea on how long it takes to break the bonds of holy matrimony in New Jersey.
What to Expect From an Emergency Child Custody Hearing in New Jersey
Child custody cases in New Jersey can quickly take unexpected twists and turns that throw you for a loop. In certain circumstances, you can find yourself calling for or being called into an emergency child custody hearing. These proceedings can feel overwhelming and cause a lot of anxiety for all parties involved. But what constitutes […]
Divorce vs. Separation in New Jersey: The Legal Differences
It can be extremely hard to end a relationship, especially when you’ve committed to being with that person for the rest of your life. However, there are situations when deciding to separate is better than staying together, especially if there are frequent conflicts or your children’s well-being is at stake.
My Spouse Won’t Sign the Papers; What Do I Do Now?
No one truly wants a divorce, and if you’re going through one or feel like one is best, you want your situation to go as smoothly as possible. Unfortunately, not everyone has an amicable separation, and some spouses refuse to sign divorce papers and deal with the legal ramifications of a relationship ending. If your spouse doesn’t […]
Can I Have My Child Support Payments Reduced in New Jersey?
When children become a focal point of a divorce case, charged emotions, arguments over money, and custody battles are commonplace. In the aftermath of these deliberations, you may have to make child support payments to your former spouse every month to help care for your child. However, life does not always allow you to make […]
Staying Involved in Your Child’s Life After a Divorce
Divorce is one of the most devastating events in your life, and the end of your marriage rarely has positive effects. Regardless, your role as a parent continues no matter your marital status. Whether you are a custodial or non-custodial parent, you still have a role to play in caring for your child and ensuring […]
Your Essential Guide to Understanding Alimony in New Jersey
Whenever you get embroiled in a divorce, attorneys get involved in helping ensure you get fairly represented in the proceedings. One of the critical factors that get argued in court and can lead to the most emotionally charged exchanges is alimony. While popular culture has painted alimony as something that a man more often than […]
How Do I Ensure an Equitable Distribution of Assets?
Like every couple that files for divorce, no one divorce looks the same. Thorny issues like child custody, prenuptial agreements, guardianship, and more of the little details that need to be discussed at the end of a marriage can stress you out. One area that requires an experienced divorce attorney in your corner to ensure […]
The Differences Between Amicable and Collaborative Divorce
While going through the divorce process rarely ends as a positive experience for the parties involved, there are some cases where the partners end their marriage on good terms. Sometimes people drift apart, and the best move for both people is to move on and start again with someone new. These couples have options that […]
My Ex-Partner Is Not Paying Child Support. What Can I Do?
The dissolution of a marriage can prove traumatic for all parties involved. During most proceedings, the subject of child support comes up, and an agreement is made based on what your partner owes to help cover the costs of raising your child. But what happens when you have mountains of unpaid child support and no […]
Do I Need a Lawyer If I’m Mediating My Divorce in New Jersey?
Going through a divorce can quickly become a long, tedious, and contentious process for all parties involved. Deciding to file for divorce from your partner might seem like the most difficult choice you make in the process; however, if you don’t know the differences between divorce mediation and a lawyer-led divorce, you can further complicate […]
What’s the Difference Between Custody and Guardianship in New Jersey?
Family law can be complex, and legal definitions can be a bit mystifying when it comes to the care of a child. Many consider the idea of custody and guardianship to be one and the same. However, these terms describe separate arrangements, and the main differentiator lies in the child’s parentage. Custody orders pertain to […]
7 Ways to Save Your Marriage Before the Pandemic Ends
Has your partner’s loud Dorito chewing frayed your next-to-last nerve? Are you counting how many sheets of toilet paper your S.O. uses? Yes, you’re probably way past the pandemic’s honeymoon phase. You’re not alone if you’ve eyed up your spouse and thought, “Wait, I married this person? Do I have to live with them forever?” […]
5 Ways to Help Your Teen Bust the Social-Distancing Blues
Welcome to the new normal—and the social distancing blues. While most of us (even family pets) have had our routines upended for months, it’s important to remember that your older children—yes, your teenagers—might be taking this much harder than you think It’s not just that they’re the first teens in our lifetimes to miss sports […]
It’s a Date: 6 Ideas for the Sweetest Pandemic Date Night Ever
Majorly trending on Twitter: Since some experts are predicting a surge of #covidivorces, it might be time to schedule some hot #pandemicdatenights or tap into #quarantech for social distance dating. Lots of us are living in closer quarters with our partners or spouses. Some of us are virtually dating our new significant other, while others […]
Exchanging Children is an Essential Activity
Despite having been divorced for 20 years, Demi Moore and Bruce Willis made news recently after sharing photos of their family’s shared pandemic lockdown. Clad in matching pajamas, the long-split couple certainly seems to be a model of co-parenting goals. However, despite the happy images, co-parenting is a significant challenge right now for many families. […]
How do you know it’s time to contact a divorce lawyer?
It’s a two-syllable word that carries a whole lot of weight. Divorce. Many times it’s the ending of a relationship that was never expected to end – and that can make it really hard to take one of the very first step’s in the process: contacting a divorce lawyer. One thing is for sure. The […]
Quarantine/COVID-19 Domestic Violence Resources
Most Americans are calling it quarantine. Victims of domestic violence are calling it trapped. The coronavirus pandemichas become part of everyday life for Americans. Schools are closed. Businesses have shut down. Workers are being laid off at an unprecedented pace. The number of Americans applying for unemployment is skyrocketing. And social distancing has forced victims […]
Stimulus Checks Impact on Divorce, Child Support & Alimony in New Jersey
On March 27, 2020, Congress and President Donald Trump signed a $2 trillion spending bill known as the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act into law, intending to offset the economic damages of the coronavirus pandemic. This spending bill includes a one-time payment to eligible American taxpayers. Most individual taxpayers with an adjusted […]
Co-Parenting During a Pandemic
The coronavirus pandemic is unlike any prior state of emergency the United States has ever faced. With children schooling from home, businesses closing, and employers laying off workers in droves, this crisis is impacting more than just the public’s health – it’s impacting the very way we live our lives. The reason for this is […]
How to Keep Your Divorce Moving Forward During a Pandemic
There’s never an ideal time to get divorced, but if there was, a global pandemic wouldn’t be it. Although it seems like the world has come to a grinding halt in the last few weeks, you’ll be surprised to find out that your divorce doesn’t have to. (And the same goes for your child support […]
Divorce Moment: What is Divorce Mediation?
Is it possible to divorce without hard feelings? In this edition of Divorce Moment, we talk about divorce mediation and how it can help you find common ground with your ex during this difficult period. Transcript Hi, this is Heather Keith from Keith Family Law with another Divorce Moment on the issue of mediation. […]