Carolann M. Aschoff, P.C.Carolann M. Aschoff, P.C.2026-07-09T16:58:56Zhttps://www.njfamilyattorney.net/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1504728/2021/06/cropped-siteicon-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Carolann M. Aschoff, P.C.<![CDATA[What should unmarried parents know about parental rights?]]>https://www.njfamilyattorney.net/?p=522052026-06-29T16:05:18Z2026-06-29T16:05:18ZHow is legal parentage established?
Before you can seek custody or parenting time, you may need to legally establish that you are the child's parent. Until you prove that relationship, you may face challenges when seeking custody, parenting time or involvement in major decisions concerning your child.
You can establish parentage through a voluntary acknowledgment signed by you and the other parent. In other cases, additional legal action may be necessary to confirm the relationship. Once you resolve this issue, you can move forward with other parenting matters.
What rights can a legally recognized parent seek?
Once you establish your status as a parent, you can pursue a variety of rights involving your child's upbringing. Depending on your circumstances, you may seek:
Custody
Parenting time
Participation in decisions affecting your child's welfare
Every family situation is different. Some parents reach agreements on these issues without significant conflict, while others need formal arrangements that clearly define each person's responsibilities and time with the child.
What happens if parents cannot agree on parenting arrangements?
When parents cannot reach an agreement, a court can help establish a parenting framework. Judges generally focus on the child's best interests when making decisions about custody and parenting time.
The court may evaluate factors such as:
Your child's needs
Each parent's ability to provide care
The existing relationship between the child and each parent
These decisions help create stability and support your child's development.
Protect your role in your child's life
Taking action sooner can help ensure that you have a legally recognized role in your child's life before questions or disagreements arise. If you have questions about parentage, custody or parenting time, legal guidance can help you understand your options and take the next steps.]]>On Behalf of Carolann M. Aschoff, P.C.<![CDATA[Does dating someone new affect a pending divorce?]]>https://www.njfamilyattorney.net/?p=522012026-06-03T07:06:27Z2026-06-03T07:06:27ZDivorce grounds and no-fault filings
New Jersey allows couples to end a marriage without assigning blame to either party. You may cite irreconcilable differences, acknowledging the relationship has broken down for at least six months with no reasonable way of reconciliation.
Fault-based grounds remain available, and adultery is among them. Proving these grounds seldom alters the financial aspects of a case unless marital funds were spent on the affair or the conduct was legally egregious.
Since a no-fault option exists, a new partner rarely affects whether the marriage may be dissolved. Its influence, where any exists, generally surfaces in other, more defined areas of the divorce.
Alimony and new relationships
Support determinations in New Jersey rest on factors that include the length of the marriage, each spouse's income and the standard of living established over time. A new partner does not enter that calculation in any direct manner.
The analysis changes if a new relationship reaches the legal definition of cohabitation. If you receive support and your relationship involves shared duties and privileges akin to marriage—even if you do not live together full-time—a court may suspend or terminate the obligation.
Custody and parenting time
Parenting matters follow a standard distinct from financial ones. A court centers its attention on the child's best interests, which keeps the focus on stability and wellbeing rather than a parent's personal life.
A new partner ordinarily remains peripheral to that assessment. The relationship acquires significance only when it affects the child, whether through the home environment, exposure to conflict or concerns regarding safety.
The timing and manner of introducing a new partner often require careful navigation during a pending divorce. Courts frequently limit overnight visits from new partners while the case is ongoing to maintain stability. This approach helps protect a child who is still adjusting to the separation.
Marital assets and dissipation
Courts generally divide the property accumulated during a marriage in a manner they regard as fair. This is also the area where a new relationship may produce its most direct financial consequence.
A court may regard spending marital money on a partner, such as travel, gifts or shared housing, as a form of waste. Where that occurs, a judge can adjust the property divided through equitable distribution so the other spouse is not disadvantaged.
Next steps and legal guidance
While your divorce is still pending, consulting with an attorney can provide clarity on how certain actions may influence your case. Understanding these legal boundaries helps you make informed choices as you move forward.]]>On Behalf of Carolann M. Aschoff, P.C.<![CDATA[Are you liable for your ex-spouse’s debts after a divorce?]]>https://www.njfamilyattorney.net/?p=521772026-05-05T06:35:51Z2026-05-05T06:35:51ZHow does New Jersey divide marital debt?
The state follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning courts divide marital assets and debts in a way they consider fair rather than splitting everything equally. Courts generally treat debts incurred during the marriage as shared obligations regardless of which spouse's name appears on the account.
Courts typically consider debts that one spouse brought into the marriage as separate obligations. However, if the couple used marital funds to pay down premarital debt or the obligation became intertwined with joint finances, a court may factor it into the overall distribution.
When does a divorce decree protect you?
A divorce decree or property settlement agreement outlines which spouse is responsible for each debt. If the agreement assigns a joint credit card balance to your ex-spouse, you might assume that resolves the issue. In many situations, though, that assumption can lead to unwelcome surprises.
Even years after a divorce, a missed payment by your ex-spouse on a jointly held account can hurt your credit score and trigger collection efforts against you. The original lending agreement remains the controlling document in these situations, not the divorce settlement.
In some cases, creditors may also pursue you for debts you did not know about if they were incurred during the marriage on shared accounts. Reviewing your credit report during and after divorce proceedings can help you identify outstanding obligations tied to your name.
What steps limit your debt exposure?
One of the most practical approaches is to pay off or refinance joint debts before you finalize the divorce. If your ex-spouse is keeping the marital home, for instance, requiring them to refinance the mortgage solely in their name removes your liability on that loan. The same principle applies to car loans and other secured debts.
Closing joint credit card accounts and opening individual ones can also limit future exposure. While you cannot remove yourself from an existing balance, closing the account prevents anyone from adding new charges. Including specific deadlines and consequences for nonpayment in the divorce agreement may provide additional safeguards.]]>On Behalf of Carolann M. Aschoff, P.C.<![CDATA[Boutique law firm vs. large firm: What really sets them apart?]]>https://www.njfamilyattorney.net/?p=521632026-03-30T14:39:37Z2026-03-30T14:39:37ZChoosing a lawyer matters, especially in family law, where emotions and long-term outcomes play a role. Many people assume that larger firms offer stronger results because of their size. However, smaller boutique firms often provide a different kind of advantage. One that focuses on attention, consistency and stronger client relationships. This blog further outlines these differences and advantages.
More attention, fewer distractions
Large firms often handle a high volume of cases simultaneously. This structure can limit how much time an attorney spends on each client. You may need to speak with different staff members rather than your lawyer. This can create communication gaps.Boutique firms, however, tend to work with fewer clients at a time. This allows attorneys to stay directly involved in your case. They respond faster, explain steps clearly and focus on details a big firm may overlook. For many clients, this level of attention brings clarity during a stressful time.
Tailored strategies, not standard processes
To manage many cases efficiently, large firms often rely on set procedures. While this can work in straightforward situations, it may not address the unique aspects of every case.A boutique firm usually builds strategies around each client's specific needs. The attorney takes time to understand your priorities. This may involve protecting assets. It may involve arranging custody or reaching a fair settlement. This approach can lead to more thoughtful decisions rather than quick, standardized outcomes.
Considering a more focused approach
Some individuals prefer a setting where their case feels more personal and consistent from start to finish. Working with a boutique firm such as NJ Family Attorney may offer that experience.Carolann Aschoff holds the designation of certified matrimonial attorney. Only about 2% of lawyers hold this distinction. This certification reflects advanced experience in handling complex family law matters.Speaking with an attorney who works closely with each case may help you better understand your options and feel more prepared as your situation moves forward.]]>On Behalf of Carolann M. Aschoff, P.C.<![CDATA[4 signs a marriage qualifies for an annulment]]>https://www.njfamilyattorney.net/?p=521502026-02-24T18:25:59Z2026-02-24T18:25:59ZThe discovery of fraud
Fraud is a common reason for a person to seek an annulment. The misrepresentation must involve something essential to the marriage. For example, a spouse might hide a prior marriage or a permanent inability to have children.
If these facts come to light, a court may grant an annulment. However, you must not continue to live with your spouse after you discover the fraud. If you remain in the marriage, a court may decide you ratified the union.
Lack of mental capacity
A marriage must be a voluntary choice made by two people who understand the nature of the ceremony. If a person was so intoxicated during the wedding that they lacked the mental capacity to understand the commitment, the union may be annulled.
New Jersey courts prioritize the "want of understanding" at the time of the vows. This ground is only applicable if the parties did not continue to live together once the intoxicated person became sober.
Bigamy or prohibited relationships
Some marriages are void from the very start under New Jersey law. For instance, a person might already be married to someone else at the time of your wedding.
While bigamy makes a marriage void from the beginning, you cannot simply walk away. You must still obtain a formal Judgment of Nullity from the Superior Court to legally dissolve the record of the union.
Incurable impotence
A judge may grant an annulment for incurable impotence under specific conditions. The petitioner must have been unaware of the condition at the time of the wedding.
Additionally, the right to an annulment is often lost if the petitioner stays in the marriage after learning about the condition. You must show the impotence is permanent and that you did not ratify the marriage.
Seeking legal clarity
Many people believe there is a 30-day deadline for annulments. While there is no strict statutory 30-day limit, some courts use equitable powers to grant a nullity for very short marriages even if standard grounds are not fully met. Because the New Jersey Courts require clear evidence, you must provide specific proof for your claims.
An experienced divorce attorney can review your situation to see if you meet these strict standards. Navigating the legal system is often difficult during emotional times. A lawyer can help you understand which path fits your needs and protects your future.]]>On Behalf of Carolann M. Aschoff, P.C.<![CDATA[How can parents share legal custody after a divorce?]]>https://www.njfamilyattorney.net/?p=521092026-01-27T11:54:06Z2026-01-27T11:54:06ZEach parent controls their own parenting time
Shared or joint legal custody makes it possible for each adult to make decisions about the children during their parenting time. Neither parent generally controls what happens while the children are with their other parent.
The parent currently meeting the needs of the children decides what time they go to bed, what meals they eat and even when minor medical issues may require medical attention. Both parents should generally respect the authority of the other to make decisions during their parenting time and should not try to interfere in the exercise of that authority.
Major decisions require cooperation
Shared legal custody can create practical challenges for parents. They need to talk with one another about matters related to their children's health, education and upbringing. When parents share legal custody, there is an expectation that they should agree on major decisions, such as when to change the school that they attend or when elective medical procedures are appropriate for the child.
Disagreements about major decisions can be difficult for parents to settle on their own. In cases where there are disputes about critical parenting choices, parents may need to go to court to either modify the custody order to clarify decision-making authority or have a judge decide what outcome is in the best interest of the children.
Ensuring appropriate standards for shared legal custody can be an important aspect of child custody negotiations. Parents often require support as they attempt to negotiate terms for and adjust to a shared custody arrangement, and that’s okay.]]>On Behalf of Carolann M. Aschoff, P.C.<![CDATA[Using shuttle or caucus mediation in high-conflict divorce cases]]>https://www.njfamilyattorney.net/?p=521052026-01-02T17:21:05Z2026-01-02T17:21:05ZWhat makes caucus or shuttle mediation different?
Standard mediation during divorce usually requires that everyone sit down together to talk about disagreements. Much of the process is the same during caucus or shuttle mediation. The main difference is that the mediator keeps the spouses separate from one another.
The process might be digital in some cases or may involve the spouses remaining in separate rooms. The mediator then goes back and forth, conversing with each party to help facilitate compromise. Such arrangements help limit emotional reactions and make it feasible for those experiencing intense divorce disputes to work together and settle without litigating. Some research has even shown that this form of mediation can work in divorces involving domestic violence.
Avoiding interactions can prevent emotional reactions and limit the volatility of the mediation session. Spouses hoping to retain control over certain elements of the divorce process or keep the details of their divorce as private as they can may want to discuss the possibility of mediation as a way of achieving those goals.
Even when they cannot work directly with one another and emotions overtake the spouses during conversations, mediation can still be an option. Spouses can potentially request structured caucus mediation sessions that keep them separate. This arrangement makes it possible to compromise and work cooperatively despite the conflict and intense emotions involved.
Working cooperatively instead of litigating is often the best option for divorcing couples. Even spouses with high-conflict divorce cases can be candidates for divorce mediation if the spouses use the right tools and access strong legal support as their circumstances evolve.]]>On Behalf of Carolann M. Aschoff, P.C.<![CDATA[What happens if spouses can’t agree during divorce mediation?]]>https://www.njfamilyattorney.net/?p=520712025-11-27T02:52:42Z2025-11-27T02:52:42ZAdditional sessions are often necessary
After years of marriage, spouses may not be able to settle everything quickly. Especially in cases involving allegations of misconduct or complex resources, spouses may have a lot to unpack during confidential mediation sessions.
It is common for divorcing couples to require between three and five mediation sessions to work out a reasonable settlement. While some couples reach an agreement after a single session or only a few sessions, others have to work for weeks to reach terms that are appropriate and fair given the marital circumstances.
Litigation is still an option
Mediation requires a cooperative approach to divorce negotiations. Spouses must act in good faith, or mediation may not be successful. In scenarios where one spouse has behaved manipulatively or been untruthful during mediation, continuing to try to settle outside of court might not be reasonable.
In cases where there are questions about the accuracy of financial disclosures, for example, litigation can be a critical form of protection for the spouse dealing with deceptive conduct and financial misrepresentation. Although mediation can be successful even in complex divorces and cases involving high levels of conflict, sometimes spouses recognize that they simply cannot cooperate with one another despite their best intentions.
When mediation is not successful, the spouses have to begin preparing for litigation. In a litigated divorce, a judge applies state statutes to settle disagreements between spouses.
Having legal guidance during divorce mediation can make it easier for spouses to compromise as necessary and recognize when continuing to mediate isn't appropriate. Spouses who know what to expect can approach mediation with confidence and move on to litigation if necessary.]]>On Behalf of Carolann M. Aschoff, P.C.<![CDATA[Can one spouse prevent the other from securing a divorce?]]>https://www.njfamilyattorney.net/?p=520482025-11-03T11:43:25Z2025-11-03T11:43:25ZDivorce without spousal participation is possible
The divorce process begins when one spouse files a petition with the family courts. They must legally serve their spouse with information about the divorce. The responding or served spouse then has an opportunity to counter the proposed terms by filing a response with the courts.
People who do not want to divorce generally still need to acknowledge the divorce filing or propose alternate terms. If they do not participate whatsoever, their decisions do not prevent the divorce. Instead, the New Jersey courts can grant a divorce by default, also known as a “divorce on the papers.”
The responding spouse does not have to provide any input or appear in court at all for the filing spouse to legally complete the divorce process. The courts can grant a default divorce if the filing spouse follows the right procedures.
The non-filing spouse typically has 35 days in which to respond to the legal paperwork they receive. If they fail to do so, the filing spouse has 60 days in which to request a divorce from the courts.
A family law judge can approve a divorce without the active involvement of both spouses and may agree to all the terms proposed in the initial paperwork submitted by the filing spouse. Even in cases where one spouse is entirely uninvolved or opposed to the divorce process, it is still possible to legally end a marriage.
Learning about the rules that govern divorce proceedings can help people prepare for every possible outcome. One spouse refusing to participate does not prevent the courts from granting a divorce in most cases.]]>On Behalf of Carolann M. Aschoff, P.C.<![CDATA[3 concerns when sharing custody of a child with special needs]]>https://www.njfamilyattorney.net/?p=520492025-10-04T20:12:52Z2025-10-04T20:12:52Z1. The increased need for stability
Generally speaking, all children require routine and stability. For children with special needs, stability is critical for their ability to function. Parents may need to make certain arrangements to keep them in the same environment and school district. They may need to work carefully to preserve the child's schedule and to make things as consistent as possible between the homes.
2. Difficulty sharing medical authority
Shared legal authority is standard in cases where parents share custody. They share the power to make decisions, as well as the right to have time with the children. Unfortunately, shared legal custody may not be the best arrangement in cases involving children with special needs. Agreeing to allow one parent to have final decision-making authority because they play more of an active role in the child's medical care might be appropriate. Otherwise, parents may need to have plans in place to navigate disputes about medical care and possibly also decisions related to education.
3. Child care needs
When parents live together, it may be possible for one to stop working or to work part-time to serve as the primary caregiver for a child with special needs. When parents start living separately, such arrangements may not be sustainable. Parents may have to work out an agreement regarding standards for child care providers so they can both work. Children with special needs are particularly vulnerable to abuse from professional caregivers, as providing them with support can be more demanding than caring for other children of the same age. Parents may need to work together to ensure that any outside care they secure is appropriate and safe.
Taking the time to address unique issues that complicate shared custody when a child has special needs can help parents prioritize their child's best interests. Parents who center their major decisions in this way may find it easier to work cooperatively and minimize the impact that their divorce has on their children.]]>