Frequently Asked Questions about Divorce Mediation

• Is mediation valuable for dissolving Domestic Partnerships?

   

  Yes.  As of 2004, the state of New Jersey recognizes Domestic Partnerships between cohabitating same sex couples and opposite sex couples who are over the age of 62.  When these relationships need to be dissolved, mediation can be helpful in sorting out the issues no differently than a matrimonial divorce.  However, the law in NJ provides for a "divorce" of sorts for couples under Domestic Partnerships, but some of the details are slightly different than dissolving a marriage.   For instance, NJ law does not offer a right of entitlement to support, or property sharing when the domestic partnership dissolves. So, a court cannot enforce alimony, or equitable distribution of assets for domestic partners.  There are also no automatic rights in regards to children.  All of these issues can be discussed in mediation.

   

  Please keep in mind that this is a very rapidly evolving area of the law and things change quickly.  Nevertheless, the benefits of mediation still apply.

   

  If you are in a Civil Union, please see the FAQ answer here.

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