Going through a divorce is a stressful time in one’s life, so finding a good matrimonial attorney to help you navigate the process is invaluable. Choosing an attorney to represent you in any legal matter requires serious consideration. Often, clients do not know where to start their search, let alone what they are looking for in a good attorney. With over 80,000 attorneys licensed to practice law in the state of New Jersey, it is no wonder the process for selecting an attorney can be daunting.
Why Choose A Certified Matrimonial Attorney?
The New Jersey Supreme Court established a certification process for matrimonial lawyers to allow the public to be able to find an attorney who has demonstrated experience and knowledge in this particular area of law. With the rigorous requirements that we will discuss in this article, clients who choose a New Jersey Certified Matrimonial Attorney know that they will be guided through a difficult process by a professional who not only knows how to handle the legal matter, but is also well-respected by his or her peers. The New Jersey Supreme Court has certified only about 2% of the more than 80,000 New Jersey attorneys.
What Are The Minimum Requirements To Become A Certified Matrimonial Attorney?
The requirements to become a New Jersey Certified Matrimonial Attorney make it clear that only those attorneys who are highly educated, experienced, and well-regarded by fellow legal professionals will be considered to hold such a distinction.
- The attorney must be a member in good standing of the New Jersey Bar for at least five years,
- The attorney must take a specific number of continuing legal education courses in the three years prior to filing an application,
- The attorney must demonstrate substantial involvement in matrimonial legal matters,
- The attorney must demonstrate an unblemished reputation in the legal community by submitting a list of attorneys and judges who will attest to the applicant’s character and ability, and
- The attorney must pass a written exam covering various aspects of practice in matrimonial law
What Types Of Issues Can A Certified Matrimonial Attorney Help A Client With?
Matrimonial law is defined as the practice of law dealing with aspects of domestic relationships. It covers a wide range of “family law” practice areas, including:
- Divorce
- Annulments
- Child support
- Child Custody and Visitation
- Alimony
- Paternity
- Equitable Distribution
- Domestic Violence
How Do Clients Know That An Attorney Is A Certified Matrimonial Attorney?
Only attorneys who have been certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as a matrimonial attorney are allowed to use the designation “Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Matrimonial Law Attorney.” If an attorney is certified, you will likely see it listed on their business cards, website, or brochures.
Peter Van Aulen is certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as a Matrimonial Attorney, and has been a family law attorney for over 20 years. Call Peter Van Aulen today at (201) 845-7400 for a free initial consultation.