Divorce & Family Law

Today’s decisions will impact your life tomorrow, and your family law situation is unique. Even if you are considering an uncontested divorce, consult with Steven Segalas. He has handled complex and routine family law matters for decades. Regardless of the family law issue, you need experienced counsel to advocate for your rights and protect your interests. Our firm represents clients in all aspects of family law which include:

Enforcement of Court Orders and Agreements

When someone ignores a legal agreement or Court Order, an entire family is impacted. Strong advocacy, and good judgment are required to handle such issues. You need a problem solver who can offer creative solutions and practical advice. Steven Segalas provides counsel that takes your needs into consideration with a view towards resolving conflict wherever possible. When a settlement is not possible, Steven Segalas is a skilled trial attorney who will fight for you.

Modification of Agreements or Court Orders

New Jersey Courts recognize that there are times when circumstances change or an agreement or order may no longer be fair. For instance, illness, change in family composition, and permanent loss of income are all circumstances that may require an agreement or order to be changed. If you have suffered a substantial change in circumstances, Steven Segalas provides effective representation for any post-divorce modification matters.

Domestic Violence 

The Prevent of Domestic Violence Act is designed to provide victims of domestic violence the maximum protection that the law offers to be free from abuse and control in family type relationships. Steven Segalas has over two decades of trial experience in the family courts of New Jersey. He has prosecuted and defended domestic violence cases throughout the State. He understands proper courtroom procedure, the dynamics of abusive relationships, and works diligently to gather the necessary information to achieve a proper outcome.

Closely Held Businesses

Perhaps one of the most trying aspects of a divorce matter is how to handle the valuation and equitable distribution of business interests. Mr. Segalas has a clear understanding of the interplay between the valuation of a business, its allocation in equitable distribution, and how that can impact on a company’s future. He utilizes professional assistance from qualified forensic accountants and works closely with them to permit a clear understanding not only of the value of the business, but also how its cash-flow may be impacted on by both spousal support and equitable distribution.

Divorce Law

There are nine grounds for divorce in New Jersey.

No fault grounds:

• Separation of at least 18 months
• Irreconcilable differences of at least six consecutive months rendering the marriage irretrievably broken

Fault based grounds:

• Abandonment for at least 12 months
• Addiction for at least 12 months
• Adultery
• Extreme cruelty
• Deviant sexual conduct
• Imprisonment leading to at least 18 months of living apart
• Institutionalization

Steven Segalas is certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Matrimonial Attorney, a designation held by a very small percentage of lawyers admitted to practice in the State of New Jersey. He focuses on the issues to resolve the case quickly when possible and both understands and explains the long-term impact of any proposed agreements.

Prenuptial Agreements

Steven Segalas anticipates and addresses potential problems through the preparation of a prenuptial agreement. Having Mr. Segalas draft your prenuptial agreement will help to protect you in the unfortunate event of a divorce. He strives to protect his clients and can assist you in successfully negotiating the terms of a premarital contract.

High Net Worth Divorces

When significant wealth and investments are involved in your divorce, it is essential for you to engage knowledgeable and experienced counsel. Steven Segalas will help you to ensure that your assets are identified, accurately appraised, and appropriately distributed, with the assistance of equally experienced financial professionals.

Child Custody

New Jersey courts are responsible for making child custody decisions based on the “best interests of the children.” Your custody agreement should be unique to your specific situation and adequately protect your children’s needs. Steven Segalas strives to achieve amicable custody agreements which protect children. When necessary, he will try custody matters through to conclusion and zealously advocate for your child’s needs.

Child Support

Child support is a right that belongs to a child; and any child determination can have a tremendous impact on the households of both parents. Steven Segalas understands the need to have resources available for your children whether or not they are primarily in your care. He strives to achieve child support awards that are fair to children and the parents who raise them.

Grandparent Rights

Grandparents may be entitled to visitation in certain situations in New Jersey. If you are seeking grandparent rights, consult with Steven Segalas to determine whether your situation satisfies the legal criteria required to support the filing of a petition to protect your relationship with your grandchildren.

Alimony

Steven Segalas assists his clients in understanding alimony and the statutory elements that must be considered in determining a proper alimony award.  While New Jersey Courts recognize the need for spousal support, and for both parties to maintain a somewhat similar standard of living as when they were married in the event of a divorce, in most instances, there are not sufficient resources to permit this to happen. In addition, recent and substantial changes to tax law will impact on how alimony is determined. Steven Segalas is equipped to help you navigate through this stress-filled process.

Equitable Distribution

New Jersey law provides generally that assets acquired during a marriage are to be equitably distributed. The law does not require 50/50 division. It requires consideration of many statutory factors and for property to be divided “fairly.” Steven Segalas works with his clients to identify both assets and liabilities that were lawfully acquired as part of the marital enterprise. His goal is to help you move past this difficult time and with your fair share of marital property.

Adoption 

Adopting a child is a wonderful way to expand your family and share your love. If you are considering adoption, The Segalas Law Firm will guide you through the practical and legal issues involved. It is important to contact us early in the process to ensure all parties receive qualified representation and counseling services. The Segalas Law Firm can help you to create an adoption plan that is legally appropriate and will meet the needs of both the birth and adoptive parents.

Speak with Steven Segalas in Confidence About Your Divorce Issue

If you would like to speak with Mr. Segalas about your divorce issue in New Jersey, please get in touch. To schedule an initial consultation at your convenience, please call (201) 212-6523 or inquire online today.