Contact Us for a Free Case Evaluation (732) 751-4991
Contact Us for a Free Case Evaluation

Villani & DeLuca Divorce Blogs

Top 5 Mistakes People Make During a New Jersey Divorce (And How to Avoid Them)

Posted by Vincent C. DeLuca | Jun 30, 2025 | 0 Comments

Divorce Lawyer

Divorce is never easy, and in New Jersey, the process can feel especially overwhelming. Whether you're filing in Ocean County, Monmouth County, or elsewhere in the state, it's important to avoid missteps that can affect your future.

Here are the top five divorce mistakes people make in NJ—and how to protect yourself.

1. Making Emotional Decisions Instead of Strategic Ones

Anger, guilt, or fear can lead people to agree to unfair settlements or make impulsive choices. Divorce is a legal process—you need to think long-term.

Avoid it: Work with an experienced NJ divorce attorney who will help you stay focused on what matters most: your children, finances, and future.

2. Hiding Assets or Being Dishonest

Some spouses try to underreport income or hide property. This often backfires.

Avoid it: Be transparent. NJ courts require full financial disclosure. Lying can damage your credibility and cost you more in the end.

3. Moving Out Without a Plan

Leaving the marital home without understanding the consequences can impact custody, finances, or your claim to the property.

Avoid it: Consult your attorney before moving out. You might still have rights even if you're no longer living there.

4. Using Kids as Leverage

Dragging children into disputes or speaking poorly about your spouse in front of them hurts everyone—especially your kids.

Avoid it: Focus on co-parenting and shielding your children from the legal conflict. Courts prioritize the best interests of the child.

5. Going Without Legal Help

Trying to DIY your divorce may seem like a money-saver, but it often leads to serious mistakes in custody, alimony, or asset division.

Avoid it: Get legal guidance from a seasoned NJ divorce attorney who knows the court system and how to protect your rights. Depending on your situation divorce mediation may be the right choice for you which is cheaper than traditional litigation. Click here to learn more about the benefits of divorce mediation. 


Need Help Avoiding These Pitfalls?

Villani & DeLuca, P.C. has been guiding clients through divorce in Ocean and Monmouth Counties for over 25 years. We'll help you make smart, informed decisions from day one. Contact us today at (732) 751-4991 for your free first consultation with one of our experienced family law attorneys

About the Author

Vincent C. DeLuca
Vincent C. DeLuca

Vincent C. DeLuca, a partner of the firm, devotes the entirety of his practice to family law. Vince is a trained divorce mediator and collaborative divorce attorney. Vince is certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a matrimonial law attorney. Less than .002% of all practicing attorneys in...

Comments

There are no comments for this post. Be the first and Add your Comment below.

Leave a Comment

Vincent DeLuca, Esq.

As a founding partner at Villani & DeLuca, Vincent DeLuca is one of only a few Certified Matrimonial Law Attorney in Ocean County, New Jersey. Mr. DeLuca has helped many clients navigate the delicate details of their own divorce. Mr. DeLuca is also a trained divorce mediator and collaborative divorce attorney. Call today at (732) 751-4991 to speak to Mr. DeLuca or one of our experienced NJ Divorce Lawyers.

Menu