Our Family Law Services Trusted By New Jersey
Family law cases typically become complicated very quickly. It’s normal for emotions to be high as you plan for a new kind of future. Our firm has over 40 years of legal experience helping families in New York and New Jersey create a new normal. At Lofaro & Headley, LLC, you can rest assured knowing that your concerns are our number one priority.
A Firm With Many Different Practice Areas
No two cases are the same and you need the individualized attention you deserve. We focus on your unique needs and do our best to guide you through all your options. We handle a variety of practice areas. They include:
- Divorce, whether you are considering it or have decided
- Child custody, including child support and updating your plans
- Division of property and debt – Figuring out what that looks like
- Parenting time, making sure each parent has time with their child
- Spousal support/alimony, such as determining how much is owed moving forward
Our firm handles each case with compassion and understanding. While we have handled thousands of cases, we pride ourselves on always being available. We speak both English and Spanish to accommodate all your needs.
Our Team Approach To Family Law Matters
When you work with our firm, you benefit from two attorneys who collaborate on your case. Wayne Headley and Lawrence Lofaro bring different advocacy styles to family law matters. This dual perspective proves valuable in emotionally charged situations where families need both compassion and aggressive representation. One attorney might focus on negotiating a settlement while the other prepares for potential litigation. This ensures we remain ready for any outcome.
Our combined experience of over 40 years in New Jersey family law means we have handled thousands of cases throughout Hoboken, Jersey City and surrounding communities. We have seen how different approaches work in various situations. When you face difficult decisions about your family’s future, having two experienced family law attorneys examine your case from multiple angles provides a significant advantage. We work together to identify solutions that protect your interests and your children’s well-being.
Contested Vs. Uncontested Divorce
Not all divorces follow the same path. Understanding the difference between contested and uncontested divorces helps you know what to expect. In an uncontested divorce, the spouses should agree on all major issues. This covers property division, child custody, support and alimony. These cases typically move faster through the court system, cost less in legal fees and create less stress for everyone involved.
A contested divorce happens when spouses disagree on one or more major issues. Common points of conflict include:
- How to divide marital property and debt
- Child custody and parenting time arrangements
- Child support amounts
- Spousal support or alimony payments
Many contested divorces settle through negotiation or mediation. We work to resolve disputes without going to trial whenever possible. However, when negotiation fails to protect your interests, we prepare for litigation. At Lofaro & Headley, LLC, we handle both contested and uncontested divorces effectively. We adapt our strategy based on your unique circumstances and what works best for your family’s future.
Do I need to hire a lawyer to file my divorce?
You are not legally required to hire a lawyer to file for divorce in New Jersey; you have the right to represent yourself “pro se.” However, you must still follow all formal court rules and procedures as a lawyer would. The New Jersey Courts provide forms, but parties must still adhere to all Rules of Court and statutory requirements. Pro se filing is generally only recommended for “uncontested” cases with no assets or children.
How do I get child support if I was never married to my child’s biological father?
To get child support when unmarried, you must file an application in the Nondissolution (FD) unit of the Family Division. If the father has not signed a Certificate of Parentage, the court will first need to establish legal paternity, sometimes via DNA testing, before ordering support. Support is calculated using the New Jersey Child Support Guidelines.
My child’s father moved out of state. Do we still need to have parenting time with him?
Yes. A parent’s move out of state does not end their right to parenting time. The logistical parenting time schedule must change. We can help you file a motion to modify the schedule to create a “long-distance” parenting plan that replaces weekly visits with longer stays during holidays or school breaks and regular video calls.
Contact Us Today To Discuss Your Needs
If you have questions about family law, it is important to talk to an experienced attorney. Call our office in Hoboken today at 201-467-4020 or fill out our contact form online.