Once you receive a summons and complaint for divorce in New Jersey, the case has officially started in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Chancery Division, Family Part. What you do next matters because your response helps preserve your chance to address custody, support, alimony and property division.
Watch the 35-day response period
In New Jersey, you generally have 35 days from the date you receive the divorce papers to file a written response with the court. If you do not respond on time, your spouse may ask the court to move the case forward without your input.
Choose the right type of response
The state offers different ways to respond, depending on your position in the case. You may be able to file:
- An Answer to admit or deny the statements in the complaint
- An Answer and Counterclaim to respond and ask for a divorce based on your own grounds
- An Appearance if you do not contest the divorce but want the court to hear your position on custody, parenting time, support, alimony or property division.
Choosing the right filing helps the court understand what you agree with, what you dispute and what issues you still need to resolve.
Prepare financial information carefully
If your divorce involves custody, support, alimony or equitable distribution, you may need to complete a Case Information Statement. Gather records such as pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, loan information and monthly bills to complete the form accurately.
These records can help you complete the form more clearly and consistently. Avoid including unnecessary personal identifiers, such as full account numbers, unless required.
File, serve and keep copies
After completing your response, you may need to file it with the court, pay the filing fee or request a fee waiver. Many New Jersey family court documents are now filed electronically through court systems such as JEDS or eCourts, depending on the filing and case type.
Respecting the 35-day deadline and organizing your financial records early can help you move through the process with more clarity.
