If you are going through a divorce, you will more than likely need the representation of an experienced family lawyer. At Law Offices of Steven P. Monaghan, we help clients get through the divorce process as favorably as possible. We understand that this is probably one of the most emotionally trying experiences you have ever been through, and we are here to provide the supportive legal guidance and compassionate support you deserve. Whether your divorce can be resolved in a peaceful manner or calls for litigation in the courtroom, you can be confident that when you work with our firm, you will have professionals by your side who genuinely care about your well-being and are determined to help you move forward.
Your Trusted & Compassionate
Divorce Team
Our legal team is here to help you get through divorce and begin the next chapter of your life. Call today to learn more about how we can help.
Begin with a Consultation-
Experienced
With plenty of experience handling divorce cases, we know what it takes to ensure your process goes as smoothly as possible.
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Skilled
Seasoned and skilled in negotiation and litigation, we can represent you whether your divorce is handled in or out of the courtroom.
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Passionate
We truly care about our clients and are passionate about doing all we can to ensure the interests of you and your family are protected.
Divorce Attorney
We Offer the Solutions You Need to Move Forward Favorably
What Does a Divorce Entail?
A divorce does not just mean a marriage coming to an end—there are a number of factors that go along with the divorce process. Our team is equipped to assist you throughout your entire divorce and provide helpful guidance.
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Alimony
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Child Custody
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Child Support
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Property Division
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Modifications
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Fathers’ Rights
You May Be Wondering...
Frequently Asked Questions
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Questions
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How long does the divorce process take?
Answer
The amount of time a divorce takes depends on a number of factors including the county it takes place in, the judge, and whether it is a contested or uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces are quicker and, on average, take about 3 months. Contested divorces are longer processes and, on average, take about 12 months.
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How are contested and uncontested divorce different?
Answer
When a divorce is uncontested, both parties are able to agree on most terms of their divorce including custody, child support, alimony, property division and more. When the parties are unable to agree on the terms, they will have to file for a contested divorce. This process takes longer because it involves time spent in court, where a judge will make the decisions for the divorcing spouses.
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Will I have to take my case to court?
Answer
While it is not necessary to go to court, many divorce cases are handled in the courtroom. When you work with our firm, we will try to help you end your marriage in a manner that is as amicable as possible; however, this is not always an option. If you are unable to resolve your divorce peacefully, we are prepared to represent you in court, where we will ensure your rights and interests are protected.
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Why do I need an attorney?
Answer
The family law system can be complicated, and divorce proceedings can be especially personal, complex, and emotionally charged. You need a lawyer who will actively protect your rights and interests, and ensure your divorce goes as smoothly as possible. When you work with our firm, we will provide you with supportive guidance from start to finish, and help pave your path toward a better future.
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Steven P. Monaghan
Board-Certified Matrimonial Law Expert
Steven P. Monaghan, a highly respected divorce lawyers, focuses his practice exclusively in this area, including handling litigation, collaborative matters, and mediation, and has been Certified by the New Jersey Supreme in Matrimonial Law since 2006. This certification is awarded only to attorneys who have demonstrated their skill and achievement in matrimonial law.
With 23 years of experience, Mr. Monaghan has a proven dedication to the law and helping families. He has served on the Monmouth County Family Law Committee and has also been a private arbitrator for the Matrimonial Early Settlement Panel Program for 16 years and is a qualified mediator participating in the Mediation Program for Economic Aspects of Family Law since the program began. He has been appointed as Guardian Ad Litem for children of families going through litigation and has been trusted to resolve hundreds of high conflict cases before litigation.
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Kristin S. Pallonetti
Attorney
Kristin S. Pallonetti, Esq. is one of the top family law attorneys in the area. In 2014 she was named one of the Top Young Attorneys in New Jersey by Super Lawyers Rising Stars. She was again named by Super Lawyers as a New Jersey Rising Star in 2015.
She has an active family law trial practice, and she has tried numerous cases, including cases that involve domestic violence, alimony cohabitation, child support, parenting time, custody, and enforcement of support and custody orders. Before embarking on her private practice, Ms. Pallonetti completed a judicial law clerkship with the Honorable Eugene A. Iadanza, A.J.S.C., former presiding Judge of Monmouth and Mercer Counties, where her focus as a clerk was in the area of family and juvenile law. She also served as a Court Mediator for the Special Civil Division under the supervision of the Honorable Lisa P. Thorton, JA.J.S.C. where she mediated countless cases.
Ms. Pallonetti's prior legal experience also included a clerkship at the New Haven County Court where she aided victims of domestic violence in file temporary restraining orders. She also served in clerkship with the firm Campbell, Foley, Lee, Murphy & Cernigliaro in Asbury Park, New Jersey, and a clerkship with the Law Offices of Erskine D. McIntosh in Hamden, Connecticut.
Ms. Pallonetti graduated Cum Laude from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications and a minor in English in 2003. She received her Juris Doctorate, Cum Laude from Quinnipiac University School of Law in 2008 where she was the Executive VP of the Mock Trial Honor Society, recipient of the Sappern Fellowship, Admissions Ambassador for the law school and a member in both the Family Law and Constitutional Law Societies.
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Jessica L. Berg
Attorney
Divorce Attorney Jessica L. Berg practices exclusively in matrimonial law at the Law Office of Steven P. Monaghan, LLC. Since graduating Widener University School of Law, where she received recognition for her volunteer and pro bono work, she gained valuable experience working at a firm that solely handled family law matters, as well as experience with the non-profit group, the Community Health Law Project, that assists disabled individuals with matrimonial and civil law issues. Ms. Berg also worked with the Delaware Civil Clinic and was certified by the Supreme Court of Delaware to handle and litigate cases involving obtaining protection or restraining orders for those harmed by domestic violence and abuse.
Why Choose Our Firm?
Clients First. Quality Always.
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30+ Years of Combined Experience
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Thousands of Cases Handled
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Exclusively Practicing Family Law
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Certified by the Supreme Court of NJ
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Complimentary, In-Person Consultations