Typical Family Law Situations We Handle
As a family law attorney in New Jersey, Steven Garfinkle guides clients through divorce, child custody and parenting time, child support and alimony, property division, and prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, so you can move forward with confidence.
You’re thinking about divorce or separation
You’re considering ending your marriage or your spouse has already filed. You need a divorce attorney who can explain your rights and what to expect with property, support, and parenting time.
You’re worried about child custody and parenting time
You want to protect your relationship with your children and create a parenting schedule that truly works. You’re looking for a child custody lawyer who understands both the law and the emotional stakes.
You need clarity on child support, alimony, and retirement accounts
You’re unsure how much support you may pay or receive, or how to divide retirement assets. Steven helps with child support, alimony, and QDROs so the financial side of your case is handled correctly
You want a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement
You’re planning to marry or already married and want a fair, enforceable prenuptial agreement that protects both partners. Steven drafts clear agreements that reduce future conflict, not create it.
Why Work with a Family Law Attorney in New Jersey
Divorce and Separation
Steven represents clients in contested and uncontested divorces, legal separations, and annulments. He guides you through property division, debt allocation, and support so you understand your options at every step.
Child Custody and Parenting Time
If criminal charges are involved, our Criminal Defense Attorney in New Jersey practice works alongside your family law case to protect your record and your future.
Child Support, Alimony, and QDROs
Steven advises on child support calculations, spousal support (alimony), and QDROs for dividing retirement accounts. His goal is to create a fair, sustainable financial plan that matches your real-life needs.
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
As a prenuptial agreement lawyer, Steven drafts and reviews prenups and postnups that protect assets, clarify expectations, and stand up in court without undermining the relationship.
Family Law Cases Involving Domestic Violence
When domestic violence is part of a family law case, Steven coordinates restraining orders, custody, and support so you and your children stay protected. Learn more about our Domestic Violence Attorney in New Jersey practice.
Our Process in Family Law Cases
Free confidential consultation
You meet directly with an experienced family law attorney to discuss your situation — divorce, custody, support, or a potential prenup. Steven listens, answers your immediate questions, and outlines your options in plain language.
Case evaluation and strategy
Steven reviews court papers, financial records, parenting histories, and any prior orders. He then builds a tailored strategy for your goals — whether that’s protecting time with your children, securing financial stability, or resolving your case without a trial.
Representation in court and negotiations
Steven advocates for you in negotiations, mediation, and, when needed, in court. As a divorce and custody lawyer, he focuses on practical, durable solutions instead of unnecessary fights that drain time and money.
Ongoing support and follow-up
Family law cases don’t end with a single order. Steven continues to advise on modifications of custody, parenting time, child support, and alimony, as well as enforcement issues, so your legal plan can evolve as your family’s needs change.
What Makes Steven Different in Family Law Cases
Justice
Steven fights for outcomes that are truly fair – not just on paper. In divorce, custody, and support cases, he works to protect both your legal rights and your long-term stability.
Experience
With decades of focused practice in New Jersey family law, Steven understands how judges think, how cases are likely to unfold, and what strategies give you the strongest position.
Dedication
You work directly with your family law attorney, not a revolving door of associates. Steven personally prepares your case, appears with you in court, and stays available when decisions feel overwhelming.
Practical, child-focused approach
Legal battles can damage families for years. Steven’s approach is practical and child-focused, aiming to reduce conflict where possible while firmly protecting your rights when it isn’t.
Family Law FAQs
Even in a “simple” divorce, decisions about property, debt, and child custody can have long-term consequences. A divorce and family lawyer helps you understand what you’re signing, protects you from hidden pitfalls, and makes sure any agreement is clear and enforceable.
Courts look at the best interests of the child — including each parent’s relationship with the child, work schedule, history of caregiving, and any safety concerns. Steven uses his experience as a child custody attorney to present a clear picture of your parenting and advocate for a schedule that works in real life.
New Jersey uses guidelines for child support, and alimony depends on factors like income, length of the marriage, and each spouse’s needs and abilities. Steven reviews your finances, explains realistic ranges, and helps you negotiate or litigate support that is fair and sustainable.
A prenuptial agreement can be especially helpful if you own a business, have significant assets or debts, or children from a prior relationship. Steven drafts and reviews prenups so they are clear, balanced, and more likely to be respected by the court.
Yes. If your circumstances change job loss, relocation, changes in the children’s needs you may be able to modify custody, parenting time, child support, or alimony. Steven advises whether a change is likely to be approved and represents you in modification proceedings.
Talk to Steven About Your Family Law Case
Whether you’re facing divorce, a custody dispute, questions about child support or alimony, or need a prenuptial agreement, you don’t have to sort it out alone.
Schedule a confidential consultation with a New Jersey family law attorney who will listen carefully, explain your options, and help you build a clear plan forward for you and your family.