While Some States Slow Down Divorce, Others Put the Pedal to the Metal
As we mentioned in a post last week, some states have made a move toward lengthening their divorce process in the name of looking out for the best interest of children. New Jersey is evidently not as concerned with such things. In fact, New Jersey is set to become the East Coast version of Vegas.
Legislation is currently sitting on New Jersey Governor Chris Christie’s desk which would turn this into a reality. The bill, if signed, would make it easier to get married in the state and would also expedite the process of getting a divorce.
The bill was passed by both houses of the New Jersey Legislature last week and would eliminate a mandatory 72-hour waiting period for a marriage or civil union license. The speed comes at a cost, however. The bill would see the cost of a marriage license rise to $60 from $28. Additionally, the bill would allow couples to annul a marriage within 30 days without the need to go to a court. Specific details on how the annulment process would function are still being hammered out.
The current rules in New Jersey require those who want an uncontested divorce to wait at least six months. The number is reduced to three months if the couple can demonstrate that the marriage is not working and that there has been fault.
The new bill has its fans and its detractors. Some believe it will bring more visitors to the state, increase revenue and be a generally positive change for New Jersey. Others say it cheapens the sanctity of marriage and will lead to increased family problems in the state.
If you or someone you know is facing the prospect of a divorce in South Carolina and in need of advice on our state’s unique process, turn to an experienced South Carolina family law attorney for help.
Source: “New Jersey Weddings May Go Vegas Style,” published at WSJ.com.
See Our Related Blog Posts:
- States Move to Put the Brakes on Divorce
- Marriage-Be-Gone: The Benefits of Annulment in South Carolina
