The divorce process can be a challenging journey, and for couples in New Jersey, the road has become even more daunting due to the judicial shortage crisis.

As reported by the New Jersey courts backlog tracker, around 4,000 divorce cases are currently in limbo, awaiting their turn to be heard before a judge. This backlog means that nearly 10,000 individuals find themselves stuck, unable to move forward with their lives.

Embracing creative out-of-court solutions

The frustration is real for couples who have found themselves entangled in this backlog. Waiting for months, or sometimes even longer, to have their cases heard in court can be emotionally and financially draining. In such circumstances, it is worth considering alternative paths to speed up the resolution of your divorce.

Mediation: A collaborative approach to resolution

Mediation stands out as a promising alternative to traditional courtroom drama. In this process, both parties agree to work with a neutral third party who guides them through the complexities of divorce negotiations. This confidential and low-conflict setting fosters open communication and allows couples to reach a final settlement agreement. The beauty of mediation lies in its efficiency – a few sessions can often suffice to address the issues at hand, helping couples avoid the prolonged waiting period of a court trial.

Arbitration: Swift decision-making with a neutral touch

Arbitration is like mediation – it is an out-of-court way for couples to manage their divorce. Here, a neutral third-party professional, an arbitrator, helps settle things. But what makes arbitration different is that the arbitrator can make the final call on the case. It speeds up closure for couples faster than waiting for a court trial.

A way forward

While the backlog in New Jersey’s courts might seem overwhelming, couples need not feel trapped by the system. By embracing alternative methods like mediation and arbitration, divorcing spouses can regain agency over their situation and expedite their journey toward a new chapter in their lives.

With creative solutions at their disposal, couples can find a way to settle their differences efficiently without enduring the lengthy wait imposed by the backlog.