In New Jersey, a dissolution of marriage can proceed without assigning blame to either party. This approach to ending a marriage focuses on the irretrievable breakdown of the relationship, meaning there are fundamental disagreements that cannot be resolved, and the marriage is beyond repair. For instance, a couple who has grown apart and no longer shares common interests can pursue this type of divorce, provided they demonstrate the marital discord has lasted for at least six months.
This system simplifies the divorce process by removing the need to prove wrongdoing, such as adultery or abandonment. This can lead to a less adversarial and more efficient resolution, potentially reducing legal costs and emotional distress for all parties involved. Historically, divorces required establishing fault, which could be a contentious and lengthy process. The shift towards allowing divorce based on irreconcilable differences acknowledges the evolving nature of marital relationships and provides a more humane approach to separation.
