Frequently Asked Questions
Answers from Our Hackensack Lawyers
When you are involved in a stressful and emotional family law matter throughout Bergen County, turn to a firm you can trust. At Laterra & Hodge, LLC, we are proud to have a Certified Matrimonial Trial Attorney and member of the prestigious American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers on our team. This means that we always stay educated and up to date with the latest trends and changes in the law.
When you have questions, our Hackensack attorneys can help. Read answers to some frequently asked questions below or call (201) 580-2240 to discuss your case during a free consultation.
Is mediation right in my divorce case?
If you and your spouse can agree on certain issues, such as custody and financial support, mediation may be a good way to settle your uncontested divorce quicker and with less stress, cost, and disruption to your family’s life. Mediation allows you to sit down with your spouse and come to an agreement without having to go to court or be seen before a judge. This allows you to resolve differences on your terms in a confidential and comfortable setting.
Are premarital agreements necessary?
There are many misconceptions and benefits surrounding premarital agreements. Many believe that these are a precursor to divorce, or set up a precedent of distrust in a marriage. This, however, is far from true. Premarital agreements can help set specific terms for worst-case scenarios, including death, disability, or divorce. This means that the issues you decide on now, when you are not facing a stressful situation or under emotional duress, can help you face stressful situations in the future. These agreements can lay out the terms for spousal support, equitable distribution, child custody, separate property, and other issues to help save you time, stress, and money in the future.
What is the difference between divorce and separation?
Unlike divorce, separation is not a final and complete end to your marriage. Separation allows couples a period of time to work out their issues and differences without having to go through divorce proceedings in court. There are still a number of issues to be decided, including who will move out and where children will live, but separation allows you to settle these matters for a temporary period in order to give you space and time to work out your problems, if possible.
Am I entitled to alimony?
Alimony, or spousal support, is given on a case-by-case basis. The court will determine if a spouse is eligible based on a number of factors, including the need for financial support, the length of the marriage, expenses needed for training to get back into the workforce, the mental and physical health of the spouse seeking the award, and the lifestyle that the spouses have become accustomed to, among other factors.
Can I dispute a custody arrangement?
Based on a number of factors, a court may reconsider or amend a child custody agreement for physical or legal custody. Except in proven cases of abuse, these matters can be amended in family court.
How can I protect myself against domestic violence?
Often your best option is to file a restraining order against an offending spouse. This can not only help prevent future issues of abuse, but it will legally force an offender to stay away from you, your children, or your home. It can also limit contact via phone, email, or text to protect you from the emotional components of abuse cases.
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Our Passion & Drive Comes From Helping Families Like Yours
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“Worked out even better than I could have anticipated”
A positive recommendation for Laterra & Hodge is the very least I can do in appreciation of what they have done for me. From the time that I came into the office for an "Free Consultation" Scott Laterra not only made ME - a single-mom/custodial parent in a uphill battle to get a fair chance in the NJ Family Court of Law - feel comfortable during an extremely stressful and taxing time. Unlike many other attorneys I could have selected who would've been content with money, Scott in turn selected me based on my character and desire to do the right thing. This shared value took us all the way to a successful outcome that worked out even better than I could have anticipated. I will be forever grateful for Scott's direction, compassion and dedication to see this process through. At the end of it all - it was all worth it! A special Thanks to you Scott...and Your special Tie :-)- Jessica A. -
“No doubt I'll use him again if I needed a legal advice.”
I found Scott Laterra here on Avvo. And after viewing multiple attorneys' feedbacks, I decided to go with him. It was absloutely the right choice. He is very attentive, good listerner, will hear you and work with you. My content stems from the fact that I was not misguided throughout the process of my divorce. Majority of lawyers take advantage of the vulnerable situation and milk your bank account all out. Well, not this one. My divorce was finalized last week. He even cut me a break on my last invoice. I genuinely think he did deserve the fees I paid given his and his office proficiency. No doubt I'll use him again if I needed a legal advice.- Fady A. -
“I am confident in recommending Scott to friends, family and associates for his outstanding legal skills and advice.”
Scott was retained as my attorney for divorce proceedings about five years ago. From the beginning, he displayed his complete knowledge of the law and individual rights. With compassion, he worked with me to steer clear of unnecessary conflicts and expenses. During the entire process, I felt like I was with a trusted friend while receiving excellent advice. He even made himself available for many important discussions well after business hours and on weekends. Since the divorce, Scott has worked diligently to advise me on any issues that have arisen. He helped me to resolve any and all additional concerns in a very timely and professional manner. I am confident in recommending Scott to friends, family and associates for his outstanding legal skills and advice.- Dave Z -
“Scott gave me trustworthy advise and comfort during a nerve racking situation.”
Scott was very helpful and honest when consulting with me. While some lawyers may take advantage and prey on a client during a vulnerable time, Scott gave me trustworthy advise and comfort during a nerve racking situation. Very professional and reliable from what I've experienced so far.- Luis C. -
“His firm gave me a sense of stability in the midst of chaos”
Provided a strong, comforting presence at a very stressful and upsetting time in my life. His firm gave me a sense of stability in the midst of chaos by reaffirming my beliefs in what is right in raising a child and what is important in recovery from divorce.- Laura R. -
“The representation I received from Mr Hodge was second to none.”
About a year ago I went through a divorce. As anyone who has ever went through a divorce, they can be very difficult especially when children are involved. I have to say that the legal work and the representation I received from Mr Hodge was second to none. I highly recommend using Jeff, I hired a lawyer and gained a life long friend.- Joe K. -
“I can highly recommend Scott for anyone who is undergoing a divorce”
I have used services of Scott Laterra for my divorce. He was very helpful and knowledgeable. He provided invaluable expertise to make sure that my case is resolved in the most beneficial for me manner. Scott was always suggesting ways to minimize my expenses and still receive maximum benefits from this divorce. I can highly recommend Scott for anyone who is undergoing a divorce if that person wants to get a knowledgeable advice and fair representation.- Alex O. -
“Jeff is a trustworthy and knowledgeable attorney.”
Jeff is a trustworthy and knowledgeable attorney. He was very comforting and sympathetic during a tough time. He put me at ease and explained the motions of my divorce during times where I felt frustrated. He is compassionate and very easy to talk to. I recommend LaTerra and Hodge to anyone looking for a matrimonial attorney.- Maria B.