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 worse 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.
Hear It Directly From Our Clients
Our Passion & Drive Comes From Helping Families Like Yours
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“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 -
“He helps to make the journey a little better.”
I hired Mr Laterra to represent me when I was going through my divorce. During this very difficult time, he provided me with the knowledge, compassion and expertise that resulted in a fair and uneventful court settlement. He was able to keep me focused on the final outcome, even while the emotional toll of this ugly process was becoming too much to bear. Mr Laterrra has always been very professional and personable in his client relations. I never hesitate to call him and ask for his guidance. I trust him and the advice he gives me, even if it is not what I had originally wanted to hear. Also, as a client of his, I never felt like a "number" but as valued person. I cannot express the immeasurable value of this, especially when you are going through a major life crisis. I would absolutely recommend Mr Laterra's services for both the professionalism and compassion he displays in dealing with divorce proceedings. He helps to make the journey a little better.- Donna F. -
“He is professional and cares about his clients.”
Mr. Laterra helped my son move in with me.He handled the problem so I could continue to work.The final result is my son is with me and Mr. Laterra made that happen. He is professional and cares about his clients.I can't say enough about him.- Kenneth R. -
“No unnecessary drama”
Mr Laterra was my lawyer for divorce that was finalized in August 2014. I started with mediation in January with a different lawyer - which was a disaster. The mediation lawyer was not responsive. Mr Laterra worked to get the MOU done and the PSA and subsequently the divorce in a timely manner with no unnecessary drama. His paralegal, Ms. Khadkevich, is the most professional...- Melissa B. -
“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. -
“From start till the end they were there for me.”
Scott and his assistant Valentina were genuinely helpful and very professional. From start till the end they were there for me. There were very reasonable in their billing as well. I wish there are more law firms like them. I highly recommend them.- Salman M. -
“I felt he was very honest and had my best interest as the number one priority.”
Scott proved to be an outstanding attorney. He was extremely supportive and accommodating throughout the entire process. He was easy to talk to and was very understanding. It was not difficult at all to get in touch with him and he returned phone calls in a very reasonable amount of time. I felt he was very honest and had my best interest as the number one priority. He clearly defined all of my options without pushing me in a direction that suited him or his practice. His knowledge of matrimonial law really impressed me. I would absolutely recommend Scott to anyone in need of a lawyer who is going through a divorce.- Mike K. -
“I highly recommend Laterra and Hogde to anyone in need of a good divorce lawyer”
It has been a real pleasure working with Scott and Valentina. They were both supportive, extremely knowledgable, and very sincere. They made my divorce less painful and kept me informed throughout the whole process. Scott was always taking the time to listen to me, and to explain to me what I had not fully understood. Thank you so much Laterra and Hodge for the spectacular job you have done for me, exactly what I have needed. You made my life a lot more peaceful. I am a stronger, optimistic and confident person because of my attorney. I was very satisfied with Scott and Valentina and I highly recommend Laterra and Hogde to anyone in need of a good divorce lawyer.- Frederika V.