Question 1

How much does it cost to file for divorce in Bergen County NJ in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Bergen County divorce filing fees for 2026 (effective January 1, 2026): COMPLAINT FOR DIVORCE FILING FEE: $300.00 - This is the main filing fee paid when divorce complaint is filed with Bergen County Superior Court in Hackensack. This fee is MANDATORY and required for all divorces whether contested or uncontested. Payable to 'Treasurer, State of New Jersey'. ADDITIONAL REQUIRED FEES (Most Cases): Case Management Fee: $50.00 - Required in most divorce cases for court's case management system. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Fee: $25.00 - Required fee supporting court mediation programs. Total Initial Filing Costs: $375.00 for typical divorce case ($300 complaint + $50 case management + $25 ADR). OPTIONAL/CONDITIONAL FEES: Motion Filing Fee: $50.00 per motion - If you file motions during divorce (temporary support, custody, discovery disputes, etc.), each motion requires $50 filing fee. Cross-Complaint Filing Fee: $300.00 - If your spouse files their own divorce complaint (cross-complaint) rather than just answering yours. Amended Complaint Fee: $35.00 - If you need to amend your complaint after filing. Certification Fee: $5.00 per certified copy - For certified copies of divorce judgment or other documents. Document Retrieval Fee: Varies - For retrieving old court files. Subpoena Fee: $1.50 per name - If you issue subpoenas for depositions or documents. WAIVER FOR INDIGENCY: If you cannot afford filing fees, you can apply for fee waiver by submitting: Application to Proceed as Indigent (Court Form), Affidavit of poverty showing income/assets/expenses, Supporting documentation (pay stubs, bank statements, etc.). If approved, court waives filing fees. Standards strict - generally must be at/near poverty level. E-FILING CONVENIENCE FEE: $3.50 per electronic filing - Small technology fee for e-filing through court's electronic filing system (eCourts). Charged by e-filing vendor, not court. Applies to most filings (complaint, motions, etc.). PAYMENT METHODS: Check or money order made payable to 'Treasurer, State of New Jersey', Credit/debit card (in person at courthouse or via e-filing system - small convenience fee applies ~2.5%), Cash (in person at courthouse filing window). NO personal checks for e-filing - must use credit/debit card. COMPARISON TO OTHER COUNTIES: Bergen County fees same as all NJ counties (state-set fees, not county-specific). Neighboring Hudson County: Same $300 complaint fee, same additional fees. Passaic County: Same fees. Essex County: Same fees. New Jersey has uniform statewide court filing fees set by NJ Supreme Court. FEE INCREASES: Fees increased January 1, 2024 from $250 to $300 for divorce complaint. No additional increases scheduled for 2026, but legislature can change anytime. Check current fees at time of filing. ATTORNEY FEES SEPARATE: These are COURT filing fees only. Attorney fees are separate and typically MUCH higher: Uncontested divorce attorney fees: $1,500-$3,500+ depending on complexity. Contested divorce attorney fees: $5,000-$50,000+ depending on length and issues. 345 Divorce offers flat-fee uncontested divorces starting at $1,500 (plus court filing fees). WHO PAYS FILING FEES: Generally, whoever files complaint pays initial $300 fee. Final divorce judgment can order one party to reimburse other for court costs, but initial payment required upfront. Some couples split costs if amicable. BUDGETING FOR BERGEN COUNTY DIVORCE: Minimum court costs (uncontested, no motions): $375. Average court costs (uncontested with few motions): $500-$700. Contested divorce court costs (multiple motions, trial): $1,000-$3,000+. Plus attorney fees, plus expert fees if needed (appraisers, forensic accountants, custody evaluators). Total divorce cost in Bergen County: Uncontested DIY: $375 (just court fees). Uncontested with attorney: $2,000-$4,000 (court fees + attorney). Contested: $10,000-$100,000+ depending on complexity and length. Contact 345 Divorce for detailed cost estimate for your specific Bergen County case: 201-205-3201 or www.345divorce.com

Question 2

How does e-filing work for divorce in Bergen County?

Accepted Answer

Bergen County Superior Court uses New Jersey's statewide electronic filing system called eCourts (also called JEDS - Judiciary Electronic Document Submission). Here's complete guide to how e-filing works: WHAT IS E-FILING: Electronic filing system allowing attorneys and self-represented parties to file court documents online 24/7, Upload documents from computer, pay fees electronically, receive instant filing confirmation, Documents delivered electronically to court and opposing counsel, Replaces physical filing (driving to courthouse, waiting in line, handing papers to clerk). MANDATORY VS OPTIONAL IN BERGEN COUNTY: E-filing is MANDATORY for attorneys in all civil cases including divorce (as of 2020 statewide mandate), Attorneys MUST e-file all documents - cannot file paper unless court grants specific exemption, Self-represented parties (people without attorney) can CHOOSE to e-file or file paper, Most people find e-filing easier and faster than paper filing. HOW TO E-FILE IN BERGEN COUNTY: Step 1 - Register for eCourts Account: Go to: https://portal.njcourts.gov, Click 'Register' and create account, Provide: Name, address, email, phone, bar number (if attorney), NJ Tax ID or SSN for verification, Create username and password, Verify email address, Registration approved within 1-2 business days. Step 2 - Prepare Documents: Create documents in Word, WordPerfect, or other word processor, Convert to PDF format (required for e-filing), Ensure documents comply with court rules: Proper formatting, Required signatures (can be electronic /s/ signature for most documents), Correct case caption if filing in existing case. Step 3 - Log Into eCourts: Go to https://portal.njcourts.gov, Enter username and password, Navigate to 'File a Document'. Step 4 - Select Case or Create New Case: If filing initial divorce complaint: Select 'New Case', Choose 'Superior Court', Choose 'Bergen County', Choose case type: 'Family - Divorce', If filing in existing case: Search for case by docket number or party names, Select your case. Step 5 - Upload Documents: Click 'Add Document', Select document type from dropdown (Complaint, Answer, Motion, etc.), Upload PDF file from computer, Add additional documents if filing multiple items, Review uploaded documents for accuracy. Step 6 - Complete Filing Information: Enter required information: Service list (who should receive copies - opposing party/attorney), Attorney information (if applicable), Party information, Certification of service (confirming you're serving other party). Step 7 - Pay Filing Fees: System calculates fees based on document type: Divorce complaint: $300 + $50 + $25 = $375, Motion: $50, Etc. Enter credit/debit card information (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Amex accepted), Pay $3.50 e-filing convenience fee (charged by vendor), Review and confirm payment. Step 8 - Submit Filing: Review everything one final time, Click 'Submit', System processes filing (usually instantly), Receive confirmation number. Step 9 - Confirmation and Filing Stamp: Receive email confirmation with: Filing date and time, Docket number (for new cases), File-stamped documents (PDF with court's electronic filing stamp), Download and save file-stamped documents for your records. Step 10 - Service on Opposing Party: System automatically sends notification to opposing attorney if they're registered e-filer, If opposing party is self-represented and NOT registered for e-filing, you must serve them conventionally (mail or hand delivery) AND file proof of service, Some documents still require formal service by sheriff or process server even with e-filing (initial divorce complaint in most cases). E-FILING HOURS: Available 24 hours/day, 7 days/week, Documents submitted after business hours deemed filed next business day, Holidays and weekends: filing date is next business day court is open. TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS: Computer with internet connection, PDF software (Adobe Acrobat or free alternatives), Web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge), Credit/debit card for fee payment, Email address for notifications. DOCUMENT FORMAT REQUIREMENTS: PDF format only (no Word, image files, etc.), Maximum file size: 100MB per document, Multiple documents can be filed together in one submission, Each document must be separate PDF, Bookmarked PDFs helpful for long documents but not required. SIGNATURES ON E-FILED DOCUMENTS: Attorney signature: /s/ [Attorney Name] is acceptable electronic signature, Self-represented party signature: Can use /s/ or scan handwritten signature and include in PDF, Certain documents require wet ink signature (original signed document mailed to court separately) - rare in divorce cases. ADVANTAGES OF E-FILING: Convenience: File from home/office 24/7, no courthouse trip, Speed: Instant filing vs waiting in line at courthouse, Confirmation: Immediate confirmation and file-stamped documents, Cost: Saves time and gas money driving to Hackensack courthouse, Environment: Paperless = eco-friendly, Access: Can access filed documents online anytime via eCourts. DISADVANTAGES/CHALLENGES: Technology barriers: Some people uncomfortable with computers, Technical issues: System occasionally down for maintenance, Payment required: Must have credit/debit card (can't use cash), Learning curve: First time using system can be confusing, Fee: $3.50 convenience fee per filing (minimal but adds up). GETTING HELP WITH E-FILING: eCourts Help Desk: 609-421-6100 (Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm), Email: ecourts@njcourts.gov, User guides available: https://www.njcourts.gov/courts/ecourts, Bergen County courthouse staff can answer general questions but cannot help you file, Attorneys: Hire attorney (345 Divorce) to handle all e-filing for you. E-FILING FOR DIVORCE SPECIFICALLY: Initial complaint: E-file complaint and supporting documents, pay $375 fees online, Service: Still must serve spouse personally with papers (e-filing doesn't substitute for service), Spouse's response: If spouse has attorney, they e-file answer; if self-represented, can e-file or paper file, Motions: All motions e-filed by attorneys, can be e-filed by self-represented, Final judgment: Attorney e-files proposed judgment, court reviews and enters electronically. WHEN E-FILING NOT AVAILABLE: Certain document types not yet available for e-filing (rare in divorce cases), System technical issues (can file paper as backup), Court-granted exemption (must apply and show good cause). PAPER FILING STILL POSSIBLE: Self-represented parties can choose paper filing, Go to Bergen County Superior Court (10 Main Street, Hackensack), File documents at Family Division filing window (Room 207), Pay fees by check, money order, or credit card, Receive file-stamped copies, More time-consuming but available if you prefer. 345 DIVORCE E-FILING SERVICES: We handle ALL e-filing for you (you never touch eCourts system), Ensure documents properly formatted and compliant, Pay fees and seek reimbursement from you (or you pay directly), Provide you with all file-stamped documents, Track case online and keep you informed, 15+ years Bergen County e-filing experience. Contact 345 Divorce for professional e-filing services for your Fort Lee divorce: 201-205-3201 or www.345divorce.com

Question 3

What documents are required to file for divorce in Bergen County?

Accepted Answer

Complete list of documents required to file divorce in Bergen County Superior Court (Hackensack): REQUIRED DOCUMENTS TO FILE DIVORCE COMPLAINT: 1. Complaint for Divorce (Court Form): Official NJ divorce complaint form or attorney-drafted complaint, Must include: Names and addresses of both spouses, Date and place of marriage, Grounds for divorce (irreconcilable differences most common), Children's names and birth dates (if any), Request for relief (equitable distribution, alimony, custody, child support, etc.), Verification (sworn statement that facts are true), Signed by plaintiff or plaintiff's attorney. 2. Summons: Official court summons notifying defendant of lawsuit, Pre-printed form available from court, Must be served on defendant along with complaint. 3. Confidential Litigant Information Sheet: Form listing: Social security numbers, Driver's license numbers, Confidential addresses if applicable, NOT public record - kept confidential by court, Required by court rules for all civil cases. 4. Case Information Statement (CIS): Detailed financial disclosure form (14 pages), Lists: All income (employment, investments, other sources), All assets (house, cars, bank accounts, retirement, etc.), All debts (mortgage, credit cards, loans), Monthly expenses (housing, utilities, food, insurance, etc.), Required when financial issues involved (property, support, alimony), If divorce uncontested with no financial issues, may be waived, Most divorces require CIS from both parties. 5. Certification of Insurance Coverage: If children involved, form certifying health insurance coverage, Lists current insurance provider and coverage, Required for child support calculations. 6. Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (if children): Spreadsheet calculating child support using NJ guidelines, Based on both parents' incomes, parenting time, other factors, Required before court will approve child support amount. 7. Certification of Verification: Statement verifying you've provided complete and accurate information, Signed under oath. ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS OFTEN FILED WITH COMPLAINT: 8. Verified Complaint: If seeking temporary relief (pendente lite relief) while divorce pending, More detailed complaint with supporting facts, Accompanied by motion for pendente lite relief. 9. Certification in Support of Motion: If filing motion with complaint (motion for pendente lite support, custody, etc.), Detailed statement of facts supporting motion, Exhibits attached (pay stubs, bank statements, etc.). 10. Notice of Motion: If filing motion, notice scheduling motion hearing date. 11. Proposed Order: Proposed court order for judge to sign if granting your motion. DOCUMENTS FOR UNCONTESTED DIVORCE (SUBMITTED LATER): 12. Answer and Counterclaim (or Appearance): Defendant's response to complaint, If uncontested, may be simple appearance or consent, If defendant has requests, may file counterclaim. 13. Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA): Comprehensive agreement between spouses covering: Property division, Debt allocation, Alimony (if any), Child custody and parenting time, Child support, Other issues, Signed by both parties, Notarized, Most important document in uncontested divorce. 14. Consent to Final Judgment: Both parties' consent to entry of divorce judgment, Waives certain rights (notice, trial, etc.), Required for uncontested divorce. 15. Proposed Final Judgment of Divorce: Proposed final court order divorcing parties, Incorporates MSA, Includes all required findings and provisions, Submitted to judge for review and signature. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS (Not Filed But Needed): 16. Marriage Certificate: Certified copy from vital records, Proves marriage for court, Not filed with complaint but may be required later. 17. Proof of Service: After serving defendant with complaint, must file proof of service showing defendant was properly served, Options: Acknowledgment of service (defendant signs), Certification of service by process server, Return of service by sheriff. 18. Financial Documentation: Pay stubs (3-6 months), Tax returns (2-3 years), Bank statements (3-6 months), Credit card statements, Retirement account statements, Mortgage statements, Business records if self-employed, Used to complete CIS and verify financial information. DOCUMENTS FOR FINAL HEARING: 19. Certification of Compliance: Statement that you've complied with all court requirements, Discovery completed, Financial disclosure provided, Etc. 20. Updated Case Information Statements: If significant time passed since initial CIS filed, Update both parties' CIS before final hearing. 21. Amended Proposed Judgment (if needed): If judge requires changes to proposed judgment. E-FILING THESE DOCUMENTS: All documents must be in PDF format for e-filing, Organize documents logically (complaint first, then supporting docs), Follow e-filing system prompts for document types, Pay required fees electronically. GETTING THE FORMS: Free forms: Available at www.njcourts.gov/forms, At Bergen County courthouse law library, Some forms provided by 345 Divorce when you retain us. Complex documents (MSA, judgment): Attorney should prepare (not DIY), 345 Divorce prepares all documents for clients. BERGEN COUNTY SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS: Bergen County may have local rules/forms in addition to statewide requirements, Check Bergen County Family Division website, Consult attorney familiar with Bergen County procedures (345 Divorce). DOCUMENT PREPARATION SERVICES: 345 Divorce prepares ALL required documents for you: Interview you to gather information, Draft complaint and all supporting documents, Prepare financial disclosures, Complete all court forms, E-file everything electronically, Ensure compliance with all Bergen County and NJ requirements, 15+ years experience with Bergen County divorce documents. DO NOT FILE INCOMPLETE DOCUMENTS: Court will reject filings missing required documents or information, Results in delays and wasted filing fees, Better to consult attorney to ensure everything done correctly first time. Contact 345 Divorce for professional document preparation and filing: 201-205-3201 or www.345divorce.com

Fee Type	Amount	When Paid	Notes
Complaint for Divorce Filing Fee	$300.00	When filing divorce complaint	Primary filing fee, required for all divorces, statewide uniform fee set by NJ Supreme Court
Case Management Fee	$50.00	With complaint filing	Funds court case management system, required in most divorce cases
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Fee	$25.00	With complaint filing	Supports court mediation programs, required fee
TOTAL INITIAL FILING	$375.00	Day 1	What most people pay to start divorce

Fee Type	Amount	When Applicable
Motion Filing Fee	$50.00 per motion	Each motion filed (pendente lite support, custody, discovery, etc.). Contested divorces often involve 3-10+ motions = $150-$500+
Cross-Complaint Fee	$300.00	If defendant files their own divorce complaint (not just answering yours)
Amended Complaint Fee	$35.00	If you need to amend complaint after filing
Certification Fee	$5.00 per copy	Certified copies of final judgment or other documents
Subpoena Fee	$1.50 per name	If issuing subpoenas for depositions or documents
Appeal Fee	$200.00	If appealing divorce judgment to Appellate Division

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