Best Divorce Lawyers in New Jersey
CARRIE S. SCHULTZ
Divorce Lawyers
I am certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Matrimonial Law Attorney. I was admitted to the New Jersey and Florida state bars in May 2001 and to the New York state bar in July 2004; I attended the University of Miami School of Law. I have served as Co-Chair of the Young Lawyers Subcommittee of the New Jersey State Bar Association Family Law Section Executive Committee for the 2008-2009 term and am currently an active member of FLEC.
Additionally, I attended the American Bar Association Family Law Trial Advocacy Institute in 2005 and successfully completed the program. I have also been a lecturer, moderator, and panelist in matrimonial law-related seminars for the New Jersey Institute for Continuing Legal Education and the New Jersey Association for Justice. I was named to the New Jersey’s Top Young Lawyers list, sponsored by New Jersey Monthly, in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, and 2013-2017. Since 2015 through the present, I was named to the Super Lawyers List, a service of Thomson Reuters, according to New Jersey Monthly Magazine. In 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2020, and 2021 I was voted one of the Top Lawyer’s in Bergen County for Family Law by (201) Magazine. Avvo.com selected me as a superb attorney for many consecutive years; I was also selected in 2014-2017 as one of the Top 40 Under 40 New Jersey Family Law Attorneys by the National Trial Lawyers and nationally ranked Top 10 under 40 by the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys (see footnote). In 2016 and 2017, I was awarded membership to Lawyers of Distinction, which is only available to the top 10% of attorneys in the State of New Jersey; I was noted as one of the ten best female attorneys by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys; I was commended as a Renowned Attorney by the National League of Renowned Attorneys; and the firm, Schultz & Associates, LLC was accredited by the Better Business Bureau (see footnote) and named one of the fastest growing law firms by Law Firm 500 since 2017 and every consecutive year thereafter.
Areas Of Practice
- Divorce Law
- Child Custody
- Child Support
- Visitation and Parenting Time
- Alimony
- Equitable Distribution
- Removal/Relocation of Parent and Children
- Family Law
- Domestic Violence
- Child Abduction (The United States and International)
- Prenups and Mid-Marriage Agreements
- Civil Unions/Domestic Partnerships
- Post-Judgment Issues/Enforcement of Orders
- Appeals
Certified Legal Specialties
Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Matrimonial Law Attorney
Bar Admissions
- Florida, 2001
- New Jersey, 2001
- U.S. District Court District of New Jersey, 2001
- District of Columbia, 2004
- New York, 2004
Education
- J.D., University of Miami School of Law, Florida
- B.A., University of Florida
Peter F. Van Aulen
Divorce Lawyers
Peter Van Aulen’s practice focuses on divorce, family law and mediation. He is one of a few attorneys who is certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a matrimonial attorney. This designation is given by the Supreme Court to lawyers who have demonstrated high levels of education, experience, skill and knowledge in family law. Peter Van Aulen is an experienced matrimonial trial attorney. He has been a practicing divorce and family law attorney for over 25 years. Through the years he has handled a wide range of divorce cases from the simple to the highly complex. Also, Mr. Van Aulen is also a trained mediator. Mr. Van Aulen is dedicated to representing and fighting for his client’s interests. Mr. Van Aulen is a member of the Early Settlement Panel in Bergen County. Said panel is made up of experienced family law attorneys that listen to unresolved divorce cases and provide recommendations in order to produce settlements and avoid further litigation. As a panelist Peter Van Aulen has helped a number of attorneys and litigants settle their cases. He was also an adjunct professor. Peter Van Aulen has written or edited over three hundred articles on family law that can be found on this website. Further he has been a speaker at continuing legal education seminars for lawyers in areas of divorce and family law. He offers a free initial consultation to answer your questions.
J.D., New York Law School, 1990
New Jersey Institute for Continuing Legal Education
- Completed Family Mediation Training
- Qualified AOC Mediator
B.S., Ramapo College, 1987
- Double Major in Political and Business and Administration
- Commencement Speaker
- Recipient of Dean’s Award
- Student Government President
- UN Debate Team Won Best Justice
- Distinguished Alumni Award
U.S. District Court of New Jersey, 1991
U.S. Court of Appeals Third Circuit, 2008
Supreme Court of the United States, 2008
New Jersey Association for Justice
Family Law Section
Owner
- Law Offices of Peter Van Aulen, 1996-current
Adjunct Professor
- Ramapo College of New Jersey, 1993-2006
- Seton Hall University, 1997
Member of Bergen County Family Law Early Settlement Panel
Associate
- Williams & Puglisi 1991-1996
Galit Moskowitz
Divorce Lawyers
If you’ve made the difficult decision to divorce, you may be angry or feel betrayed. You may even feel like seeking revenge. As a child of a complicated divorce, I felt my parents’ pain and carried my own heartbreak and confusion. Ever since that experience, I knew that one day I would dedicate my life to helping families who also face this challenging circumstance. I determined that I would assist them in easing the divorce process and beginning a new life.
In order to accomplish my goals, I studied Administration of Justice and Psychology in my bachelor’s degree at Rutgers University to better understand the law and people’s behavior. I then received my Juris Doctorate law degree with an Excellence in Torts Award.
Galit Moskowitz, Esq. is proud to be certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Matrimonial Law Attorney, an accreditation earned by less than 1% of attorneys in the state of New Jersey. To qualify for matrimonial certification a New Jersey attorney must: be a member in good standing with the New Jersey state bar for five (5) years or more; fulfill ongoing continuing legal education requirements; demonstrate a substantial level of experience in matrimonial law and be favorably evaluated and recommended by other attorneys and Judges who can vouch for their work. The applications are scrutinized and must be approved by the board on attorney certification. Only after all these criteria are met is the attorney eligible to take the written examination in matrimonial law, which they must pass in order to be Certified as a Matrimonial Law Attorney. Supreme Court certification is a rare designation that sets attorneys apart as experts in their field. This shows clients that their attorney has mastered their area of practice, thus providing clients with comfort that they are in good hands by being represented by a certified attorney. Galit has met the rigorous standards for qualification and is honored to be recognized by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Certified Matrimonial Lawyer.
Melinda M. Previtera
Divorce Lawyers
Building great relationships with clients is the cornerstone to Melinda Previtera’s successful practice as a divorce attorney. Her passion and experience allow her to tackle the most complicated cases with the confidence and knowledge needed to obtain the best outcomes for her clients. A partner of Petrelli Previtera, Melinda acts as a mentor for the firm’s associates.
In addition to divorce, Melinda represents clients in all areas of family law, including child support, custody, legal separation, and domestic violence law.
While earning her law degree from Rutgers School of Law, Melinda received a certification in mediation. She also conducted research in child advocacy rights and completed a domestic violence clinic. She earned dual bachelor’s degrees, cum laude, from Dickinson College.
Melinda is admitted to practice in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Prior to moving to private practice, she served as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable James P. Savio in the family division. After working at Petrelli Law as an associate, Melinda joined the firm as a partner in 2017.
“Working in this intense legal field is a privilege which continues to spark my love for litigation, negotiation, and advocacy,” Melinda noted.
The International Women’s Leadership Association recognized Melinda as a “Woman of Outstanding Leadership” for her personal and professional achievements and for her dedication to supporting other women in reaching their goals. She was selected for inclusion in the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers’ Rising Stars list every year since 2016. Rising Stars is an honor given to attorneys younger than 40 or who have been in practice for 10 years or fewer. Melinda was also named to the Top 40 under 40 list by the Institute of Family Lawyers in 2016.
In addition to her legal background, Melinda is an executive committee member of the Justinian Society and an active member of both the Nicholas A. Ciprani Inn of Court and the Philadelphia Bar Association.
Steven M. Cytryn
Divorce Lawyers
Steven M. Cytryn is the Managing Member of The Law Office of Steven M. Cytryn, LLC, and primarily focuses his practice on divorce and family law matters.
Divorce and family law matters often present challenges that can impact many aspects of your life and your family’s life. Finding an attorney who provides you with individual attention, carefully explains the various aspects of your case and works with you to develop practical goals is an important part of achieving success.
Steven provides effective and diligent representation and advice to individuals and families, with a particular focus on the unique circumstances of each case. Complementing his experience with divorce and family law, Steven also handles estate matters, including estate planning, administration and probate, estate litigation and will contests, municipal court defense of traffic violations, DUIs and disorderly persons offenses and real estate transactions.
Steven’s passion for providing assistance to individuals and families began in college, where he mentored inner-city youth and taught a conflict-resolution program for students. After college, Steven taught fifth grade at a high-need, low-income school in Las Vegas, Nevada as part of Teach for America, during which he received a Master of Education.
During law school, Steven sought out public service internships with various legal services organizations, including the Center for Family Representation, the Legal Aid Society, and the Center for Appellate Litigation. Additionally, Steven had the honor of serving as Editor-in-Chief of the Cardozo Journal of Law and Gender, and also participated in the Intensive Trial Advocacy Program.
Together, these experiences allow Steven to provide dedicated, reliable and well-rounded legal representation to his clients.
Steven welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your case.
LAURA RUVOLO LIPP
Divorce Lawyers
Laura Ruvolo Lipp is certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as a Matrimonial Law Attorney. She is also a family law mediator and trained family law Collaborative Divorce attorney. She has dedicated her entire legal career to the practice of family and matrimonial law.
Prior to attending law school, Laura taught kindergarten and first grade. Although she did not want to stay in teaching long-term, she loved working with children and families and decided to redirect her career to help them in a different way.
As the mother of two children with an assortment of “invisible” disabilities, Laura has a deep understanding of the realities of raising kids with special needs, the complexities and stresses of their families’ lives, and the special considerations such cases require.
After practicing family law for several years in other firms, Laura formed The Law Offices of Laura Ruvolo Lipp, LLC in February 2012. She was later joined by her sister, Melissa Ruvolo and Family Focused Legal Solutions, LLC was officially formed in June 2013. Laura loves the team and “family” she and Melissa have formed to comprise today’s Family Focused Legal Solutions.
Although Laura takes her role as her client’s trusted advocate extremely seriously, she makes it clear to her clients that she will not take or support a position that will harm the child involved, whether that harm be physical, emotional or psychological. She sometimes has to tell her clients to “love your kids more than you hate each other” and reminds them that this principle should be evidenced in all their behaviors, decisions and words when co-parenting with their ex. Although some family situations are far too complex for effective co-parenting to be successful simply through compromise, maturity and improved communication, it is absolutely possible in most families if both parties are committed to the best interests of their child.
Rajeh A. Saadeh
Divorce Lawyers
Rajeh A. Saadeh, the founding attorney of The Law Office of Rajeh A. Saadeh, L.L.C., devotes a substantial portion of his litigation practice to matrimonial and family law and handles all issues pertaining to divorce and dissolution of civil unions and domestic partnerships, including child custody, visitation, parenting time, child support, equitable distribution of assets and debts, complex valuation of businesses and professional practices, stock options, executive benefits and compensation, alimony, palimony, arbitration, and mediation. He also handles domestic violence litigation, post-judgment modification and enforcement, and drafting of prenuptial, mid-marriage, reconciliation, and divorce settlement agreements. This knowledge and experience serves Rajeh well as an appointee of the Supreme Court of New Jersey’s Family Practice Committee, and he volunteers as an Early Settlement Panelist to opine to divorcing parties as to how they should settle their cases. Whether the case is leaning toward settlement or trial, Rajeh takes great pride and care in helping his clients make it through these difficult, personal, and life-changing matters.
In addition to family law, Rajeh has experience litigating criminal cases, civil matters involving both law and equity, including foreclosure and condemnation cases, municipal court matters involving traffic tickets, DUI/DWI charges, disorderly persons offenses, landlord tenant matters, including evictions, violations of municipal ordinances, and appeals before appellate courts. This breadth of experience enables Rajeh to provide comprehensive representation and advice to his clients when they need it most.
Aside from his substantial litigation practice, Rajeh represents clients in commercial and residential real estate transactions, and he has experience negotiating short sales, loan modifications, and forbearances with banks and mortgage holders and servicers. Related to his real estate practice, Rajeh helps property owners who desire to sell their property via short sale, are at risk of foreclosure, or who cannot make their mortgage payments. Rajeh also served as the attorney for the Board of Health in the Township of Springfield in Union County, New Jersey, and he was a member of the Planning Board in Springfield.
Rajeh volunteered with Wafa House, a support center predominantly dedicated to educating and assisting victims of domestic violence. Rajeh is/was a member of the American Bar Association, New Jersey State Bar Association, New York State Bar Association, Somerset County Bar Association, Middlesex County Bar Association, Hunterdon County Bar Association, and Union County Bar Association. Rajeh previously served as the Somerset County representative, Parliamentarian, Secretary, and Treasurer of the Young Lawyers Division of the New Jersey State Bar Association, and he presently serves as the Chair of the Young Lawyers Division. Rajeh is also a past President of the New Jersey Muslim Lawyers Association. As for the New Jersey State Bar Association, Rajeh is a member of the Diversity, Appellate Practice, and Equity Jurisprudence Committees. These affiliations and memberships help Rajeh forge the bonds and relationships to empower him to provide the most effective and efficient representation to his clients.
Christopher Rade Musulin
Divorce Lawyers
Attorney Christopher Musulin is unique in that he has practiced as both a New Jersey divorce and family law attorney as well as divorce and family law mediator for over thirty years. Due to his extensive experience in both litigation and mediation, he is able to skillfully settle divorce and family law matters with sophisticated negotiations using conflict resolution and, if it is necessitated, is able to aggressively advocate and litigate for his clients from a position of experience and excellence. After decades of representing clients with life-challenging matters coupled with his leadership qualities, Christopher Musulin is capable of handling any legal adversary and all types of New Jersey divorce and family law matters despite whatever complexities.
Christopher Musulin acquired his Juris Doctor in 1988. Christopher Musulin is admitted to practice by the Supreme Court of New Jersey, the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, the U.S. Supreme Court, and by the District of Columbia. Also, in 1995, he completed an intensive training seminar in mediation at the Seton Hall University Institute of Dispute Resolution and subsequently became an Accredited Professional Mediator by the NJ-APM. In 2006 the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, a select group of Matrimonial professionals who have demonstrated professionalism and excellence in the practice of law, admitted Christopher Musulin as a Fellow, and subsequently also certified him in 2010 as an Arbitrator for divorce and family law matters. The AAML sites that there are approximately 1650 fellows selected from all 50 states. In 2017, Mr. Musulin renewed his negotiation skillset by attending Harvard University Negotiation Seminar for Family Law Lawyers cosponsored by The Harvard Project on Negotiation and the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.
In terms of service to his profession, the list is too long to summarize and is better seen below on his resume. For years, Christopher Musulin has served on numerous Blue Ribbon and MESP panels; as a member of the NJSBA Family Law Executive Committee; as a liaison for Burlington County to NJSBA Family Law Executive Committee; and as either the Chair or Co-Chair of the Burlington County Bar Association Family Law Committee. Early in his career, he was the 1993 recipient of the Robert W. Criscuolo Award bestowed by the BCBA for contributions to the practice of family law and charitable activities. He believes service to his profession both promotes the standards of his profession and keeps him sharp so that he may better serve his clients. Mr. Musulin has lectured for NJ-ICLE, NJ-AAML, and the New Jersey State and Burlington County Bar Associations, and has authored numerous articles for the New Jersey Family Lawyer (a scholarly publication) and New Jersey Institute for Continuing Legal Education. He has helped organize many professional seminars over the years in a “Moderator” capacity.
Having the best divorce lawyer in New Jersey can provide several benefits when navigating the complexities of divorce proceedings in the state. Additionally, understanding the differences between divorce and separation is crucial. Let’s explore both topics:
Benefits of Having the Top Divorce Lawyer in New Jersey:
Knowledge of State Laws: Top divorce lawyers in New Jersey are well-versed in the state’s divorce laws and regulations. They can provide accurate legal advice and guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Strategic Planning: Skilled divorce lawyers can create a comprehensive strategy to protect your interests during divorce negotiations or litigation. They’ll help you navigate issues such as property division, alimony, child custody, and more.
Objective Advice: Emotions often run high during divorce proceedings. A competent lawyer can offer objective advice, helping you make informed decisions that are in your long-term best interests.
Negotiation Skills: Many divorce cases are resolved through negotiation. The best divorce lawyers are skilled negotiators who can advocate on your behalf to achieve fair settlements in areas like asset division and support.
Effective Representation: If your case goes to court, a knowledgeable lawyer will provide strong representation, presenting your case, cross-examining witnesses, and arguing for your desired outcomes.
Legal Documentation: Divorce involves substantial paperwork, from filing initial documents to drafting settlement agreements. A proficient lawyer ensures that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and submitted on time.
Child Custody and Support: For cases involving children, a skilled lawyer can help negotiate and establish child custody and support arrangements that prioritize the children’s best interests while protecting your rights as a parent.
Mediation and Settlement: Experienced lawyers can guide you through mediation and alternative dispute resolution processes, helping you find mutually agreeable solutions and potentially avoiding the need for lengthy court battles.
Asset Protection: If you have significant assets, a capable lawyer can help safeguard your financial interests by ensuring equitable property division under New Jersey law.
Minimized Stress: Divorce can be emotionally taxing. A qualified lawyer can handle legal complexities, allowing you to focus on your emotional well-being and transition.
Access to Resources: Established divorce lawyers often have access to a network of professionals, such as financial advisors, therapists, and counselors, who can provide additional support and expertise during your divorce.
Difference Between Divorce and Separation:
Divorce and separation are legal concepts with distinct meanings:
Divorce: Divorce is the legal termination of a marriage. When a divorce is finalized, the marriage is legally dissolved, and both parties are free to remarry. Divorce involves resolving issues such as property division, alimony, child custody, and child support.
Separation: Legal separation involves a formal arrangement where a married couple lives apart but remains legally married. During a legal separation, spouses may address issues such as property division, spousal support, and child custody, similar to divorce. However, they are not yet free to remarry.
It’s important to note that New Jersey does not have a formal legal separation process. Couples can create their own separation agreement to address various issues, but it’s not a formal legal status recognized by the state.
Ultimately, working with the best divorce lawyer in New Jersey ensures that you have expert guidance throughout the divorce process, helping you make well-informed decisions and navigate the legal intricacies of ending a marriage.