Jacobs Berger, LLC

We’re sending wishes for an easy and meaningful fast to those observing this Day of Atonement. Our thoughts today are also with the hostages in Israel who are still not at home with their families. We hope for peace and their return to their loved ones.

Today is World Mental Health Day, a day that’s highly relevant to family law issues. Dealing with divorce, custody negotiations, and financial uncertainties can be a full-on mental marathon—it can be easy to brush off your own well-being. But here’s the deal: your mental health can’t be an afterthought. If you’re worn out, isolated, or overwhelmed, know you’re not alone. We also know it’s hard to keep in touch with yourself amidst the chaos of, well, everything. So here’s your reminder: if you are dealing with… 💠 Persistent feelings of hopelessness 💠 Heightened anxiety 💠 Extreme fatigue or trouble sleeping 💠 Withdrawal from loved ones 💠 Difficulty focusing 💠 Changes in eating habits …remember that they aren’t just side effects of tough times. They may be a sign that your mental health needs some attention. If you’re unsure where to start, your attorney is a great resource. They should have a list of vetted mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services to help you get the support you need. (If you’re our client—you know this already!) Even when your situation feels overwhelming, asking for—and accepting—help when you need it can make all the difference.

When a partner dictates who you talk to, how you spend your money, or where you can go, it's not just about their control—it's about losing your freedom. This is the essence of coercive control. Coercive control made the news at the beginning of the year because, for the first time, New Jersey officially recognized it as a type of domestic violence with Bill A1475. Coercive control is notable because it often underpins other forms of abuse. While it may fly under the radar, it’s often understood as a precursor to more overt violence. In simpler terms, coercive control escalates. What starts as isolation from loved ones or financial restrictions can quickly lead to emotional abuse, threats, and physical violence. Because New Jersey now counts coercive control as a type of abuse, courts can consider patterns of control when issuing restraining orders. This closes a major gap in protection for those caught in what’s previously been a legal gray area. If this resonates with you—whether you’re experiencing it or recognizing it in someone else—there are resources to help. Call New Jersey’s 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-572-SAFE (7233).

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Domestic violence can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and psychological abuse. It can also cover actions like assault, stalking, and harassment. But domestic violence isn’t just defined by the act. The person committing the act is part of the equation. It’s a common misconception that you need to be married or in a long-term, live-in relationship with someone for actions to qualify as domestic violence. That is simply untrue. The abuse can be: ♦️ A current or former spouse ♦️ Someone you’ve dated ♦️ A co-parent ♦️ A current or former member of your household If you’re experiencing domestic violence, always prioritize your safety and contact the police first. Help us raise awareness by sharing this post.

It’s that time again—voting for New Jersey Family’s Best NJ Lawyers for Families! ✍️ Did your attorney help your child get necessary accommodations at school? ✍️ Did they make completing your will and trust a breeze? ✍️ Did you have an exceptional real estate lawyer when buying or selling your home? ✍️ Did someone guide you through a tough divorce with ease? If you’ve had a fabulous experience with an attorney, NJ Family wants to hear about it! Your votes help parents make informed choices for their families and loved ones. Let’s spotlight our fantastic colleagues and the incredible professional community in New Jersey. They work hard and genuinely deserve some recognition! Get your votes in here ➡️ https://bit.ly/3Rpginl

Wishing a sweet and prosperous Rosh Hashanah to those of our friends, family, colleagues and clients who are celebrating the Jewish New Year. May the season bring renewal, peace, and joy. Shanah Tovah from our family to yours!

As you consider whether or not to move forward with divorce, you’ll want to surround yourself with people who genuinely have your back—the ones who can help shelter you through the storm. Divorce often creates divides as friends choose sides or family members pepper you with questions about what happened. But once you have identified the people who will stand by you, you’ll feel stronger and more confident in your decisions. ☔️ Identify your core group of supporters—the ones who consistently show up for you. ☂️ Be prepared for changes in your relationships. Some friendships might shift or even come to an end during the divorce process. ☔️ Set clear boundaries with those who are more interested in gossip than offering support. Beware of those who stir the pot rather than fill your cup. ☂️ Considering finding a group where you can connect with others going through similar experiences. ☔️ Seek out professional help through therapy to prioritize your mental well-being. If you’re going through a high-conflict divorce or have other unique issues at play, consider finding one who has experience in those areas. What other sources of support have you benefited from? Share in the comments.

🎉 Happy Birthday, Olivia! We are so glad you joined the JB team this year, keeping us organized and handling projects like a champ from day one. You’re a force of nature—organized, driven, and always ahead of the game! Whether you're catching a yoga class, enjoying a flight at your favorite winery, or tackling a DIY project today, we hope your day is filled with all the things you love. 🧘♀️🍷

Another HSI Women’s Day wrapped up, and wow—what a great event! Over $28,000 raised for helping to support childcare needed for the Transitional Housing Program residents. We’re still enjoying the good vibes from earlier this week, feeling rejuvenated and grateful to be part of a community that’s dedicated to supporting one another. If you haven’t heard of @hsi_nj and the work they do, get acquainted! The impact they have is tangible and there are so many ways to get involved—whether it’s donating, volunteering, fundraising, or just spreading the word.

Money matters at every stage of a relationship. When you’re considering divorce, though, financial issues can suddenly take center stage. Whether you have a high-asset divorce, co-own a business, or are navigating child support obligations, understanding your money situation can bring a welcome sense of control during an uncertain time. This means taking stock of your entire financial picture: 💲 Assess your income. Look at your current and potential future earnings. Think about how you would maintain financial stability if those amounts ever change. 💲 Take stock of your assets. Consider the value of property, savings, and retirement accounts, and identify which assets are shared with your partner. 💲 Get familiar with your debt. Knowing the extent of your shared and individual debt can help you budget for your future. 💲 Get legal guidance. An experienced attorney can create a divorce strategy that helps you advocate for your financial well-being and security. No matter what decision you make about your marriage, knowing your personal and financial worth is the first step to building a fulfilling future.