Clear Terms. Fewer Disputes. Stronger Outcomes.

A well-written Property Settlement Agreement (PSA) is the foundation of any successful divorce. It outlines exactly what each party is entitled to—property, support, custody, debt, and more—and turns verbal agreements into enforceable legal terms. At our firm, we help clients across New Jersey, from Hackensack to Teaneck, negotiate, draft, and finalize PSAs with clarity and precision.


Whether your divorce is contested or amicable, our attorneys ensure your interests are fully protected in every detail of your agreement.

What Is a Property Settlement Agreement in NJ Divorce?

A Property Settlement Agreement—sometimes called a marital settlement agreement—is a written contract that finalizes all the terms of your divorce. It can be created through direct negotiation, attorney involvement, or mediation. Once both parties sign and the court approves, it becomes a binding part of the final judgment of divorce.

A PSA typically includes terms for:

  • Division of marital property and debts
  • Spousal support (alimony)
  • Child support and custody arrangements
  • Health insurance and tax filing responsibilities
  • Life insurance to secure support
  • Other specific agreements unique to the couple

You don’t have to go to trial to reach a complete resolution. Many clients reach an agreement out of court—but it’s still critical to ensure the agreement is comprehensive and legally enforceable.

Why the Details in Your PSA Matter

We’ve seen it too many times—clients who come to us after signing vague or one-sided PSAs drafted without legal guidance. These documents can lead to confusion, costly litigation, and unenforceable promises.


Our team is known for being extremely thorough. We review every term to make sure nothing’s left out and nothing’s left open to interpretation. A strong PSA protects you from future disputes and gives you peace of mind that your rights and obligations are clearly defined.

What’s Typically Included in a Divorce Settlement Agreement

Your PSA is tailored to your situation, but most agreements cover the following key issues:

  • Equitable Distribution – How real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, and other marital property are divided. [Learn more on our Property Division page.]

  • Spousal Support – The amount, duration, and conditions of alimony (if any). [Visit our Alimony page for more.]

  • Child Support & Custody – A parenting plan that includes decision-making authority, parenting time, and support payments. [See our Child Support and Custody pages.]

  • Debt Allocation – Responsibility for credit cards, student loans, mortgages, and other marital debts.

  • Health & Life Insurance – Who will maintain coverage for children and whether life insurance will secure support obligations.


  • Tax Terms – Who will claim the children for tax purposes and how future tax filings will be handled.

Helping You Negotiate a Fair Agreement

You don’t have to go it alone—even in an amicable divorce. Whether you’re negotiating directly or attending mediation, we guide you through the process and make sure the final agreement protects your financial and parental rights.


If you and your spouse are pursuing an uncontested divorce, a detailed PSA is often the centerpiece of your case. [Learn more about uncontested divorce here.]


Our team also assists clients in reviewing agreements proposed by their spouse’s attorney to make sure the language is fair, enforceable, and doesn’t leave any loose ends.

Enforcement & Modifications After Divorce

Once your PSA is signed and filed with the court, it carries the full weight of a court order. If your ex-spouse violates any term—such as failing to pay support or disregarding the parenting plan—you have the right to file a post-judgment motion to enforce the agreement. [Visit our Post-Divorce Motions page to learn more.]


In some cases, PSAs can also be modified if major life changes occur.

Why Clients Across Bergen County Trust Us with Their Divorce Agreements

We’ve helped clients from Englewood, Ridgewood, Fort Lee, and beyond successfully resolve their divorces through clear, well-constructed PSAs. We know how local courts in Hackensack handle these documents, and we draw on that experience to ensure yours meets the legal standard—and protects your future.


Whether you're starting from scratch or reviewing a draft someone else prepared, we’ll give you honest, experienced guidance every step of the way.

FAQs About Property Settlement Agreements in New Jersey

  • Do we need a Property Settlement Agreement for an uncontested divorce?

    Yes. A PSA is typically required in an uncontested divorce because it outlines all the terms you've agreed on. Without it, the court may not finalize your divorce.

  • Can we write our own PSA and submit it to the court?

    You can, but it’s highly recommended that a lawyer draft or review it. PSAs are legally binding—if it’s incomplete, vague, or unfair, you may face serious problems down the line.

  • Is a PSA the same as a marital settlement agreement?

    Yes. The terms are often used interchangeably in New Jersey. Both refer to a written contract that finalizes divorce terms.

  • What if my ex isn’t following the PSA?

    You can file a motion to enforce the agreement. Courts in New Jersey can compel compliance or impose penalties if terms are being violated.

  • Can we change the terms after the divorce is finalized?

    Yes, but only if there's a valid reason and a formal modification is approved by the court. Examples include job loss or changes in custody arrangements.

Get Support Drafting or Reviewing Your Divorce Settlement

Ready to put your agreement in writing? Talk to a divorce settlement agreement attorney in New Jersey who will help you get it right the first time.