A divorce decree is a legal document signed by the judge that officially terminates the marriage. The divorce decree typically includes the judge’s ruling on all matters related to the marriage and any minor children—including division of marital or community property, payment of marital or community debts, spousal support, child custody, child visitation, child support, any obligation to provide health insurance for minor children, and the payment of extracurricular expenses for minor children.

These determinations or rulings set forth in the divorce decree become legally enforceable obligations when the judge signs the divorce decree—and may be enforced by further legal action in the court if one or both of the former spouses fail to comply with the terms of the divorce decree.

In New Jersey, a divorce decree is the final order that concludes the divorce process and is issued by a judge. This document formalizes the end of the marriage and outlines all the terms of the divorce, including but not limited to the division of property and debts, alimony (spousal support), and if applicable, child custody, parenting time (visitation), child support, and healthcare provisions for the children. The terms specified in the divorce decree are based on New Jersey state statutes, case law, and the specific circumstances of the divorce case. Once the judge signs the divorce decree, the terms are legally binding and enforceable. If either party fails to comply with the obligations set forth in the decree, the other party may return to court to seek enforcement, which can result in various legal consequences, including but not limited to contempt proceedings, garnishment of wages, or other court-ordered remedies.