The Purpose of the Matrimonial Early Settlement Panel (MESP) in New Jersey

Navigating the complexities of divorce can be an emotionally and financially draining process. In New Jersey, the Matrimonial Early Settlement Panel (MESP) is a vital tool designed to streamline the divorce process and help couples reach an amicable settlement more efficiently. Understanding the purpose and benefits of the MESP can provide clarity and reassurance during this challenging time.

What is the Matrimonial Early Settlement Panel (MESP)?

The MESP is a mandatory program in New Jersey for divorcing couples with contested issues. It involves a panel of experienced family law attorneys who volunteer their time to review the case and provide settlement recommendations. The panel typically consists of two attorneys who regularly practice in the county the case is being heard.

The Purpose of MESP

The primary objective of the MESP is to facilitate the resolution of divorce-related disputes without the need for prolonged litigation. Here are the key purposes of the MESP:

Encouraging Settlement:

The MESP aims to encourage divorcing couples to settle their disputes out of court. By providing an impartial evaluation of the case, the panel helps both parties understand the likely outcomes if they proceed to trial. This understanding often motivates parties to negotiate and settle.

Reducing Court Congestion:

The court system can become overwhelmed with divorce cases, leading to long delays and increased legal costs. The MESP helps reduce this burden by resolving disputes more quickly, freeing up judicial resources for cases that truly require a trial.

Saving Time and Money:

Litigation is costly and time-consuming. By reaching a settlement through the MESP, couples can save significant amounts of money on attorney fees, court costs, and other expenses associated with a prolonged legal battle. Additionally, the process is faster, allowing both parties to move forward with their lives sooner.

Providing Expert Guidance:

The panelists are seasoned family law attorneys who offer valuable insights and recommendations based on their extensive experience. Their guidance helps parties navigate complex legal issues, such as property division, alimony, and other financial disputes, ensuring a fair and equitable resolution. Generally, the MESP will not address issues related to custody and parenting time.

Reducing Emotional Stress:

Divorce is inherently stressful, especially when contentious issues are involved. The MESP provides a structured environment where parties can discuss their differences calmly and constructively. Reaching a settlement through this process can reduce the emotional toll on both parties.

How Does the MESP Process Work?

The MESP process is straightforward and involves the following steps:

Preparation and Submission of Documents:

Both parties and their attorneys prepare and submit detailed memorandum, case information statements, financial documents, and other relevant materials to the panel in advance. This preparation ensures the panelists have a comprehensive understanding of the case. These submissions are generally due five days prior to the proceeding.

Panel Hearing:

On the scheduled date, both parties and their attorneys appear before the panel. The attorneys present their arguments, summarizing the key issues and positions. The panelists may ask questions to clarify any points. Depending on the county, some panels occur remotely via videoconference, while other venues are holding the panels in person.

Panel Recommendations:

After reviewing the case and hearing the arguments, the panelists confer privately to discuss their recommendations. They then present their suggested settlement terms to the parties and their attorneys.

Settlement Discussions:

Following the panel’s recommendations, the parties and their attorneys have an opportunity to discuss the proposed terms and negotiate a settlement. Many cases settle at this stage, guided by the panel’s impartial advice.

Further Proceedings:

If a settlement is reached, the terms are put into writing and submitted to the court for approval. If no settlement is achieved, the case proceeds to additional case management conferences, economic mediation, and eventually a trial. However, the insights gained during the MESP often help narrow the issues and facilitate a resolution before the trial date.

Conclusion

The Matrimonial Early Settlement Panel (MESP) is a cornerstone of New Jersey’s approach to resolving divorce disputes. By encouraging settlement, reducing court congestion, saving time and money, providing expert guidance, and reducing emotional stress, the MESP plays a crucial role in helping couples navigate the difficult process of divorce. Understanding the purpose and benefits of the MESP can empower divorcing couples to approach the process with greater confidence and a clearer sense of direction. If you are facing a divorce in New Jersey, consider how the MESP might assist you in achieving a fair and amicable resolution.

About the Author

Brian Budic is Co-Chair of the firm’s Divorce and Family Law Practice Group He has extensive experience representing clients in all aspects of family law in New Jersey, including complex issues of divorce, equitable distribution, child custody, parenting time, child support, alimony, domestic violence, and prenuptial agreements. Brian knows the stress and emotional toll that his family law clients experience before, during, and after the divorce process. As a result, he treats every client with the empathy, responsiveness, and respect that they deserve.