Even the least complicated divorces are never easy. With one of the largest matrimonial departments in New Jersey and more than a half a century of experience, Einhorn Barbarito is with you…
Every step of the way.
A divorce is never just the dissolution of a marriage. It’s a life-changing event.
EACH DIVORCE PRESENTS UNIQUE ISSUES. The more complex the case, the more issues arise. Finding one lawyer who has expertise in these areas can be difficult, but Einhorn Barbarito can solve this problem for you: they offer an experienced team of lawyers covering the full spectrum of family law.
With 18 matrimonial attorneys in their matrimonial law department, this firm tackles cases from the most simple to the most complex. Each attorney in the department concentrates on a particular area. Fees are based on the particular lawyer’s level of experience. A divorcing client who comes in with a fairly straightforward matter enjoys the benefit of having an experienced matrimonial lawyer work on his or her case at a very reasonable rate. A client with a complicated case can take advantage of the knowledge and experience of a senior partner.
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“We offer our clients a team approach,” says Patricia Barbarito, a partner in the matrimonial department at Einhorn. “Teams are assigned to complex matters to ensure that clients’ phone calls are returned promptly, that routine work is done at an associate’s billing rate, and that the strategy and major decisions are undertaken by a more experienced lawyer.”
Barbarito, a certified matrimonial lawyer and former chair of the Family Law Section of the New Jersey State Bar Association, is the 2004 recipient of the Tischler Award, presented by the New Jersey State Bar Association for lifetime contributions to the advancement of family law. She has been with the firm for the last 33 years.
“Our practice is general, but we are not general practitioners,” says Barbarito. “A matrimonial case often involves other legal issues that can be addressed by an attorney in one of our departments — such as taxation/trusts & estates, business/commercial, real estate, criminal, or personal injury.”
The firm’s philosophy is unique in that each case is analyzed and an action plan is formulated, so that the case doesn’t develop a “life of its own.” “Our experience and training enable us to approach issues in a very clear and organized fashion,” says Barbarito.
The matrimonial attorneys in this firm know that divorce is a major life transition, and they strive to make the process as straightforward and painless as possible for each of their clients. The firm’s policy is to attempt to resolve cases by negotiation first, but they are not reluctant to defend their clients’ rights in court. “We always make every effort to settle a case, but we are trained advocates and are prepared to litigate a case if need be,” says Barbarito.
The law firm has been providing clients with high-quality, cost-effective legal services since 1961. Located in Denville, the hub of Morris County, this full-service law firm employs attorneys with a wide range of experience. Their team of experienced lawyers seeks to provide the understanding, personal involvement, and objectivity necessary to address their clients’ unique legal issues.
At Einhorn Barbarito, our attorneys work together to help their clients every step of the way.
THE MATRIMONIAL LAW TEAM
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Pat M. Barbarito is Co-Managing Partner and Chair of the Einhorn Barbarito Board of Directors. Thirty-nine years ago, Pat started her law career at Einhorn, Barbarito, Frost & Botwinick when it only had three attorneys. Since that time, she has been integral in developing the firm into the powerhouse it is today. From the start, Pat’s passion and compassion set her apart from other lawyers and are the reasons why she is among the most sought after family law attorneys in the state. A highly regarded trial lawyer known for her integrity and commitment to excellence, Pat has a formidable reputation in every courtroom in New Jersey. Her hallmark is taking the time to gain a deep understanding of her clients’ situations so that she can swiftly and effectively develop a strategy, champion their cause, and achieve a successful outcome. Pat balances an unwavering determination to succeed on behalf of her clients with a positive, empathetic style that fosters loyalty and trust. She mentors, advocates, nurtures and gives, all while serving as one of New Jersey’s most talented and distinguished attorneys.
Throughout her career, Pat has been recognized as a major contributor to the field of matrimonial law. The well-being of her clients and the success of her colleagues and her dedication extends into the community and Bar. She has advocated on behalf of a range of clients, including but not limited to high-level executives, parents seeking custody, and clients involved in domestic violence situations. A compelling speaker, Pat lectures extensively and conducts media interviews on all aspects of family law. She is certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Matrimonial Law Attorney. She sits on the New Jersey State Bar Association Judicial and Prosecutorial Appointment Committee (JPAC) as the Morris County representative. Under a compact established with the Governor, JPAC confidentially reviews the qualifications of candidates for the nominated judicial and prosecutorial positions and advises the Governor in its position regarding the candidate’s fitness to serve in the nominated position. In 2004, Pat received the Saul A. Tischler Award from the New Jersey State Bar Association Family, Law Section for outstanding contributions and dedication to the advancement of the practice of family law in New Jersey. As a certified arbitrator, Ms. Barbarito is able to decide disputes complex in nature. |
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Since joining the Einhorn Barbarito in 1985, Bonnie Frost has practiced in the family law arena, handling various cases such as divorce, custody, domestic violence, and paternity issues. An approved Supreme Court of New Jersey family law mediator, she handles both court appointed and private mediation. She is frequently called upon to handle family law and appellate arbitrations and to be an expert witness.
Bonnie authored the Women’s Legal Rights Booklets, along with other numerous works in family law, including co-authoring the State Bar, Family Law Section’s Position Paper on Matrimonial Law in 1997. In addition to serving as a member of the State Bar Family Law Executive Committee since 1994, she is also a Certified Matrimonial Law Attorney and a Fellow of The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Bonnie has also been involved in the ethics system in New Jersey since 1991 and recently stepped down as Chair of the Disciplinary Review Board, which is the intermediate appellate body for the state wide attorney disciplinary system. Bonnie is the 2012 Recipient of the Saul Tischler Award, bestowed upon her by the New Jersey State Bar Association Family Law Section. The award recognizes attorneys that have made substantial lifetime achievements and contributions to family law. Most recently, she was selected by the New Jersey State Bar Association as the 2016 Clapp Excellence in CLE Award winner for her work in organizing and presenting seminars for the New Jersey Institute of Continuing Legal Education (NJICLE) for over 20 years. |
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Stephen Haller joined Einhorn Barbarito in early 2004 and exclusively handles family law matters. His legal career began in 1977 as a law clerk for a Family Court judge. Throughout Stephen’s 41+ year career, he has represented people from all walks of life, including police officers, prominent professionals, business owners (and their spouses), attorneys, and politicians. Stephen understands that family law practice requires knowledge of more than just law, these cases often involve interaction with forensic experts in the areas of mental health, asset valuation and celebrity goodwill. Successful resolution of many cases requires an understanding of trial tactics and strategy as well as the ability and willingness to actually go to trial if that is required to achieve the reasonable goals of the client.
Stephen has been involved in a number of important cases; a custody matter litigated by Stephen is among the leading cases in New Jersey jurisprudence. He took over the trial in the matter of Chen v. Heller in the middle of trial testimony and later convinced the higher court to reverse the trial court’s denial of a mother’s right to relocate her children and herself from New Jersey to Texas. The novel issue in that case was the burden of proof in a relocation case prior to an initial custody award and his innovative use of what then was the relatively new concept of “virtual visitation.” Although the technology was then in its infancy, his argument in favor of the use of computer video technology to augment face-to-face visits and phone contact between a non-custodial parent and a child was at the cutting edge. Stephen represented former New Jersey Governor James McGreevey in the trial of his custody and divorce case in 2008. Again taking over the case in the middle of its pendency, he succeeded in overcoming Dina Matos’ widely publicized personal and financial demands in a verdict universally viewed as favorable to the former governor. The trial highlighted substantial issues involving joint custody, parenting time, celebrity goodwill valuation and employment evaluation. Intense daily television, radio and print coverage accompanied the entire hearing, giving the case wide public exposure. Since then, Stephen is sought out for comment on relevant national family law cases by print media and by CNN and FOX networks. Stephen was New Jersey counsel to entertainer Christopher Rock in his divorce. That matter involved substantial issues of personal/celebrity goodwill, among other things, and was settled without a public trial. Stephen represents business owners and professionals (and their spouses) in matrimonial matters as well. Whether the issue involves valuation and division of a medical or law practice, automobile dealership, manufacturing enterprise or retail establishment, he has the depth and breadth of knowledge to serve his clients, complemented by the appropriate use of all the varied legal resources at Einhorn Barbarito.
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Thomas Snyder devotes his practice exclusive to family law matters including alimony, child support, custody, parenting time, grandparents’ visitation, equitable distribution and domestic violence cases.
Over the course of his career he has been involved in, and litigated, many landmark cases in the state of New Jersey. Some of the notable cases include an international custody case involving the return of a child from Nigeria and the trial level proceedings of a case in New Jersey Family law in which the court said that the income used to form the basis of the valuation of a closely held business can also be used to calculate alimony depending on the circumstances of the case. Thomas is an active member of the New Jersey State Bar Association. He is a member and past chair of the Family Law Executive Committee for the Family Law Section. He has served on various committees associated with the New Jersey Bar Association and the Family Law Section of the State Bar including serving as a member of the Nominating Committee for the New Jersey State Bar Association for the 2011 Term. He has also served as the legislative chairperson for the Family Law Section and in that position advocated on behalf of the Bar Association with respect to various Bills pending before the New Jersey State Legislators. These bills included the State Bar’s efforts to effectuate the implementation of Irreconcilable Differences as a cause of action for divorce in New Jersey. He has provided testimony on behalf of the New Jersey State Bar Association to both the Senate and Assembly Judiciary Committees in regard to the New Jersey Marriage Equality Act. He has testified before State Legislators on multiple occasions in connection with the proposed modifications to the New Jersey’s Adoption Statute. He has also testified before the New Jersey Assembly Judiciary Committee in connection with modifications to New Jersey’s Alimony Statute. As a member of the State Bar, he has also contributed to two of New Jersey State Bar Association’s amicus curiae briefs. The first was for a milestone New Jersey case addressing the issue of same sex couples’ rights to a legally recognized marriage. The other was for a case which addressed whether or not income from a discretionary trust can be counted for the purpose of alimony and child support. He is the recipient of the New Jersey State Bar Associations Annual Distinguished Legislative Service Award for 2006. Thomas has litigated the following reported cases: Anyanwu v, Anyanwu and Steneken v. Steneken trial level — unreported. He has currently pending before the New Jersey Supreme Court, a case which has been granted Certification in the matter of D.W. v. R.W. v R.W. v. D.B and M.W. which is a case addressing the issue of legal standing to be utilized in a disputed paternity case involving an adult emancipated child, and a presumed father’s claim for child support reimbursement from an alleged biological father. Thomas has been interviewed on radio and television regarding emerging New Jersey Family Law Issues, including appearing on NJN’s talk show, “Due Process,” as well as providing debate and commentary on radio and talk shows WNYC and WWRL-1600 AM, New York radio. Thomas lectures frequently on family law matters on behalf of the New Jersey State Bar Association, the New Jersey State Bar Foundation, and the New Jersey Institute of Continuing Legal Education (NJICLE). He has been recognized by Digital Press International, who named him one of the “Leading Divorce Attorneys, Age 45 and Under of Northern New Jersey” for 2004-2005. He was previously a Law Clerk for the Honorable Peter B. Cooper in Essex County, NJ. Mr. Snyder has participated in the Central Jersey Family Law Inns of Court. He is a member of the Morris County and Union County Bar Associations. He is a graduate of the National Institute of Trial Advocacy program and a former member and barrister of the Central New Jersey Inns of Court. |
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Jennifer Fortunato is an experienced litigator who focuses her practice on all aspects of Family Law and Education Law with an emphasis on Special Education Law.
Jennifer began her legal career handing Family Law cases and has been practicing in the area of Family Law for over 25 years. Many people facing family law issues want an attorney who is both compassionate and aggressive, a critical combination that is hard to find – unless they engage with Jennifer Fortunato. Jennifer’s empathetic listening style and fact-based approach facilitates a trusting relationship with her clients, many of whom are experiencing one of the most upsetting and complicated times in their lives. Practical and direct, she helps her clients understand the best and worst-case scenarios and all possibilities in between. Jennifer easily conveys this information in layman’s terms so that her clients can determine the best course of action. Jennifer is a certified matrimonial trial attorney fluent in every aspect of family law, including divorce, separation, domestic violence, child support and custody, palimony, adoption, same-sex marriage, civil unions and other domestic matters. She is well-versed in the complex area of children’s legal issues and is adept at providing sensitive and caring counsel. Her entire career has been devoted exclusively to family law and she extends her involvement beyond the courtroom. Jennifer teaches young adults about the law and provides volunteer counsel to children with special needs. Currently, Jennifer serves on the New Jersey State Bar Association Family Law Executive Committee, as well as on the District Ethics Committee, a position she was appointed to by the New Jersey Supreme Court in 2016 for a four-year term. In the area of Education Law, Jennifer advocates for children with special needs so that they can obtain the education they need and have a right to receive. Jennifer was drawn to Special Education Law beginning in 2004 due to personal circumstances involving her own children, one who is deaf and the other who has a learning disability. Out of necessity, Jennifer developed the interest and in-depth knowledge of Special Education Law and the rights of special needs children and their families. Jennifer’s advocacy on behalf of children and their families includes counseling and representation on issues arising under the Individuals with Disability ACT (IDEA), Section 504 and other State statutes. Jennifer participates in Individual Education Plan (IEP) meetings and meetings with Child Study Teams. Jennifer also represents clients in enforcing and revising IEPs, obtaining Section 504 Plans, settlement negotiations and mediation with school districts, due process hearings and litigation. Jennifer also handles cases where children are threatened with disciplinary actions or are the target of bullying or harassment. With the right strategies, most education disputes can be resolved through mediation or conferences, but if needed, Jennifer will vigorously fight for the rights of your child through litigation. |
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Cimmerian Morgan is a Partner in the Einhorn Barbarito family law department. He joined the firm in 2006 after serving as a Law Clerk to the Honorable Julie M. Marino, J.S.C. in the Somerset County Superior Court. Over his 12-year career, Cimmerian has successfully litigated matrimonial cases with vast ranges of complexity. He is a compassionate listener who cares about his clients’ personal needs. His ability to empathetically understand his clients’ personal and family goals is a major reason they rely on him for advice and representation. Cimmerian provides his clients with realistic expectations for the outcome of their case and personally stays in constant communication, which fosters a synergistic attorney-client relationship and helps clients remain confident about their case strategy and direction.
Matrimonial litigation is a fluid process. The ability to adapt and reevaluate is critical, and Cimmerian’s approach to developing case strategy is more holistic than most. He derives great satisfaction from assisting his clients in resolving some of the most distinctly sensitive and important issues in their lives, such as custody of their children, alimony, child support, and equitable distribution of marital assets and liabilities. Cimmerian has extensive experience negotiating and litigating cases involving the valuation of business interests which must be valued and potentially included within equitable distribution of marital assets. This unique and often complicated area of the law requires a skill set and familiarity with the methodology of business valuations which few matrimonial attorneys possess. He has spent many years developing a command of applicable business valuation principles and works collaboratively with forensic accountants to achieve the best possible result for his clients. The positive relationships Cimmerian has built with other attorneys and experts help him effectively negotiate and resolve all types of challenging family law issues. In the event that a case cannot be resolved through negotiation, he can bring to bear extensive trial experience and navigate the complicated legal process to obtain a fair outcome for his clients. Cimmerian takes whichever path is necessary to achieve the best possible outcome for his clients. |
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Matheu D. Nunn has a passion for the law and has a diverse background which serves his clients well.
He joined Einhorn Barbarito in December 2011 as an associate in the Matrimonial and Criminal Law Departments. He came to the firm after serving as an assistant prosecutor for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. Matheu currently serves as the prosecutor for Morris Township and has filled in as a prosecutor in Boonton, Boonton Township, and Parsippany. His background as a prosecutor provides him with knowledge in criminal and municipal law as well as working with DYFS and domestic violence cases. Matheu received his Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Delaware and then his JD from Rutgers School of Law-Camden, where he earned “with honors” distinction and was an editor of the Law Review. During law school, he worked in the legal department of ING Direct and completed externships for the Honorable Joseph A. Falcone, JSC, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. Following law school, he completed two clerkships. The first for the Honorable B. Theodore Bozonelis, the Assignment Judge for Morris County; the second for the Honorable Jack M. Sabatino, a judge at the Appellate Division of New Jersey. At the conclusion of that clerkship, in September 2009, Matheu joined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, where he worked as an assistant prosecutor in the Appellate Unit and Major Crime Units before joining the firm. A prolific public speaker, Matheu has given presentations on family law and privacy, cyber-bullying, the law of interrogation, search and seizure and appellate law to name a few. He is a member of The 200 Club of Morris County, a local philanthropic organization which focuses its efforts on providing financial support to the families of fallen police officers and firefighters. He also offers his time as a “volunteer judge” for moot court competitions at Rutgers School of Law and Morris County high schools. |
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Jennie L. Osborne, Esq. joined the firm in 2004 and is a member of the firm’s Matrimonial Law Department. She began her private practice career in Passaic County.
Jennie L. Osborne’s practice is devoted solely to family law, where she represents clients in all matters pertaining to family disputes, including divorce, alimony, child support, child custody, and domestic violence. Jennie’s approach with every client is to listen so she can understand the overall context of their legal issue. Gaining a sense of the broader family background, Jennie develops strategies that take into account all factors. She has a knack for developing open, trusting relationships with her clients. Given the emotionally charged aspects of many family law cases, especially when children are involved, Jennie works to create a solid outcome that can withstand future challenges and changes. One of Jennie’s notable roles was serving as associate trial counsel to former New Jersey Governor James McGreevey in his divorce and custody litigation. The high-profile trial highlighted substantial issues involving joint custody, parenting time, celebrity goodwill valuation and employment evaluation. The entire case was intensely covered by national and local television, radio and print coverage. She gained invaluable experience in dealing with a highly volatile case where much of the legal action was scrutinized and evaluated in the court of public opinion. |
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James M. DeStefano is Counsel at Einhorn, Harris, and serves clients in the firm’s matrimonial and family law department. James joined the firm in September 2011 after serving as law clerk to the Honorable Robert J. Gilson (Sussex County Superior Court, Chancery Division, Family Part). Not only is James well versed in the tenants of matrimonial law, but he is also committed to staying abreast of the ever-evolving changes and developments in the law. He utilizes this perspective and up-to-the-minute insight into family law best practices to his clients’ advantage.
James places great emphasis on the interpersonal relationships he cultivates with his clients. For every case, he takes the necessary time to learn and understand the nuances, synthesize the facts with the law and develop a sound legal strategy. He holds himself accountable for knowing as much as possible about his clients’ personal stories so that he can best represent their interests in the negotiation and litigation process. Family law issues can be extremely challenging for clients, and James prides himself on being fully accessible and available to engage in discussion with his clients whenever needed. His commitment to doing so earns him their trust and confidence and helps them achieve their goals as efficiently as possible. With a direct yet empathetic manner, James manages his clients’ expectations while zealously advocating on their behalf. |
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Kristi L. Terranova joined Einhorn Barbarito in September 2015 as an Associate with the Matrimonial and Family Law Departments.
Throughout her career, Kristi L. Terranova has focused on matrimonial and family law. She has both trial court and appellate experience representing clients in a broad range of issues including, but not limited to all issues related to matrimonial litigation, relocation, spousal and child support, college contribution, domestic violence issues, emancipation, grandparent’s rights, pre and post-nuptial agreements, asset valuation and protection and post-judgment modifications to custody and support. She is well versed in all aspects of the sector and stays current with the latest trends and developments. Kristi translates knowledge into insights and strategies tailored to the specific case and needs of her clients. Given the often painful and grueling aspects of many family law cases, Kristi is privileged to assist clients through a difficult time in their lives and to assist them in beginning a new chapter in the most efficient, fair and just manner possible. Kristi has several leadership roles within the New Jersey legal community. She was appointed to the District Fee Arbitration Committee of the Office of Attorney Ethics for the Supreme Court of New Jersey. She is an Associate Editor for the New Jersey Family Lawyer Magazine. Kristi extends the commitment she gives her clients to others in the community. She has co-chaired through Partners for Women and Justice the “Break the Cycle” event at Soul Cycle, which raises awareness and funds for the prevention of and assistance for victims of domestic violence. |
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Matthew Coleman joined Einhorn Barbarito in its Matrimonial and Family Law department in April 2013. He focuses on a wide variety of issues including divorce, child custody, parenting time, child support and alimony. Matthew’s practice is also concentrated on the niche area of family law’s impact and interaction with both LGBTQ individuals and same-sex couples.
Matthew began his career as a law clerk for the Honorable Maureen B. Mantineo, P.J.F.P – Presiding Judge for the Family Part court in Hudson County. During his tenure, he handled divorce, custody and visitation disputes, child support cases, domestic violence and other related family matters. Matthew understands that people often need the assistance of family law attorneys during highly emotional or difficult times in their lives. He has the patience and knowledge to guide clients efficiently through the court process, and the skills and experience to advocate for his clients at every stage. Matthew is active in a variety of leadership roles in the legal community. He is a two-year term appointee to the New Jersey Supreme Court District Ethics Committee and is currently serving as a Trustee of the LGBT Rights Section of the New Jersey State Bar Association. |
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Dorothy Kenney joined Einhorn Barbarito in 2013, devoting her practice exclusively to family and matrimonial law. Dorothy represents both men and women in all aspects of family related issues. She has experience handling and litigating a variety of matters including all aspects of divorce, unique complex custody issues, child support, alimony, property division, adoption, and domestic violence matters. Dorothy takes a personalized approach to understanding the unique needs of every client to navigate the legal aspect and personal challenges of family court litigation to bring about the best possible resolution for each client.
Dorothy previously served as a judicial intern for the Honorable Tonianne J. Bongiovanni, United States District Magistrate Judge, District of New Jersey and also served as law clerk to the Honorable Ernest M. Caposela, Presiding Judge Family Part, Passaic County. Dorothy also serves as a Trustee for the Morris County Bar Association. |
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Jessie M. Mills is an Associate with Einhorn Barbarito in the family law department. She focuses on all aspects of matrimonial law, including divorce, prenuptials, domestic violence, child custody, parenting time, and alimony. Upon graduating from law school, Jessie had the honor of clerking for the Honorable Nancy Sivilli, J.S.C., in Essex County Superior Court, Family Part. Following her clerkship, she began practicing as a family law attorney.
While attending law school, Jessie represented clients as a student attorney through Seton Hall University School of Law’s Family Law Clinic, which is offered by the school’s Center for Social Justice. While obtaining her undergraduate degree, she interned for several years at a prestigious family law firm, gaining valuable experience in her current practice area. |
KRISTI L. TERRANOVA Counsel
For more information or to arrange a consultation,
contact Patricia Barbarito at:
165 East Main Street, (Route 53) P.O. Box 3010, Denville, NJ 07834-3010
Phone: (973) 627-7300
Fax: (973) 627-0869
[email protected]
www.einhornlawyers.com
Patricia Barbarito has written the following:
- “My husband and I have been living together during our separation because we cannot sell our house nor afford two properties. How can we make our situation better?”
- “Should I tell my lawyer the whole truth?”
- “Are you entitled to alimony based on the years married?”
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