New Jersey's Family Case Information Statement (CIS) is required in all contested family actions in which there is any issue as to custody, support, alimony or equitable distribution. Each party must file the statement within 20 days after the answer or appearance is filed. It may be required of both parties where one of the parties makes a motion. The CIS must be amended and up to date before trial. It is often used in post-judgment modification proceeding, and compared to the prior CIS.
The CIS is one of the most important documents in the case because it explains the financial details of the parties' marriage or union. It is needed whether the parties enter mediation, litigate, or are negotiating. The CIS provides the parties' incomes, expenses, assets and debts. Three most recent paystubs, income tax returns, W-2's, 1099's and K-1s, and retirement plan statements are attached to the form. Confidential information is redacted from the CIS.
The CIS allows you to set forth monthly lifestyle expenses in the categories of Shelter (Schedule A), Transportation (Schedule B) and Personal (Schedule C). There is a column for the joint standard of living the parties enjoyed while together, and the current lifestyle.It is extremely important not to "guestimate" figures for the CIS. If expenses fluctuate, use an average over 12 months. Use supporting documentation in arriving at monthly figures to make sure they are accurate. Consult bank and retirement statements, credit card statements, mortgage documents and other sources for accurate numbers, so you can explain how you arrived at the numbers if necessary.The CIS should be well-prepared, persuasive, and detailed. It should enhance your credibility and be consistent with your positions in the case. Problems with the CIS, such as inconsistencies, exaggerations, and omissions can hurt your case. A copy of the form may be found here.
Work closely with your attorney to make sure you list all the assets and debts that should be included. You can provide explanations on the form where necessary. Your attorney must make sure that the numbers "add up" and is otherwise consistent with your theory of the case.