Everything We Know About RHONJ’s Melissa and Joe Gorga’s Lawsuit

RHONJ's Melissa and Joe Gorga
Photo Credit: Jim Spellman/Getty Images

Just when you thought the Garden State couldn’t get any messier, the Gorgas go and file a lawsuit that has everyone in Franklin Lakes talking. While the latest season of the Real Housewives of New Jersey has been put on pause, now Melissa Gorga and Joe Gorga are taking their real-life frustrations to the courtroom. 

Some fans are speculating that the stress of the lawsuit might finally push the couple to consider relocating. Or even stepping back from the show. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. If anything, the Gorgas are more likely to use this legal drama as fuel to stay relevant, especially with Melissa’s role on the show constantly under scrutiny. Yes, the Gorgas are suing their hometown, and no, this isn’t a Bravo storyline (yet). So what exactly are they fighting for, and how might it shake up the future of RHONJ? Let’s break it all down.

Why are Joe and Melissa Gorgas suing Franklin Lakes?

According to recently filed documents, Joe and Melissa are suing the borough of Franklin Lakes in Bergen County over the alleged failure to issue a filming permit in a timely manner. It turns out behind the filters and glammed-up tours lies a whole lot of red tape and (allegedly) unfair treatment. The couple claims the borough has been dragging its feet on issuing key permits. And essentially halting progress on their new show and causing major financial losses. It was just two months ago that rumors were swirling that Joe and Melissa would be starring on a new Bravo series, Wife Swap: The Real Housewives edition.

The legal complaint, which was filed on May 21, 2025, hinted that the couple might have missed out on filming. The documents were posted on X and show the Gorga’s attorney William J. Rush, issuing a plea to the judge. The plea read, “Please be advised that I represent the Plaintiffs, Giuseppe Gorga and Melissa Gorga, in the above-referenced matter. Plaintiffs are alleging that Defendants are wrongfully withholding and/or delaying the issuance of a Filming Permit in the Borough of Franklin Lakes. Plaintiffs are reality television performers and are under contract to film at their residence on June 6, 2025. In order for filming to take place on June 6, 2025, the application and all other permit requirements have to be filed with the Borough Clerk by May 30, 2025.”

How could the lawsuit affect RHONJ?

It’s been a comedy of errors. The Gorga’s lawyer added, “Therefore, it is respectfully requested that the Court hear this Order to Show Cause at the Court’s earliest convenience so if Plaintiffs are granted the requested relief they will have enough time to file the appropriate permit and corresponding documents with the Borough Clerk by May 30, 2025.” In legal speak, the Gorgas are accusing the town of basically stopping them from earning a paycheck.  In Jersey speak, they’re saying the town is playing games and not the fun, table-flipping kind.

The lawsuit adds another twist to the Real Housewives of New Jersey saga. It’s been almost two years since the last season finished filming. And there is no green light in sight for a new season. Recently, Kim DePaola spilled details to OK! Magazine. She told the outlet, “A few months ago, I said that three of the women from RHONJ were given promise letters to show the network was still interested in them.” Kim then added, “I can tell you, officially, they executed on one of those letters by giving Melissa a spot on Wife Swap.” Naturally, Melissa was probably thrilled Bravo wanted to continue a relationship.

The Gorgas want the spotlight back

 We all know RHONJ thrives on real-life drama, and this lawsuit could be a goldmine for Bravo producers. If cameras are rolling, expect to see this whole mess play out on the next season. Ultimately, this lawsuit is more significant than just the permits. For Melissa and Joe, it’s about proving they can build their dream reality TV life on their terms. Without the town getting in the way. Whether Franklin Lakes backs down remains to be seen. But one thing’s for sure, the Gorgas are ready to fight, designer heels and all.

The Real Housewives of New Jersey is available to stream on Peacock and Hayu in the UK and Ireland.

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