Michael DiFalco

Michael DiFalco

Partner

Michael DiFalco is an experienced matrimonial trial attorney who has litigated numerous complex divorce and custody matters in New York courts. His substantial trial experience includes cases involving significant marital assets, business valuations, complex financial disputes, equitable distribution, spousal maintenance, and contested custody issues. Known for his thorough preparation, effective courtroom advocacy, and sound judgment, Michael has developed a reputation for handling challenging matrimonial matters with skill, professionalism, and a practical understanding of his clients’ objectives.

Michael’s practice focuses on contested matrimonial proceedings, particularly those involving closely held businesses, executive compensation, sophisticated financial arrangements, and substantial marital estates. He regularly works with forensic accountants, business valuation experts, and other professionals in preparing and presenting complex financial cases. His extensive experience with evidentiary hearings and trials provides him with a detailed understanding of the legal, financial, and strategic considerations that shape the outcome of matrimonial disputes.

Although litigation is a significant part of his practice, Michael recognizes that a negotiated resolution is often preferable to the uncertainty, expense, and disruption of trial. His courtroom experience informs his approach to settlement, allowing him to assess the strengths and weaknesses of a case, evaluate litigation risks, and negotiate from a position of strength. He is particularly adept at developing practical and creative agreements that address complicated financial arrangements and issues that may be difficult to resolve through a court-imposed determination.

Michael is respected within the matrimonial bar for his professionalism, credibility, and measured approach to even the most contentious disputes. He believes that vigorous advocacy and professional courtesy are not mutually exclusive, and that unnecessary hostility rarely advances a client’s interests. By focusing on the substantive issues rather than personal conflict, he is able to navigate difficult litigation constructively while maintaining productive relationships with opposing counsel and pursuing meaningful opportunities for settlement.

Michael has been active in the New York legal community throughout his career and currently serves as Co-Chair of the Ethics Committee of the New York State Bar Association’s Family Law Section. He previously served as Chair of the Association’s Young Lawyers Section and has held leadership positions within the Nassau County Bar Association. Michael also regularly lectures to fellow attorneys on matrimonial and family law issues, including complex financial matters, executive compensation in divorce, and issues of professional responsibility.

Michael takes a direct and personalized approach to representing clients, providing candid advice, realistic assessments of their options, and strategies tailored to their individual circumstances and goals. He approaches each case with the preparation necessary for trial while remaining open to opportunities for meaningful settlement. His objective is to protect his clients’ interests, minimize unnecessary conflict and expense, and achieve lasting resolutions that allow them to move forward.

In addition to his litigation practice, Michael regularly prepares and negotiates prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, including agreements involving substantial assets, business interests, and complex financial considerations.

His professional recognitions include the Nassau County Bar Association Matrimonial Committee’s Young Matrimonial Attorney of the Year award, selection to New York Super Lawyers Rising Stars, and recognition by Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America for Family Law.