Divorce is a difficult and often emotional process. We help our clients navigate the divorce process, achieve positive outcomes through either amicable divorce, mediation or litigation, and prepare for the next chapter of their life.
Why you need a New York or Long Island divorce attorney
New York is a no-fault divorce state. This means that it is not necessary for either spouse to have engaged in any type of misconduct for the court to grant a divorce. Instead, it is only necessary to allege that there has been an irretrievable breakdown in the marital relationship.
Nonetheless, navigating the process requires the advice and counsel of an experienced divorce attorney to resolve key issues, such as:
Division and equitable distribution of marital property in a divorce
Couples typically acquire all types of property during the course of a marriage, such as home(s) and other real estate properties, bank accounts, investment accounts, retirement accounts, and businesses. Most assets are typically distributed equally, especially in long-term marriages. But equitable does not always mean equal. The specific factors of each case may have an impact on the outcome. When the parties are unable to reach a settlement, marital property will be divided equitably based on numerous factors.
Spousal maintenance
There are two types of spousal maintenance (formerly referred to as alimony): temporary and post-divorce. While the court relies on a formula to determine the amount and duration of spousal maintenance, there is a lot of discretion in determining these components – which makes it extremely beneficial to have the counsel of an experienced lawyer.
Child custody
Resolving child custody and parenting time can be one of the most contentious issues in a divorce, and we have handled highly contested custody trials. We know that nothing is more important to you than your relationship with your children. We will work with you to reach a custody agreement that is in your children’s best interests and that protects your parental rights.
Child support
All parents, married or not, have a legal obligation to provide financial support to their children. Generally, the non-custodial parent, or in cases of shared custody, the parent who earns more, will be required to pay child support to the other parent. The amount of support is based on a formula that considers the combined parental income and the number of children.
While we aim to reach negotiated settlements in all of our matters, we are always ready to represent our clients in contested divorces and family court hearings. When litigation is necessary, we will protect your rights and advocate for the best outcome for you and your family.
How much does divorce cost in New York?
The cost of divorce in New York can vary widely depending on many factors, making it difficult to provide an exact figure. On average, an uncontested divorce in New York typically costs between $1,000 to $3,000 in legal fees and court costs. This assumes that both spouses are in agreement on key issues such as property division, child custody, and support.
However, contested divorces, where couples cannot reach agreements and require legal representation, can be substantially more expensive. The legal fees, court filing fees, and other associated costs can escalate quickly. Complex cases involving high assets or significant disputes may cost tens of thousands of dollars or more.
Additionally, the choice of attorney or legal representation can influence costs. Some attorneys charge hourly rates, while others work on a flat fee basis.
It’s essential to consider potential expenses related to child custody evaluations, mediation, and court appearances when estimating divorce costs. Ultimately, the cost of divorce in New York varies widely depending on the unique circumstances of each case, making it crucial for individuals to consult with a qualified attorney to get a more accurate estimate based on their specific situation.
Is divorce mediation right for me?
Litigation is not the best approach for every couple. Divorce mediation is an alternative form of dispute resolution, in which the parties work with a neutral mediator to resolve the key issues in their divorce. Parties retain greater control over the process and the outcome in mediation, which often leads to more satisfactory results for both parties.
We have mediated and successfully settled hundreds of matters, including complicated financial and custody issues, without getting the court involved. We are frequently trusted by other attorneys to engage as consulting attorneys – this is for parties who are already working with a separate mediator.
Why choose us?
Divorce is a very difficult transition. We help our clients navigate the divorce process and prepare for the next chapter in their life with knowledge, compassion and urgency. We always focus on your priorities to guide you to an optimal outcome.
We approach every case as a set of parallel tracks. One of these tracks leads to an amicable divorce, where we negotiate a fair settlement. The other track ensures that we are always preparing for the possibility of a trial. This approach makes sure that you are protected, and it often helps to achieve better results in settling your case.
Contact our experienced New York and Long Island divorce attorneys
If you are considering a divorce – either contested or uncontested, contact us to learn more about your options and what you should expect from your attorney. We look forward to speaking with you.