When the going gets tough
Marriages do not always work out. Divorce can get very complicated, which is why it is important to have a divorce attorney when moving forward with one.
Guiding clients through the process of divorce and annulment is part of this practice. The length of time and level of involvement varies case by case, because there are different assets and different emotions for each couple. There is a great deal to factor in — family, assets, funds, the length of the marriage, possessions held before the marriage, and anything related to inheritance. Where there are substantial assets to be divided, and especially where there are children, it is important to have a divorce lawyer involved.
Annulment is not to be confused with divorce and requires a different set of procedures and filings.
Some of the legal aspects of divorce handled here include
- Marriage, civil unions, and domestic partnerships
- Adoption and surrogacy
- Child abuse and child abduction
- The termination of a relationship and ancillary matters, including divorce, annulment, property settlements, alimony, child custody and visitation, child support and maintenance awards
- Juvenile adjudication
- Paternity testing and paternity fraud
Filing in New York City
Divorce is filed in the Supreme Court of the county where either spouse resides — Kings for Brooklyn, Richmond for Staten Island, New York County for Manhattan, and so on. It is not filed in Family Court.
Where more than one county would accept the filing, the choice is worth making deliberately rather than by default, because calendars and practice differ between them.
New York City Divorce Lawyer — common questions
Which county do I file my divorce in?
The Supreme Court of a county where either spouse resides — Kings for Brooklyn, Richmond for Staten Island, New York County for Manhattan, Queens and Bronx for those boroughs. Where more than one county qualifies, the choice is worth making deliberately.
Is Family Court an alternative to Supreme Court?
Not for the divorce itself. Family Court handles custody, visitation, support and orders of protection, but it cannot dissolve a marriage. Only Supreme Court can grant a divorce.
Does New York require a reason for the divorce?
New York allows a no-fault divorce based on an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage for at least six months. The economic issues and any issues involving children still have to be resolved before a judgment is entered.
The answers above are general information about practising divorce law in New York City, not legal advice, and do not create an attorney-client relationship. Court locations and filing offices are stated as of 2026; confirm current details with the court before relying on them.
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