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Published April 23, 2026 Author: RoseAnne C. Branda, Executive Partner and Director of the Family and Matrimonial Law department at Abrams Fensterman, LLP Crain’s Notable Women in Law Award |
New York Family Law Attorneys
Navigating the complexities of matrimonial law requires a strategic approach centered on protecting your future. As a premier family law firm on Long Island, Abrams Law provides sophisticated advocacy for clients facing life-altering transitions. Our attorneys handle a broad spectrum of domestic relations matters in Nassau and Suffolk Counties, and all of NYS, ensuring that every legal action aligns with your long-term objectives. Whether you are seeking a divorce lawyer near me for a simple filing or require a team to manage a high-stakes contested matter, our firm delivers the expertise necessary for success in New York courts.
Divorce, Matrimonial, and Family Law in New York
Divorce and family law govern legal relationships between spouses, parents, and children in New York. These laws determine how marriages are dissolved, how assets are divided, and how parental responsibilities are assigned. The legal framework is designed to ensure fairness while prioritizing the best interests of children and financial equity between spouses.
What Does a Divorce and Family Lawyer Do?
A divorce and family lawyer represents individuals in legal matters involving marriage, separation, paternity, and family relationships. Their role includes both legal advocacy and strategic guidance throughout emotionally complex situations. Attorneys also help clients understand their rights and obligations under New York law while preparing documentation, negotiating settlements, and representing them in court when necessary.
Core Services Include:
● Divorce proceedings, contested and uncontested
● Paternity proceedings
● Child custody and visitation agreements
● Division of marital property
● Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
● Domestic violence and protective orders
How Divorce Works in New York
Divorce in New York follows a legal process that includes filing, financial disclosure, negotiation, and resolution. Each stage is governed by procedural rules that must be followed precisely to avoid delays or unfavorable outcomes. The process may vary depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, as well as the complexity of financial and custody issues involved.
Division in Divorce
Property division determines how marital assets and debts are allocated between spouses automatically under New York’s equitable distribution laws, which focus on fairness rather than an equal split. Courts evaluate factors such as income, contributions to the marriage, and future financial needs to reach a balanced outcome.
Marital Property Includes:
● Income earned during marriage
● Real estate
● Retirement accounts
● Business interests
Spousal Support and Maintenance
Spousal support and maintenance refer to financial payments made from one spouse to the other during or after a divorce to address income disparities and maintain financial stability. In New York, courts use statutory guidelines along with case specific factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning capacity, health, and future financial needs to determine the amount and duration of support.
Factors include:
● Length of marriage
● Income disparity
● Standard of living
● Future earning potential
Legal Representation in Family Law Cases
Legal representation in family law cases involves guiding clients through complex legal processes while advocating for their rights in matters such as divorce, custody, support, and property division. Attorneys handle case strategy, prepare and file legal documents, negotiate settlements, and represent clients in court, ensuring compliance with New York law while working to achieve efficient and legally sound outcomes. Abrams Fensterman, LLP represents clients in both negotiation and litigation, regardless of case complexity and conflict level.
When to Hire a Divorce Lawyer
You should consult a lawyer when:
● Filing for divorce
● Facing custody disputes
● Protecting assets
● Negotiating support
● Dealing with high-conflict situations
Visit our New York divorce lawyers page to learn how Abrams Fensterman, LLP can assist you with your case.
Child Custody and Modifications in New York
Child custody determines parental responsibility, while modifications address changes to existing custody orders when circumstances evolve. Courts prioritize the best interests of the child and allow updates when there is a substantial change affecting the child’s welfare or a parent’s ability to provide care.
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements in New York
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are legal contracts that define how assets, debts, and financial responsibilities are handled before or during a marriage. These agreements are used to establish clarity, reduce conflict, and protect individual or business assets in the event of divorce or separation. They are enforceable under New York law when properly drafted and executed.
These agreements are particularly important in marriages involving significant assets, prior obligations, or business ownership. They can also address spousal support expectations and property division in advance, minimizing uncertainty and litigation risk. Legal guidance ensures that agreements meet enforceability standards and reflect both parties’ interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to get divorced in New York?
An uncontested divorce where both parties agree on all terms is the fastest process.
How is custody decided in New York?
Courts prioritize the best interests of the child, considering stability, caregiving history, and parental fitness.
Do both spouses have to agree to divorce?
No, New York allows no-fault divorce based on an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.
How long does a divorce take in New York?
It can range from a few months for uncontested cases to over a year for contested cases.
Contact Our Law Firm
Executive Partner RoseAnn C. Branda leads a team of lawyers with a renowned track record of representing clients with sophisticated financial needs. When dealing with high-asset divorces or other complex family law litigation, our attorneys work closely with accountants, actuaries and other forensic experts to analyze complex financial issues and develop strategies to maximize our clients’ best interests.
For further information about family law, please contact our law firm on Long Island at 516-328-2300, in Brooklyn at 718-215-5300, White Plains at 914-607-7010, Rochester at 585-218-9999 or Albany at 518-535-9477 to schedule an initial consultation.
