Divorce & Family Law Attorney in New York

Divorce · Custody · Support · Orders of Protection — Hablamos Español · Flasim shqip

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Practical, Child-Centered Advocacy

Family matters demand equal parts advocacy and empathy. We handle contested and uncontested divorce, custody and parenting-time, child and spousal support, orders of protection, and post-judgment modifications. From first filing through settlement or trial, we keep the focus on durable, child-centered solutions while safeguarding your financial stability and parental rights.

Expect straightforward guidance on property division, support formulas, and realistic outcomes in your county. We build the factual record — school and medical history, work schedules, third-party statements — so judges see the full picture. When settlement is possible, we negotiate firmly and efficiently; when litigation is necessary, we prepare narrowly tailored trials that minimize conflict while protecting what matters most.

Where family and immigration or criminal matters intersect: we regularly align strategies so that family-court positions don't undermine immigration relief or criminal-case outcomes, and vice versa. One plan — across all forums — reduces risk and improves results.

Areas of Practice

  • Divorce — Contested and uncontested proceedings, equitable distribution of marital assets, spousal maintenance.
  • Custody & Parenting-Time — Best-interests presentation, modification petitions, relocation matters, international custody.
  • Child & Spousal Support — Guideline calculations, deviation arguments, enforcement and modification.
  • Orders of Protection — Safety-focused strategy with careful evidentiary support in Family and Criminal Court.
  • Post-Judgment Modifications — Changed circumstances, enforcement of existing orders, and compliance issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a divorce take in New York?

Uncontested divorces can be finalized in 3 to 6 months. Contested matters with custody or property disputes may take 12 to 24 months or longer, depending on court schedules and complexity. Contact us to discuss what to expect for your specific situation.

How does a New York court determine child custody?

New York courts apply a "best interests of the child" standard, weighing parental fitness, stability, each parent's relationship with the child, schooling and medical needs, continuity of environment, and the child's preference when age-appropriate.

Can child or spousal support be modified after an order is entered?

Yes. Either party may petition for modification upon a substantial change in circumstances — income change, job loss, relocation, or change in the child's needs — or after three years since the prior order. We handle modification petitions and enforcement throughout New York.

Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce in New York?

While not legally required, counsel ensures all settlement terms are correctly documented, your rights are protected, and future enforcement issues are avoided. Even amicable divorces involve complex paperwork where a single error can have lasting consequences.

What is an order of protection and how do I obtain one?

An order of protection is a court order directing another person to refrain from contact or stay away from you. You can petition for one in Family Court at no filing fee, or it may be issued in criminal court if charges have been filed. Contact us immediately if you need protection or if one has been filed against you.

Do you handle custody cases involving parents from different countries?

Yes. International custody matters may implicate the Hague Convention, immigration status, and enforcement across jurisdictions. These cases require careful coordination across multiple legal frameworks. Contact us to discuss your specific circumstances.

Legal Authority & Official Resources

NY Domestic Relations Law § 170 sets New York's grounds for divorce. Section 170(7) — irretrievable breakdown of the marriage for at least six months — is the no-fault ground available to all spouses.

DRL § 236(B) governs equitable distribution of marital property, directing courts to weigh factors including duration of the marriage, each spouse's income and property, and contributions to the marriage.

Family Court Act § 413 establishes the child support obligation using the Child Support Standards Act (CSSA) percentage formula. (NY Courts divorce resources) Curious what the formula looks like for your situation? Try our free New York Child Support Estimator — an educational, step-by-step walkthrough of the CSSA calculation.

Legal information current as of July 2026; penalties and processing rules change — this is general information, not legal advice.

Contact Our Family Law Team

Law Offices of Martin Uli, PLLC
43 W 43rd St., Suite 376, New York, NY 10036
195 Broadway, Suite 401, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Mon–Fri 8 AM–8 PM · Sat–Sun 10 AM–6 PM

📞 (917) 382-4472 ✉️ Email Us

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