Divorce & Family Law Attorney in New York County (Manhattan), New York
New York County (Manhattan) divorce requires handling New York Domestic Relations Law (DRL) § 170 and § 236; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for divorce, equitable distribution, child custody, and support matters in Manhattan Supreme Court. Our firm, founded in 1997, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your case. By appointment only.
In New York, no-fault divorce requires an irretrievable breakdown of the relationship for at least six months. The Supreme Court filing fee is $335 for the index number.
New York Family Law Statutes
New York family law is governed primarily by the Domestic Relations Law (DRL) and Family Court Act (FCA). Key statutes include DRL § 170 (grounds for divorce), DRL § 236 (equitable distribution and maintenance), and DRL § 240 (custody and child support). These laws establish the framework for dissolving marriages, dividing assets, and determining support obligations in New York County.
Last verified: March 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
Manhattan Supreme Court Family Law Process
All divorce and equitable distribution matters in New York County are heard in the Supreme Court at 60 Centre Street. Child custody, support, and family offense petitions are handled in the New York County Family Court. The courts require strict adherence to filing deadlines and financial disclosure rules.
- File initial papers: File a Summons with Notice or Summons and Complaint at the Supreme Court Clerk’s Office. Pay the $335 index number fee.
- Serve your spouse: Serve divorce papers by a process server or sheriff. File proof of service with the court.
- Exchange financial disclosure: Both parties must exchange a sworn Statement of Net Worth and supporting documents. Automatic orders freeze marital assets upon filing.
- Attend court conferences: Attend preliminary, compliance, and mandatory settlement conferences. The court may refer the case to mediation.
- Reach settlement or trial: Negotiate a settlement covering all terms. If no agreement, file a Note of Issue and proceed to trial before a Supreme Court justice.
New York Family Law Penalties and Standards
In New York County (Manhattan), family law matters involve specific financial obligations and legal standards: no-fault divorce requires irretrievable breakdown for 6+ months; equitable distribution of marital property; maintenance calculated by statutory formula; and child support based on percentage of combined parental income.
| Matter | Legal Standard | Financial Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce Filing | No-fault (6+ month breakdown) or fault grounds | Index fee: $335; RJI: $95; Note of Issue: $30 | Automatic orders freeze assets; affects insurance beneficiaries |
| Equitable Distribution | Fair division of marital property (DRL § 236) | Division of assets, debts, retirement accounts | Business valuation may be required; tax implications |
| Maintenance (Alimony) | Statutory formula based on income & marriage length | Temporary and post-divorce support payments | Modifiable based on changed circumstances |
| Child Support | 17% for one child, 25% for two (up to $163K income) | Monthly payments; healthcare; education expenses | Enforceable by income execution; contempt possible |
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child standard | Potential forensic evaluation costs: $5,000-$20,000+ | Parenting schedule; decision-making authority |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials and Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide, we bring substantial resources to family law matters in New York County. Our approach is case-specific, focusing on the details of New York statutory requirements and local court procedures.
Case Results
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes in family law and related matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Representation
Our New York location serves clients at New York County (Manhattan) courts, accessible via FDR Drive, West Side Highway, and all subway lines. We are a family law lawyer near Manhattan Supreme Court and the surrounding communities.
We serve Manhattan neighborhoods including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, East Village, Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in New York?
New York allows both fault and no-fault grounds. The most common is no-fault, requiring an irretrievable breakdown of the relationship for at least six months (N.Y. Domestic Relations Law § 170). Fault grounds include adultery, cruel and inhuman treatment, abandonment, and imprisonment.
How is property divided in a New York divorce?
New York follows equitable distribution under DRL § 236. This means marital property is divided fairly, not necessarily equally. The court considers factors like each spouse’s income, contributions to the marriage, and future needs. Separate property acquired before marriage or by gift/inheritance usually remains with the original owner.
How is child support calculated in New York?
Child support follows a statutory percentage of combined parental income: 17% for one child, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, and 35% for five or more (up to $163,000 combined income). The non-custodial parent typically pays their proportional share to the custodial parent.
What is the difference between maintenance and spousal support?
In New York, ‘maintenance’ is the term for what is commonly called alimony. It is calculated using a codified statutory formula based on the payer’s income and the length of the marriage. Temporary maintenance can be awarded during the divorce, and post-divorce maintenance may be ordered after the judgment.
How long does a divorce take in New York County?
An uncontested divorce in New York County typically takes 3-6 months from filing to judgment. A contested divorce can take 12-24 months or longer due to court volume, discovery, motions, and potential trial. Mandatory settlement conferences are required before trial.
Related Legal Resources
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.