Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Richmond County (Staten Island), New York
Divorce in Richmond County (Staten Island) requires handling New York Domestic Relations Law § 170 and § 236. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for Staten Island residents facing divorce, child custody under the “best interests” standard, and spousal support calculated by statutory formula. Our firm, founded in 1997, brings extensive experience to Richmond County Supreme Court and Family Court matters.
New York is a no-fault divorce state requiring an irretrievable breakdown of the relationship for at least six months. The Richmond County Supreme Court at 18 Richmond Terrace handles all divorce and equitable distribution cases.
New York Divorce Law and Statutory Definitions
New York divorce law is governed primarily by the Domestic Relations Law (DRL). A no-fault divorce is available under DRL § 170(7) when the relationship has broken down irretrievably for at least six months. New York also maintains fault grounds including adultery (DRL § 170(1)), cruel and inhuman treatment (DRL § 170(2)), and abandonment (DRL § 170(4)). The equitable distribution of marital property is controlled by DRL § 236, which requires a fair, though not necessarily equal, division based on multiple statutory factors.
Last verified: March 2026 | Richmond County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official New York Legal Resources
- New York Domestic Relations Law § 170 (official New York State Legislature) – The statutory grounds for divorce in New York.
- Richmond County Supreme Court website – Official court information, forms, and procedures for Staten Island.
Richmond County Family Court Procedures
Richmond County (Staten Island) Supreme Court handles all divorce and equitable distribution matters at 18 Richmond Terrace. The Richmond County Family Court, located separately, handles custody, visitation, child support, paternity, and family offense petitions. New York’s automatic restraining orders under DRL § 236 freeze marital assets and prohibit changes to insurance upon filing a divorce action.
- File initial papers: File a Summons with Notice or Summons and Complaint at the Richmond County Supreme Court Clerk’s Office. Pay the $335 index number fee.
- Exchange financial disclosure: Complete and exchange a sworn Statement of Net Worth detailing all assets, debts, income, and expenses.
- Attend mandatory conferences: Attend preliminary and compliance conferences. File a Request for Judicial Intervention (RJI) with a $95 fee.
- Attempt settlement: Participate in court-ordered settlement conferences or private mediation to resolve issues.
- Proceed to trial if necessary: If no settlement, file a note of issue ($30 fee) to place the case on the trial calendar for a hearing before a Supreme Court Justice.
Divorce Penalties and Financial Implications in New York
In Richmond County (Staten Island), divorce involves equitable distribution of marital property, potential spousal maintenance under a statutory formula, and child support based on combined parental income.
| Issue | Legal Standard / Classification | Financial Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Property Division | Equitable Distribution (DRL § 236) | Fair division of marital assets & debts | Separate property usually remains with owner |
| Spousal Maintenance (Alimony) | Statutory formula (temporary & post-divorce) | Based on income, marriage length, and need | Duration varies; can be modified |
| Child Support | Statutory percentage of combined income | 17% (1 child), 25% (2), 29% (3), up to $163k income | Continues until age 21; includes healthcare/education |
| Child Custody | Best Interests of the Child | Legal & physical custody determinations | Parenting time schedules; decision-making authority |
Results may vary. The outcomes described depend on the specific facts of each case.
Firm Credentials and Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to family law matters in New York. Our approach is case-specific, focusing on the unique details of each client’s situation in Richmond County courts.
Case Results and Client Outcomes
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes in family law and other practice areas.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Representation in Staten Island
Our New York location serves clients at Richmond County (Staten Island) courts, accessible via I-278 and the Staten Island Expressway. As a family law lawyer near Richmond County (Staten Island), we represent residents throughout Staten Island including St. George, New Dorp, Tottenville, Great Kills, Stapleton, and Port Richmond.
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 marital property divided in a New York divorce?
New York follows equitable distribution under DRL § 236. This does not mean equal. The court divides marital property fairly based on factors like marriage length, income, contributions, and future needs. Separate property acquired before marriage or by gift/inheritance usually remains with the original owner.
How is child support calculated in Richmond County?
Child support follows a statutory formula based on combined parental income up to $163,000. The basic percentages are 17% for one child, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, and 35% for five or more children. The court can order support above the cap based on the child’s needs.
What is the difference between Supreme Court and Family Court in Staten Island?
Richmond County Supreme Court handles divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support. Richmond County Family Court handles custody, visitation, child support, paternity, and family offense (domestic violence) petitions. Some cases may involve both courts.
How long does a contested divorce take in Staten Island?
A contested divorce in Richmond County typically takes 12 to 24 months or longer due to court volume. The timeline includes filing, discovery, mandatory settlement conferences, and potentially a trial. An uncontested divorce with an agreement can be completed in 3 to 6 months.
Related Legal Resources
- New York Family Law Lawyer – Our state hub page for New York divorce and family law.
- Kings County (Brooklyn) Divorce Lawyer – Family law representation in nearby Brooklyn.
- Richmond County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Criminal defense representation in Staten Island.
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile – Learn more about the managing attorney.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.