Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Putnam County, New York
New York uses statutory formulas for child support (17% of combined income for one child) and maintenance (alimony), with automatic restraining orders freezing assets upon filing.
New York Family Law Statutes
Family law in Putnam County operates under New York’s statutory framework. The primary laws are the Domestic Relations Law (DRL) for divorce and spousal support, and the Family Court Act (FCA) for custody and child support. The grounds for divorce are codified in N.Y. Domestic Relations Law § 170, with no-fault being the most common. Equitable distribution of marital property is governed by DRL § 236, and child custody follows the “best interests of the child” standard in DRL § 240. Child support calculations are mandated by the Child Support Standards Act (CSSA).
Last verified: March 2026 | Putnam County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the most current statutes and court procedures, refer to these official .gov sources:
Putnam County Family Court Process
Putnam County Supreme Court handles all divorce and equitable distribution filings, while Family Court handles custody, support, and family offense petitions. The courts are located at 20 County Center in Carmel. A key local procedural fact is that New York requires a 6-month period of irretrievable breakdown or a signed separation agreement for a no-fault divorce.
- File the initial summons and complaint: File with the Putnam County Supreme Court Clerk’s Office. Pay the $335 index number fee and serve your spouse according to New York procedural rules.
- Exchange financial disclosure: Both parties must exchange a sworn statement of net worth and supporting documents. Automatic restraining orders under DRL § 236 freeze assets upon filing.
- Attend mandatory settlement conferences: The court will schedule preliminary and compliance conferences. You must attempt settlement. If custody is contested, the court may order a forensic evaluation.
- File a Request for Judicial Intervention (RJI): If the case is not settled, file an RJI ($95 fee) to assign a judge. The judge will set a schedule for motions, discovery, and a trial date.
- Proceed to trial or finalize settlement: If no settlement is reached, the case proceeds to trial before a Supreme Court Justice. If settled, a judgment of divorce incorporating the settlement terms is submitted for the judge’s signature.
Putnam County Family Law Penalties & Standards
In Putnam County, family law matters involve statutory standards for distribution, support, and custody, not criminal penalties. Equitable distribution applies to marital property, and maintenance is calculated by a codified formula.
| Matter | Legal Standard / Classification | Financial Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce Filing | No-fault (DRL § 170(7)) | Index Fee: $335 + RJI $95 | Automatic asset freeze |
| Child Support (1 child) | 17% of combined parental income (up to $163k) | Ongoing monthly obligation | Income execution possible |
| Spousal Maintenance | Statutory formula (DRL § 236) | Temporary & post-divorce awards | Tax implications |
| Property Division | Equitable Distribution (DRL § 236) | Division of marital assets/debts | QDROs for retirement accounts |
| Custody Violation | Contempt / Enforcement | Fines, counsel fees | Modified parenting time |
Results may vary. The outcomes in family law cases depend on numerous factors specific to each situation.
Firm Credentials in New York Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to family law matters. A key differentiator is that Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating a deep, practical understanding of property division law that informs our approach in New York. Our tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our commitment to detailed, jurisdiction-specific representation in Putnam County.
Documented Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While specific Putnam County results are part of this aggregate, our extensive experience in New York family courts informs our strategic approach to divorce, custody, and support matters in Carmel and throughout the Hudson Valley.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Putnam County Representation
Our New York location serves clients at the Putnam County courts in Carmel. We are accessible via I-84, I-87 (NYS Thruway), and the Taconic State Parkway. As a family law lawyer near Putnam County, we represent clients in Carmel, Brewster, Cold Spring, Mahopac, Putnam Valley, Kent, and Patterson. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. All meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
By appointment only.
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in Putnam County, New York?
New York is a no-fault divorce state. The primary ground is an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage for at least six months, as defined in N.Y. Domestic Relations Law § 170(7). Fault-based grounds like adultery or cruel treatment are also available but less common.
How is child support calculated in Putnam County?
Child support follows a statutory formula. For one child, it’s 17% of the combined parental income up to $163,000. For two children, it’s 25%. The court has discretion for income above that cap. The formula is outlined in the New York Child Support Standards Act.
What is the difference between Putnam County Supreme Court and Family Court?
The Putnam County Supreme Court handles divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support (maintenance). The Putnam County Family Court handles custody, visitation, child support, paternity, and family offense (domestic violence) petitions. Some cases may be heard in both courts.
How long does a contested divorce take in Putnam County?
A contested divorce typically takes 12 to 24 months or more in Putnam County. The timeline depends on case complexity, court scheduling, and whether forensic evaluations for custody or finances are needed. An uncontested divorce can be completed in 3 to 6 months.
What are automatic restraining orders in a New York divorce?
Upon filing for divorce, automatic orders under DRL § 236 go into effect. These orders freeze marital assets, prohibit changing insurance beneficiaries, and restrict financial transactions without court approval or written spousal consent. They apply to both parties.
Related Legal Resources
Explore more about our legal services:
- New York Family Law Lawyer Hub – Overview of family law across New York State.
- Manhattan Divorce Lawyer – Family law representation in New York County.
- Putnam County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Defense representation in the same locality.
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile – Learn more about the primary attorney for this matter.
- Our New York Office Information
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your specific situation in Putnam County.