Divorce & Family Law Attorney in New York County (Manhattan), New York
New York County (Manhattan) divorce requires meeting the 6-month irretrievable breakdown standard under New York Domestic Relations Law § 170(7) or proving fault grounds; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation in Manhattan Supreme Court for equitable distribution, maintenance calculations using statutory formulas, and child custody determinations under the best interests standard. Our New York location serves clients throughout Manhattan by appointment only.
New York Family Law Statutes
New York family law is governed by the Domestic Relations Law (DRL) and Family Court Act (FCA). DRL § 170 establishes grounds for divorce, including no-fault irretrievable breakdown after six months. DRL § 236 governs equitable distribution of marital property and maintenance (alimony) calculations using codified formulas. DRL § 240 addresses child custody and support, applying a statutory percentage formula to combined parental income up to $163,000.
Last verified: March 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of New York divorce laws: New York Domestic Relations Law (official New York State Legislature). For court procedures and forms: New York County Supreme Court website (official .gov domain).
Manhattan Family Court Procedures
New York County (Manhattan) Supreme Court handles all divorce and equitable distribution matters at 60 Centre Street. The New York County Family Court, located separately, handles custody, visitation, child support, paternity, and family offense petitions. Automatic restraining orders under DRL § 236 freeze marital assets and prohibit insurance changes upon filing.
- File initial documents: Submit summons with notice or summons and complaint at the New York County Supreme Court Clerk’s Office with the $335 index number fee.
- Serve the other party: Serve your spouse with divorce papers within 120 days using a process server, sheriff, or someone over 18 not involved in the case.
- Exchange financial disclosure: Complete and exchange sworn statements of net worth detailing assets, debts, income, and expenses within 45 days after service.
- Attend settlement conferences: Participate in mandatory settlement conferences where a judge or referee helps negotiate terms.
- File Request for Judicial Intervention: File an RJI with $95 fee if issues remain unresolved, assigning the case to a specific judge.
- Proceed to trial if necessary: If settlement fails, present evidence and testimony before a judge for final judgment.
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 divides marital property fairly, maintenance follows statutory formulas, and child support uses percentage calculations.
| Matter | Legal Standard | Financial Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce Filing | No-fault (6+ months breakdown) or fault grounds | Index number fee: $335; RJI: $95; note of issue: $30 | Automatic restraining orders freeze assets |
| Equitable Distribution | Fair division of marital property per DRL § 236 | Division of assets/debts acquired during marriage | Separate property typically remains with owner |
| Maintenance (Alimony) | Statutory formula based on income and marriage length | Temporary and post-divorce calculations apply | Can be modified with substantial change in circumstances |
| Child Support | Percentage of combined parental income per DRL § 240 | 17% for one child, 25% for two, etc. up to $163,000 | Continues until age 21; medical/educational add-ons |
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child standard | Forensic evaluations: $5,000-$20,000+ | Legal vs. physical custody distinctions apply |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials
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 combines global advocacy with local precision for Manhattan clients.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our attorneys approach each Manhattan family law case with focused attention to New York statutory requirements and local court procedures.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Representation in Manhattan
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 serve 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 County (Manhattan)?
New York allows no-fault divorce based on irretrievable breakdown of the relationship for 6+ months under DRL § 170(7). Fault grounds include adultery, cruel and inhuman treatment, abandonment for one year, imprisonment for three years, or living apart under a separation decree.
How is marital property divided in a New York divorce?
New York follows equitable distribution under DRL § 236. The court divides marital property fairly, not necessarily equally, considering factors like marriage duration, income, contributions, and future needs. Separate property acquired before marriage or by gift/inheritance typically remains with the original owner.
How is child support calculated in New York County?
Child support follows a statutory percentage formula: 17% of combined parental income for one child, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, 35% for five or more. This applies to combined income up to $163,000; above that amount, the court has discretion.
What is the difference between maintenance and child support?
Maintenance (alimony) is spousal support paid from one spouse to another, calculated using a codified statutory formula based on income and marriage length. Child support is for children’s expenses, calculated as a percentage of combined parental income and continues until age 21.
How long does a contested divorce take in New York County?
A contested divorce in New York County typically takes 12-24+ months due to court volume. The process includes filing, discovery, mandatory settlement conferences, and potentially trial. Uncontested divorces with signed agreements can complete in 3-6 months.
Related Legal Services
New York Family Law Lawyer | Kings County (Brooklyn) Divorce Lawyer | Manhattan Criminal Defense Lawyer | Attorney Mr. Sris Profile | New York Office Location
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.