Best Divorce Lawyers in NYC 2024

Facing a divorce in New York City can be an overwhelming experience. Emotions run high, legalities seem complex, and finding the right support is crucial. This guide explores how to find the Best Divorce Lawyers in NYC (2024) to protect your rights and guide you through this challenging time.

Best Divorce Lawyers in New York

Here are some of the best divorce lawyers in New York for 2024:

Alton L. Abramowitz

Alton L. Abramowitz, an accomplished divorce lawyer, has made significant contributions to the legal field. Throughout his career, he has held important positions in leading bar associations, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to family law. Here are some notable achievements and roles associated with Alton L. Abramowitz:

1. He is a partner at the law firm Mayerson Abramowitz & Kahn, LLP.
2. His peers have recognized him for many years as one of the leaders of New York’s matrimonial bar.
3. He formerly served on the National Executive Committee and is a Past President of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML).
4. He is listed in both annual publications, Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers.

Peter C. Alkalay

Peter C. Alkalay is a distinguished divorce lawyer based in New York. Here are some key points about him:

• He is an attorney at the law firm McLaughlin & Stern LLP.
• He was born in New York City and received his B.A. degree from Princeton University in 1968 and his J.D. from Columbia University in 1973.
• He has been recognized as one of the top Family Law attorneys in New York.
• His practice areas include Family Law, Entertainment & Sports, and Business Litigation.
• He has been selected to Super Lawyers, a recognition gained through professional achievement, peer recognition, and other distinguishing criteria.

Regarding his divorce case wins, specific details are not readily available due to confidentiality and privacy reasons. However, here are some cases he was involved in:

• Elias v. Elias: In this case, Peter C. Alkalay represented the appellant-respondent. The court awarded the plaintiff only 25% of the value of the defendant’s interest in certain business entities.
• Stewart v. Stewart: In this case, Peter C. Alkalay represented the appellant. The court made an unequal distribution of the marital property in favor of the defendant’s husband.

Barry Berkman

Barry Berkman is a renowned divorce lawyer based in New York. Here are some key points about him:

• He is a founding partner of Berkman Bottger Newman & Rodd.
• He received his B.A. degree from Harvard College and his law degree from Stanford University¹.
• He specializes in matrimonial law and mediation.
• He has served on the American Bar Association Task Force on Standards of Practice for Divorce Mediation.

Specific details about his divorce case wins are not readily available due to confidentiality and privacy reasons. However, it’s worth noting that after 15 years of trying divorce cases in the courts, Barry Berkman realized that ‘nobody ever won a divorce case.’ He believes that litigation comes with a high price tag in the form of expense and toxic effects on everyone involved, especially the children.

Allen A. Drexel

Allen A. Drexel is a distinguished divorce lawyer based in New York. Here are some key points about him:

• He is an attorney at the law firm Gallet Dreyer & Berkey, LLP.
• He received his J.D. from Stanford Law School.
• Forbes Advisor has recognized him as one of NYC’s Best Divorce Lawyers of 2024.

Specific details about his divorce case wins are not readily available due to confidentiality and privacy reasons. However, it’s worth noting that he is dedicated to delivering the best possible outcomes to firm clients.

Elizabeth J. Fee

Elizabeth J. Fee is a highly experienced divorce lawyer based in New York. Here are some key points about her:

• She has more than 30 years of experience in all aspects of matrimonial and family law.
• She is a certified mediator, collaborative law attorney, and parent coordinator.
• She has been selected as a New York Super Lawyer since 2014.
• She graduated from Georgetown University Law Center in 1984.

Specific details about her divorce case wins are not readily available due to confidentiality and privacy reasons. However, it’s worth noting that she has extensive experience helping her clients resolve their financial disputes.

Julia G. Maxfield

Julia G. Maxfield is a highly respected divorce lawyer based in New York. Here are some key points about her:

• She is a litigation partner in the New York office of Barton LLP, where her practice focuses exclusively on matrimonial and family law.
• For nearly two decades, Julia has provided legal services in relation to divorce, divorce planning, property division, child custody and visitation, child support, spousal support, separation agreements, prenuptial agreements, postnuptial agreements, modification actions, enforcement actions, and family offense proceedings.
• She fiercely advocates for her clients in divorce and child custody matters in the New York Supreme and Family Courts and the New York Appellate Courts.
• She was honored by Forbes to be named one of the ten “Best Divorce Lawyers in NYC 2024.”

Specific details about her divorce case wins are not readily available due to confidentiality and privacy reasons. However, it’s worth noting that she is known for her ability to resolve complex cases favorably outside of court.

How to File a Divorce Lawsuit in NYC?

Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved in filing a divorce lawsuit in NYC:

Understanding Eligibility and Residency Requirements:

• Grounds for Divorce: New York is a no-fault divorce state, but you still need to cite a legal reason for the divorce. Common grounds include adultery, inhuman treatment, abandonment, or living separate and apart for at least six months with consent (one year without consent).
• Residency: Before filing, at least one spouse must have lived in New York State for the past six months and in New York City for the past 90 days.

Preparing the Paperwork:

• The Summons with Notice or Summons and Complaint: These documents formally notify your spouse of the lawsuit and outline the grounds for divorce, requested child custody arrangements (if applicable), and desired property division.
• Financial Disclosure Statements: Both spouses need to provide a detailed accounting of their assets, debts, and income.
• Other Documents: Depending on the complexity of your case, you may need to gather additional documents like marriage certificates, birth certificates (if children are involved), and proof of income.

Filing the Lawsuit and Serving Your Spouse:

• File with the County Clerk’s Office: You’ll file the divorce papers with the county clerk’s Office in the county where you reside or where your spouse resides. There are associated filing fees.
• Serving Your Spouse: A process server, not you, must deliver a copy of the Summons and Complaint to your spouse.

The Legal Process:

• Discovery: This phase involves exchanging information and documents with your spouse’s attorney.
• Mediation: New York courts often encourage mediation, a court-ordered process with a neutral mediator to reach an agreement on child custody, property division, and spousal support outside of court.
• Trial: If no agreement is reached in mediation, you proceed to trial, where a judge makes final decisions regarding child custody, property division, and spousal support.

How can I find the best Divorce lawyers in New York City?

Finding the best divorce lawyers in New York City involves a few steps:

• Research: Start by doing some online research. Websites like Forbes Advisor, Best Local Lawyer Guide, Justia, and others provide lists of top-rated divorce lawyers in NYC. These lists often include details about the lawyers’ experience, areas of expertise, and client reviews.
• Reviews and Ratings: Look at the lawyers’ reviews and ratings. This can give you an idea of their reputation and the experiences of their previous clients.
• Specialization: Ensure that the lawyer specializes in divorce and family law. This is important as laws and regulations can vary greatly in different areas of law.
• Consultation: Most law firms offer a free initial consultation. This can be a good opportunity to ask questions, understand their approach, and see if you feel comfortable with them.
• Experience and Credentials: Check the lawyer’s experience and credentials. Find out where they went to school, how long they’ve been practicing, and if they have any special certifications or recognitions.

How much does a divorce lawyer cost in NYC?

The cost of a divorce lawyer in NYC can vary depending on the complexity of your case, the lawyer’s experience, and the amount of time spent on your case. Many lawyers offer hourly rates, while some offer flat fees for uncontested divorces.

What should I bring to my initial consultation with a divorce lawyer in New York?

Be prepared to discuss the following:

• Background of your marriage and reasons for divorce.
• Any children involved and their ages.
• Financial information, including assets, debts, and income.
• Any existing custody agreements (if applicable).
• Your desired outcome for the divorce settlement.

How much does a divorce attorney cost in New York?

The cost of a divorce lawyer in New York City can vary depending on several factors, including:

• The complexity of your case: Uncontested divorces with minimal assets and no children involved are generally less expensive than contested divorces with complex financial situations and child custody disagreements.
• Lawyer’s experience: Lawyers with more experience and a proven track record typically command higher fees.
• Location: Divorce lawyers in Manhattan or other high-demand areas might charge more than lawyers in other boroughs.
• Billing structure: Some lawyers charge hourly rates, while others offer flat fees for specific services (e.g., uncontested divorces).

Here’s a breakdown of some possible costs:

• Hourly Rates: $250 – $700+ per hour (depending on lawyer’s experience and location).
• Uncontested Divorce: $3,000 – $10,000+ (flat fee)
• Contested Divorce: $15,000 – $50,000+ (total cost can vary significantly)

Additional Costs:

• Filing fees
• Court costs
• Expert witness fees (if needed)
• Mediation fees (if applicable)

FAQs