Contested Divorce Lawyer New York | SRIS, P.C.
Contested Divorce Lawyer New York — What Are Your Legal Options?
A contested divorce in New York County (Manhattan) involves disputes over grounds, property, support, or custody, requiring litigation in Supreme Court under DRL § 236. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strategic representation for these complex cases. Our contested divorce lawyer New York navigates the formal discovery process, mandatory settlement conferences, and potential trial proceedings to protect your rights and assets.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
What Is a Contested Divorce Under New York Law?
A contested divorce is one where the spouses cannot agree on one or more key issues, such as the grounds for divorce, division of marital property (equitable distribution), spousal maintenance (alimony), child custody, or child support. Unlike an uncontested divorce, a contested case requires judicial intervention to resolve these disputes. In New York, contested divorces are filed and litigated in the New York County Supreme Court. The process is governed by New York Domestic Relations Law (DRL), primarily DRL § 236 which outlines the rules for equitable distribution and maintenance.
Official Legal Resources for New York Divorce
For the official statutes, refer to the New York Domestic Relations Law on the state legislature’s website. For court-specific forms and procedures, visit the New York County Supreme Court website.
The Contested Divorce Process in New York County Supreme Court
When you file for a contested divorce in Manhattan, the process moves from initial pleadings to potential trial. The court at 60 Centre Street handles a high volume of complex family matters. Automatic orders under DRL § 236 take effect upon filing, freezing marital assets and prohibiting changes to insurance beneficiaries.
- File and Serve the Summons & Complaint: The plaintiff files the divorce action and serves the defendant, who must respond within a specific timeframe.
- Preliminary Conference & Discovery: The court schedules a conference to set a discovery schedule. Financial disclosure through formal discovery (interrogatories, depositions, subpoenas) is critical.
- Mandatory Settlement Conference: Before a trial date is set, parties must attend a settlement conference with the court to attempt resolution.
- Trial: If settlement fails, the case proceeds to trial where a judge will decide all contested issues.
- Post-Trial Motions & Judgment: After trial, the court issues a judgment of divorce detailing all rulings on property, support, and custody.
Potential Outcomes in a Contested Divorce
In New York County (Manhattan), a contested divorce can result in court-ordered equitable distribution of all marital property, maintenance awards based on statutory formulas, and child support orders following state guidelines.
| Issue | Legal Standard / Classification | Potential Outcome | Financial Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Property Division | Equitable Distribution (DRL § 236) | Court divides marital property fairly, not necessarily equally. | Division of assets/debts acquired during marriage. | May include sale of marital home, division of retirement accounts. |
| Spousal Maintenance | Statutory Formula (DRL § 236) | Temporary and post-divorce support calculated per income and duration of marriage. | Ongoing payment obligation for payer; income for recipient. | Duration can be temporary or long-term. |
| Child Support | Child Support Standards Act (CSSA) | Percentage of combined parental income (17% for one child). | Ongoing payment until emancipation. | May include add-ons for education, healthcare, childcare. |
| Child Custody | Best Interests of the Child | Legal and physical custody arrangements determined by court. | Impacts decision-making and living arrangements. | Parenting plan outlines schedule, holidays, communication. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Contested Divorce
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to complex family law disputes. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we are prepared for the intensive litigation a contested divorce demands. We understand the financial and emotional stakes involved in dividing assets, determining support, and establishing custody in New York’s courts.
Case Results & Client Focus
SRIS actively practices in New York County — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across our practice areas. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contested Divorce Law Firm New York — Contact for Consultation
Our firm represents clients in contested divorce cases in New York County (Manhattan) Supreme Court. 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 | Local: (838)-292-0003 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
By appointment only.
Contested Divorce Lawyer New York FAQ
What makes a divorce “contested” in New York?
It depends. A divorce becomes contested when spouses disagree on any major issue like grounds for divorce, property division, alimony, child custody, or support, requiring a judge to decide.
How long does a contested divorce take in Manhattan?
12 to 24 months or more. The timeline depends on case complexity, court scheduling, and the extent of discovery and motions. High-conflict cases with valuation disputes or custody battles typically take longer.
What is “equitable distribution” in a New York divorce?
Equitable distribution is the legal principle under DRL § 236 where marital property is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally, by the court based on factors like each spouse’s income, contributions, and future needs.
Can I get temporary support during my contested divorce?
Yes. You can file for pendente lite (temporary) maintenance and child support. These motions are typically heard within 30-60 days of filing to provide financial stability during the litigation.
Do I need a contested divorce attorney New York for settlement talks?
Yes. Having an attorney is crucial even during settlement negotiations to protect your rights, ensure full financial disclosure, and draft enforceable agreements that comply with New York law.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing a contested divorce, you may also need information about criminal defense or immigration matters in New York County. For more on family law across New York, visit our New York family law hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Kings County (Brooklyn) and Queens County (Queens).
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.