Divorce Lawyers In Rockland County New York | SRIS, P.C.
Divorce Lawyers In Rockland County New York — What Are Your Rights?
Divorce in Rockland County is governed by New York Domestic Relations Law (DRL) § 170 and § 236, requiring a 6-month period of irretrievable breakdown for no-fault cases. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced representation for equitable distribution, child support, and custody matters in Rockland County Supreme Court. Our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results.
New York Divorce Law in Rockland County
Divorce in Rockland County, New York, is a legal process that dissolves a marriage and addresses related issues like property division, spousal support, and child custody. The primary statutes are New York Domestic Relations Law (DRL) § 170, which outlines the grounds for divorce, and DRL § 236, which governs equitable distribution of marital property and maintenance (alimony). New York is a “no-fault” divorce state, meaning the most common ground is the irretrievable breakdown of the relationship for at least six months. However, fault-based grounds like adultery or cruel and inhuman treatment remain options under the law.
Last verified: April 2026 | Rockland County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New York’s divorce laws, refer to the New York State Senate website. For local court procedures and forms, visit the Rockland County Supreme Court website.
Local Court Process for Divorce in Rockland County
All divorce and equitable distribution cases in Rockland County are filed in the Rockland County Supreme Court, located at 1 South Main Street, New City. Concurrently, matters involving child custody, visitation, and support are often handled in the Rockland County Family Court. A key procedural fact is the automatic restraining orders under DRL § 236, which freeze marital assets and prohibit changes to insurance policies as soon as a divorce action is filed. This is a critical protection for both parties.
- File a Summons with Notice or Summons and Complaint with the Rockland County Supreme Court Clerk and pay the $335 index number fee.
- Serve the divorce papers on your spouse according to New York’s strict service of process rules.
- Exchange mandatory financial disclosure, including a Statement of Net Worth, with your spouse.
- Attend a preliminary conference to set a discovery schedule and discuss settlement possibilities.
- Participate in mandatory settlement conferences; if unresolved, the case proceeds to trial before a Supreme Court Justice.
Potential Outcomes in a Rockland County Divorce
In Rockland County, a divorce resolves marital status and determines equitable distribution of property, potential maintenance, and, if applicable, child custody and support based on statutory 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. | Business valuations and retirement account divisions are common. |
| Spousal Support | Maintenance (DRL § 236) | Temporary & post-divorce support calculated via statutory formula. | Ongoing payment obligation based on income and duration of marriage. | Can be modified upon a substantial change in circumstances. |
| Child Custody | Best Interests of the Child | Legal and physical custody arrangements determined. | May affect child support and tax filings. | Parenting plans detail visitation schedules and decision-making. |
| Child Support | Child Support Standards Act (CSSA) | Basic support: 17% of combined income for one child, 25% for two. | Ongoing payment until emancipation. | Includes add-ons for healthcare, education, and childcare. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Rockland County Divorce
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex family law matters. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we are prepared to handle the intricate financial and custodial issues that often arise in Rockland County divorces. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in cases involving business valuations or complex asset tracing.
Documented Case Experience
While we actively represent clients in Rockland County, our firm-wide track record spans over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. These results include successful negotiations and litigation concerning property division, spousal support modifications, and contested custody matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Divorce Law Firm Serving Rockland County Communities
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 | Local: (716) 348-1919
By appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients throughout Rockland County, including New City, Nanuet, Spring Valley, Suffern, Haverstraw, Pearl River, Nyack, Stony Point, and Sloatsburg. We are accessible via I-87 and other major highways. As a local divorce law firm in Rockland County New York, we understand the specific procedures of the Rockland County Supreme Court. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings available by appointment only.
Divorce Attorneys In Rockland County New York FAQ
What are the grounds for divorce in New York?
No. The most common ground is the irretrievable breakdown of the relationship for at least six months, which is a no-fault basis. Fault-based grounds like adultery or cruel and inhuman treatment are also still available under New York Domestic Relations Law § 170.
How is property divided in a New York divorce?
It depends. New York is an equitable distribution state under DRL § 236. This means the court will divide marital property (assets and debts acquired during the marriage) in a manner it deems fair, which is not always a 50/50 split. The court considers factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income, and future financial circumstances.
How is child support calculated in Rockland County?
Child support follows a statutory formula. For combined parental income up to $163,000, the basic obligation is 17% for one child, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, and 35% for five or more children. The court also orders add-ons for healthcare, education, and childcare expenses. For income above the cap, the court has discretion.
What is the difference between Supreme Court and Family Court in Rockland County?
The Rockland County Supreme Court has exclusive jurisdiction over divorce and equitable distribution of property. The Rockland County Family Court handles matters of child custody, visitation, child support, paternity, and family offense (orders of protection) petitions. These courts often coordinate when cases involve both divorce and children.
How long does a divorce take in Rockland County?
An uncontested divorce where both parties agree on all terms can be finalized in as little as 3-6 months from filing. A contested divorce, where issues are disputed, typically takes 12 to 24 months or longer, depending on the complexity of the case, the need for discovery, and the court’s trial calendar.
For more information, see our New York Family Law overview. We also assist with criminal defense and immigration matters in Rockland County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.