Pelham Divorce Lawyer | SRIS, P.C.
Pelham Divorce Lawyer — How Can You Protect Your Family’s Future?
A divorce in Pelham, NY, involves complex legal steps under New York’s equitable distribution and no-fault laws. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for child custody, support, and property division. Our Pelham divorce lawyer handles the details of your case to seek a fair outcome. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
New York Divorce Law and Your Rights
Divorce in New York is governed by the Domestic Relations Law. The state recognizes both fault-based and no-fault grounds. A no-fault divorce can be filed on the grounds that the marriage has been irretrievably broken for at least six months. New York follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly, though not necessarily equally, by the court. The court also determines matters of spousal support (maintenance), child custody, and child support based on statutory guidelines and the best interests of the child.
Last verified: April 2026 | Westchester County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the New York Domestic Relations Law (official New York State Senate). Local court forms and filing information can be found at the Westchester County Supreme Court website.
Understanding the Divorce Process in Westchester County
The process begins with filing a Summons with Notice or a Summons and Complaint in the Westchester County Supreme Court. The grounds for divorce must be stated. In Westchester County, the court often encourages mediation or settlement conferences early in the process to resolve issues like property division and parenting time without a trial. If an agreement is not reached, the case proceeds through discovery and pre-trial motions before a final hearing.
- Consult with a Pelham divorce attorney to review your situation and legal options.
- File the initial divorce papers with the Westchester County Supreme Court clerk.
- Exchange financial disclosures and other relevant information with the other party.
- Attend court-ordered settlement conferences or mediation sessions.
- If no settlement is reached, prepare for and attend trial before a judge.
- Obtain and implement the judge’s final judgment of divorce and any related orders.
Potential Outcomes in a Divorce Case
In Pelham, a divorce can result in orders for property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support, with outcomes based on the specific facts of the marriage and family.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Property Division | Equitable Distribution | Fair, not necessarily equal, split of marital assets and debts. |
| Spousal Support | Statutory Guidelines & Factors | Temporary or long-term payments based on need and ability to pay. |
| Child Custody | Best Interests of the Child | Legal and physical custody arrangements outlining decision-making and living schedules. |
| Child Support | Child Support Standards Act | Ongoing financial support based on parental income and number of children. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Family Law Matters
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys use their combined experience to handle family law cases. We focus on the specific details of each client’s situation. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, personally contributed to amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating a deep involvement in the development of family law principles.
Our Approach to Your Case
We focus on understanding your specific goals, whether involving child custody, support, or the division of assets. Our Pelham divorce law firm prepares each case with attention to the local court’s procedures and expectations. We work to seek a resolution that addresses your immediate and long-term needs.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
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 Buffalo location serves clients in Pelham and across New York. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in New York?
It depends. An uncontested divorce where both parties agree on all terms can be finalized in a few months. A contested divorce that goes to trial can take a year or more, depending on the complexity of the issues and the court’s schedule.
What is the difference between legal separation and divorce in NY?
Legal separation results in a court order addressing support, custody, and property but does not legally end the marriage. A divorce legally dissolves the marriage, allowing both parties to remarry. Some choose legal separation for religious, financial, or health insurance reasons.
How is child custody determined in New York?
The court decides child custody based on the best interests of the child. Factors include each parent’s home environment, ability to provide care, the child’s relationships, and, for older children, their reasonable preferences. The court can award joint or sole legal and physical custody.
What is equitable distribution?
Equitable distribution is New York’s method for dividing marital property during a divorce. The court aims for a fair division based on factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and property, and contributions to the marriage. Fair does not always mean a 50/50 split.
Can I get spousal support (alimony)?
It depends. The court considers factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning capacity, age, health, and contributions to the marriage. Support can be temporary (pendente lite) during the case or post-divorce (maintenance) for a set duration or indefinitely in long-term marriages.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Under N.Y. Bus. Corp. Law § 101, state law governs this practice area.