State Directory
Family Lawyers in New York
Browse this state directory, then narrow by city when a local Family Law page is available.
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These cities currently have Family Law directory coverage in New York.
About Family Law in New York
New York Supreme Court is the only court that can grant a divorce; Family Court handles custody, child support, spousal support petitions by married persons, and paternity, but not divorce itself.
To bring a divorce action, New York generally requires that one party has been a continuous resident of the state for at least one year before filing, or that both parties are New York residents when the marriage occurred in-state, among other residency options set by statute.
New York has offered a no-fault divorce ground since 2010: a spouse can file citing an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage for at least six months, without proving wrongdoing, but the divorce isn't finalized until property, support, and custody issues are resolved.
New York's Child Support Standards Act applies fixed percentages of combined parental income to set basic child support: 17% for one child, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, and at least 35% for five or more, generally payable until a child turns 21.
Sources: New York Domestic Relations Law § 230, New York Domestic Relations Law § 170(7), New York Family Court Act § 413 (verified 2026-07-03)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose a Family Law lawyer in New York?
Look for an attorney with relevant Family Law experience, confirm they are licensed to practice in New York, and use an initial consultation to evaluate whether their approach and communication style fit your situation.
What should I prepare before contacting a lawyer?
Gather any documents relevant to your matter, write a short timeline of key events, and prepare a list of questions about cost, process, and expected timeline. Being organized helps an attorney evaluate your situation quickly.
Can I compare lawyers across different cities in New York?
Yes — legal requirements for many practice areas are largely set at the state level, so Family Law attorneys in different New York cities can often help with similar matters. Comparing profiles across nearby cities can widen your options if local coverage is limited.