Family Law

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DOES NY HAVE GROUNDS FOR DIVORCE?

In NY state, we do not have specific that you must have grounds for divorce before you can file your divorce case. However, the basic definition of “grounds for divorce” refers to the reason that the marriage has ended. 

Therefore, you would only need to state that the marriage has broken down to the point where you and your spouse can no longer continue as a married couple.

Understanding NY State Residency Requirements for Divorce

The only other requirement to file for divorce is that you or your spouse must have been NY State residents for two years. This residency requirement can also be fulfilled if you were living continuously in the state, your marriage took place, and you have been living together as a couple. 

Or, you can fulfill the requirement if you were both residents on the same day your divorce was filed and the marriage’s breakdown occurred while you were in NY state.

Partner with a Trusted Poughkeepsie Divorce Attorney

When the fundamental well-being of your family is weighing in the balance, you can’t afford to take chances. Hiring one of our award-winning attorneys provides a team that has handled more than 2, 500 cases

Divorce is a stressful procedure. Let us take that burden off your shoulders. It is highly recommended that you consult with a divorce attorney in Poughkeepsie to strategically construct a plan that would work with your goals and best interests.

Advantages of Filing for Divorce First in NY

Generally, it does not matter who files for divorce first in New York. The party who files for divorce is known as the "petitioner," and the other party is known as the "respondent." The court will treat both parties equally regardless of who files first. 

However, there are some potential advantages to filing for divorce first. For example, the petitioner may be able to present evidence of the respondent's wrongdoing or if they are seeking a temporary order for child custody or support. 

Additionally, the petitioner may be able to decide the county in which the divorce is filed, which can be necessary if the parties live in different counties. 

Ultimately, deciding whether to file for divorce first is a strategic decision that you should make after consulting with our attorney in Dutchess County, NY.

Comprehensive Legal Support for Divorce Matters

There are multiple reasons to hire a divorce attorney in Poughkeepsie. They can significantly help you handle your most complex of family law issues, such as:

  • Asset division
  • Spousal support
  • They can also provide consistent and knowledgeable communication about your case
  • Personalized representation that focuses on your specific needs
  • Overwhelmed by paperwork and excess documents? An attorney can handle those too.

Contact Our Poughkeepsie Divorce Lawyers Today

Our Divorce Lawyers Serving Poughkeepsie Intend to Save You Both Time and Money, Call Today for a Consultation and Let Us Do the Fighting for You!

  • “I have had the absolute best experience with this law firm” - Jessemine
  • “Steve's professionalism, experience, confidence, compassion, honesty and strength are beyond comparison, my gratitude and respect is endless.” - Jason F.
  • “Not only was I impressed by his attention to every detail, but I was truly comforted by his compassion.” - Sheila

    Does NY Have Grounds for Divorce?

    In NY state, we do not have specific that you must have grounds for divorce before you can file your divorce case. However, the basic definition of “grounds for divorce” refers to the reason that the marriage has ended. 

    Therefore, you would only need to state that the marriage has broken down to the point where you and your spouse can no longer continue as a married couple.

    The only other requirement to file for divorce is that you or your spouse must have been NY State residents for two years. This residency requirement can also be fulfilled if you were living continuously in the state, your marriage took place, and you have been living together as a couple. 

    Or, you can fulfill the requirement if you were both residents on the same day your divorce was filed and the marriage’s breakdown occurred while you were in NY state.

    How Can a Poughkeepsie Family Law Lawyer Help Me?

    When the fundamental well-being of your family is weighing in the balance, you can’t afford to take chances. Hiring one of our award-winning attorneys provides a team that has handled more than 2, 500 cases

    Divorce is a stressful procedure. Let us take that burden off your shoulders. It is highly recommended that you consult with a divorce attorney in Poughkeepsie to strategically construct a plan that would work with your goals and best interests.

    Does It Matter Who Files for Divorce First in NY?

    Generally, it does not matter who files for divorce first in New York. The party who files for divorce is known as the "petitioner," and the other party is known as the "respondent." The court will treat both parties equally regardless of who files first. 

    However, there are some potential advantages to filing for divorce first. For example, the petitioner may be able to present evidence of the respondent's wrongdoing or if they are seeking a temporary order for child custody or support. 

    Additionally, the petitioner may be able to decide the county in which the divorce is filed, which can be necessary if the parties live in different counties. 

    Ultimately, deciding whether to file for divorce first is a strategic decision that you should make after consulting with our attorney in Dutchess County, NY.

    There are multiple reasons to hire a divorce attorney in Poughkeepsie. They can significantly help you handle your most complex of family law issues, such as:

    • Asset division
    • Spousal support
    • They can also provide consistent and knowledgeable communication about your case
    • Personalized representation that focuses on your specific needs
    • Overwhelmed by paperwork and excess documents? An attorney can handle those too.

    Our Divorce Lawyers Serving Poughkeepsie Intend to Save You Both Time and Money, Call Today for a Consultation and Let Us Do the Fighting for You!


    Poughkeepsie Divorce Attorneys Navigating Complex Divorce Issues

    As divorce lawyers in Dutchess County, NY, we understand that the dissolution of a marriage can be fraught with distressing emotions for various reasons. Financial concerns compound that distress. 

    In addition, when minor children are involved, their welfare becomes of primary importance.

    With so many interests to keep in mind, it's understandable that you may feel overwhelmed and need a strong advocate who has a clear sense. So, our family law lawyers are here if you are concerned about losing considerable assets or real property or want to protect your parental legal rights.

    With more than 80 years of combined family law experience, our Poughkeepsie lawyers have built a solid reputation for our integrity, skillful negotiation, and aggressive legal representation of our clients' interests.

    Divorce is not fun, but it does not need to be complicated. For years, we have helped thousands of clients with their divorce or legal family issues. With that amount of legal experience, there is not much our lawyers have yet to see or hear. 

    Our NY lawyers serving Poughkeepsie and Dutchess County know the ins and outs of the divorce process. 


    Please Call Our Divorce Lawyers Serving Poughkeepsie, NY Today at (845) 203-2287 to Set Up a Free Consultation!


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