Divorce in New York
Whether you’ve been thinking about divorce for a long time, or you’re just beginning to explore your options, you’re in the right place. Divorces in New York are common, and the state makes it easy for couples to handle the process alone. But you will need to understand how it works to protect your assets and your future.
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Important Information About Divorce in New York
Filing for divorce in New York State is relatively simple, but actually getting divorced requires a long list of forms. But no need to get overwhelmed – we explain all the steps to you and our Divorce Navigator software guides you through all the forms. If you get stuck, we can help. To get started, check out some of our most helpful resources for divorce in the state of New York.
While no online divorce option exists, you can collaborate with your partner and skip the courtroom. But if you enter a contested divorce, you'll need a lawyer and some added help.
At the end of the process, you're single again. If that's too hard to contemplate in the short term, you can use legal separation to stay married but remain in separate households. Some people use this time to determine if they want to move forward with a divorce.
New York Marriage & Divorce Laws
You're not required to find fault with your partner to obtain a New York divorce. You can cite irreconcilable differences as your grounds for divorce, and your case can move forward. Prenuptial agreements can help smooth the distribution of your community property, but if you can't agree, a lawyer can help you sort out the situation.
Finances & Property
Divorces involve splitting your assets between two parties. New York is an equitable property state, meaning that assets you acquire during your marriage should be split fairly and equitably.
But you have other financial issues to work out during your marriage too. And sometimes, these conversations can be both complicated and emotional.
Guide to alimony
Spousal support, or alimony, means one party pays the other after the marriage is over. Couples can determine these terms during the divorce, or the court will decide for you.
Other important topics about divorce in New York
Just as every couple is different, so is every divorce. Some couples can use a checklist and conduct their own DIY divorce through the New York court system. Others, including people with partners in the military, must follow more rules. Find other key resources and links to some other important information for divorce in New York below.