Divorce is one of the most challenging and emotional legal journeys anyone can go through. In a complex legal environment like New York, the stakes are especially high—whether you’re navigating child custody, property division, spousal maintenance, or a high-net-worth split. Having a top-rated divorce lawyer in New York can mean the difference between a clean break and a chaotic legal battle.
In this guide, we rank the best divorce attorneys in NYC for 2025, based on courtroom reputation, client satisfaction, fee transparency, and results. Whether you're in Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Queens, these family law experts are equipped to protect your rights and your future.
⚖️ Why Hire a Specialized Divorce Attorney in NYC?
New York divorce law is intricate. Fault and no-fault options, equitable distribution, and parenting plans all require legal precision. A top New York divorce lawyer can help you:
- ✅ Secure a favorable custody or visitation arrangement
- ✅ Protect assets, investments, and property
- ✅ Negotiate or fight for fair alimony and child support
- ✅ Manage high-conflict divorce or domestic violence situations
🏆 Top Divorce Lawyers in New York (2025 Rankings)
1. Raoul Felder – The Felder Firm
Known as “the Duke of Divorce,” Raoul Felder has represented celebrities, politicians, and high-net-worth individuals in some of the most publicized divorces in NYC history.
- ✔️ Specialty: High-asset divorce, celebrity cases
- ✔️ Location: Manhattan
- ✔️ Years in Practice: 40+
2. Lisa Zeiderman – Miller Zeiderman LLP
A financial-savvy litigator, Lisa Zeiderman is known for protecting clients with significant business or investment assets.
- ✔️ Strengths: Complex asset valuation, forensic accounting
- ✔️ Location: White Plains, Manhattan
3. Faith Miller – Miller Law Group
Faith Miller’s firm is well-regarded for handling collaborative divorces, LGBTQ+ family law, and amicable separations without sacrificing client protection.
- ✔️ Specialty: Mediation, same-sex divorce, child custody
- ✔️ Office: Brooklyn and Manhattan
4. Robert Wallack – The Wallack Firm
A fierce litigator in court, Robert Wallack is often chosen for high-conflict cases involving infidelity, abuse allegations, or contested custody.
- ✔️ Notable for: Trial expertise, aggressive advocacy
- ✔️ Location: Midtown Manhattan
5. Chaim Steinberger – Law & Mediation Offices
Chaim Steinberger is known for helping high-conflict couples resolve disputes through constructive negotiation.
- ✔️ Focus: Mediation-first approach, parenting plans
- ✔️ Languages: English and Hebrew
📑 Types of Divorce Services in New York
- 🔸 No-Fault Divorce
- 🔸 Contested Divorce
- 🔸 Uncontested Divorce
- 🔸 Legal Separation Agreements
- 🔸 Child Custody & Parenting Schedules
- 🔸 Spousal Maintenance (Alimony)
- 🔸 Division of Property, Debts & Pensions
💼 How Much Does a Divorce Lawyer Cost in NYC?
Divorce lawyer fees in New York can vary depending on the complexity of the case:
- 💰 Uncontested Divorce: $1,500 – $4,000
- 💰 Contested Divorce: $10,000 – $50,000+
- 💰 High-Net-Worth or Custody Battles: $50,000 – $250,000+
❓ Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Divorce Lawyer
- ✅ Do you specialize in divorce and family law?
- ✅ What is your approach to conflict resolution?
- ✅ How do you charge—flat rate or hourly?
- ✅ Who in your office will handle my case?
- ✅ Have you worked on cases similar to mine?
📝 Filing for Divorce in New York: Step-by-Step
- 📄 Meet NY residency requirements (1–2 years)
- 📄 Choose fault or no-fault grounds
- 📄 File the divorce petition with NY County Clerk
- 📄 Serve the summons and complaint
- 📄 Engage in discovery and financial disclosure
- 📄 Attend mediation or trial
- 📄 Finalize the divorce decree in court
📊 Divorce in NYC: 2025 Statistics
- 📌 Over 30,000 divorces filed annually in New York State
- 📌 55% of NYC divorces involve children under 18
- 📌 Median divorce length: 8–14 months
🔍 Final Word: The Right Lawyer Means a Smoother Split
A divorce doesn’t have to be a disaster. With an experienced New York divorce lawyer by your side, you can protect your finances, your family, and your peace of mind. Whether you're aiming for a quick agreement or preparing for courtroom battle, choose an attorney who understands your priorities—and fights for them.
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