Buffalo & Western New York Matrimonial and Family Law Firm
Divorce, Separation and Family Law Lawyers in Buffalo
The Buffalo & Western New York Matrimonial and Family Law office of Venzon Law Firm will advise you, negotiate and if necessary prepare your case for a successful outcome at trial if your matter cannot be settled. We understand that filing for divorce can be one of the most difficult decisions a couple will face.
No Fault Divorce
New York’s Governor signed a no fault divorce bill on August 15, 2010. This law went into effect in the fall of 2010 and allows for a marriage to be dissolved by virtue of irretrievable breakdown. This changed the previous law in New York State that required couples-absent a separation agreement or other limited reasons-to assign blame to the other and to have to accuse the other party of “cruel and inhuman treatment” Prior to this there were only limited reasons that courts were allowed to grant divorces but this new law allows for couples to move forward without assigning blame.
Venzon Law Firm works with you to move past the issue of assigning fault in your marriage and then focuses on the remaining custodial and financial issues.
Division of marital property
Marital property means all property acquired during the marriage. The court encourages the parties to agree on the distribution of property. If there is no agreement, the court distributes the property based on factors including:
- Income and property of each party
- Age and health of parties
- Need of a custodial parent to occupy the marital residence
- Likely future financial circumstances
- Tax consequences
- Wasteful spending history
Separate property includes all property acquired before the marriage, as well as:
- Inheritance
- Gifts from third persons
- Compensation for personal injuries
- Property acquired after the start of an action for divorce
Venzon Law Firm helps you defend your right to retain your separate property, and negotiates to get you a fair share of the marital property.
Spousal support
The court may instruct one party to pay the other. The factors that the court considers are similar to the ones used in determining division of marital property, as well as:
- The present and future earning capacity of both parties
- Contributions of one party to the career potential of the other
- The presence of children of the marriage in the homes of the parties
Venzon Law Firm takes a stand to ensure that you receive the support that you require—or that you are not asked to provide support beyond your means.
Child custody & child support
Child custody and child support are often the most difficult part of your divorce. These issues are usually decided within your divorce action, but sometimes they may be initiated or modified in family court. Learn more about the New York custody laws in our Family Court Section
Let us help you "live happily ever after"
Our attorneys have a thorough understanding of New York law. We have the experience to get you back on your feet and ready to move on with your life. To inquire about our law practice, contact the Buffalo divorce lawyers at Venzon Law Firm at no cost at (716) 650-4740, or complete our quick contact web form.
