Buffalo Divorce Law Firm
Serving Western New York
over a Quarter of a Century

Divorce, Separation and Family Law Lawyers in Buffalo

The Buffalo family law attorneys of the Venzon Law Firm advise you, negotiate on your behalf, and fight in court for a successful outcome in your case.  Filing for divorce can be one of the most difficult decisions a couple will face.

There are many grounds for divorce and ways to end a relationship in New York, and some couples may also decide to file for a legal separation. In cases where a split might be considered amicable, spouses also are able to contract the terms through negotiation which protects your rights, unlike mediation.

Grounds for divorce

A divorce is not automatically granted in New York. We must show that you have grounds for the divorce. A no-fault divorce may be granted after one year of living apart under a separation agreement. Other grounds for divorce are considered the fault of one of the parties:

• Adultery
• Cruel and inhuman treatment
• Abandonment for one or more years
• Imprisonment for three or more years

Venzon Law Firm works hard to prove your grounds to the court so your divorce moves forward as swiftly as possible.

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 716-462-6585, or complete our quick contact web form.