Buffalo Divorce Attorneys

How to File for Divorce in Buffalo, NY

Steps to filing for divorce in Buffalo are explained by the Buffalo divorce attorneys at the Venzon Law Firm to help clients understand how to legally file for divorce to dissolve a marriage. You have made the decision to file for divorce from your spouse, and now it is time to meet with a divorce lawyer to review your case and start the paperwork to present to the court.

The first step for clients new to the Venzon Law Firm is to complete our Client Intake Sheet. This consultation form asks for information such as personal and employment information for you and your spouse; your children’s names and ages; a description of property you both own such as real estate and motor vehicles; and an order of protection if you have one. You will need other information later on such as financial statements, tax returns, etc.

Determining Grounds for Divorce in New York

At the initial meeting with a divorce lawyer, you will have to state why you are seeking a divorce. Is the divorce because of grounds of adultery, mental cruelty, abandonment, or because your spouse is mentally ill or has been convicted of a crime? If you are divorcing because of one of these reasons, you will need to present proof to the court. If both you and your spouse are seeking an amicable resolution, a separation agreement can be prepared and after you have lived separately for one year or more you can seek divorce. You will need to agree on custody, visitation, spousal support, and property division in a no fault divorce. Residency Requirement to file for divorce in New York, you must meet one of the following residency requirements:

• You or your spouse must be a New York State resident for at least two years
• The grounds for divorce occurred in New York
• You and your spouse reside in New York
• You and your spouse have lived in New York for the preceding year
• You and your spouse were married in New York
• You and your spouse lived in New York while you were married.

Filing For Divorce in Buffalo

If you have determined the grounds for divorce and meet the residency requirement, your divorce attorney will file divorce paperwork in court. If your spouse contests the divorce, you will be required to appear in court. If your spouse agrees to the divorce, you may be granted an uncontested divorce. Once you and your spouse have agreed on the child-related and financial issues, an agreement is drafted by your lawyer and sent to other party for approval.

Call the Venzon Law Firm

The steps involved in divorce can be complicated if you are working without the help of an experienced and knowledgeable Buffalo divorce lawyer. Call the Venzon Law Firm in Buffalo if you need advice on beginning the divorce process or if you have been served divorce papers. We can be reached at 716-462-6585, or through our quick contact web form. Our divorce law firm offers preliminary consultations to discuss your situation.