New No-Fault Divorce Law in New York State
Until recently, New York was the only state left that did not offer a no-fault divorce option. This meant that, if a couple wished to end a marriage, one spouse had to claim a reason—and the options for doing so were limited. Causes for divorce were restricted to harsh ones such as mental cruelty inflicted by one spouse, or adultery. The need to blame the other spouse in order to obtain a divorce placed a great burden on married partners.
New York State no-fault divorce law
Often in the past, the real reasons couples divorced had nothing to do with the ones set forth for legal purposes. Couples were obligated to choose from among a limited set of reasons. Even if the spouses in Buffalo wanted an uncontested divorce—in which they agreed to the terms of separation—they would have to list a reason for doing so, and this could exacerbate ill feelings and cause unnecessary emotional hardship.
Now, couples no longer have to have a reason or grounds for a divorce in Buffalo and the rest of New York State. Governor Paterson signed leglisation (A.9753A/S.3890) which is now effective that allows couples to file for divorce without having to state grounds.
The impact on families and individuals seeking an uncontested divorce
The governor expects this recent reform to have a positive impact on couples seeking an uncontested divorce in Buffalo and elsewhere in the state. It will undoubtedly produce less tension and stress for the couple, as no-fault divorce lends itself to amicable solutions. Now that one spouse does not have to make negative accusations about the other in order to end the marriage, the entire process should become less contentious.
The new legislation applies to matrimonial actions commenced on or after October 14th, 2010.
If you have questions regarding these or other recent changes to New York divorce law, discuss your case with Venzon Law Firm, P.C.
Contact our divorce lawyers today
A Buffalo divorce lawyer from Venzon Law Firm, P.C. can provide cost-effective solutions for any of your family law matters. Call us at (716) 650-4740 or complete our web form to arrange for a free preliminary discussion about divorce, separation, and child-related custody issues. We are conveniently located in Buffalo, and we manage family law cases throughout Western New York.
