Spousal Support Lawyer in New York

New York Family Court Attorney

Are you dealing with a legal issue related to spousal support? Whether you are seeking support or are interested in contesting a petition for support that was filed against you, an experienced New York Family Court lawyer at our law offices may be able to assist you. We offer dedicated and personalized legal experience to clients throughout all five boroughs in New York City in all matters related to Family Court hearings, petitions and appeals.

Family Court Proceedings for Spousal Support

If you are currently married, you may be able to file a petition with your local Family Court to seek spousal support from your current spouse. You may also petition the Family Court to modify an existing spousal support order. If you are divorced, however, you cannot seek a new spousal support order in New York Family Court. The state Supreme Court handles divorces and would therefore address that matter.

Spousal support cases heard in New York Family Court are held in front of a support magistrate, a lower level judge. To initiate these proceedings, you must first file a petition for spousal support or a petition for the modification of support. You will need to go to the courthouse to file this petition, which is done with the assistance of the clerk. Once you properly file your petition, you will need to make sure it is served on the respondent (the person you are seeking support from). A hearing will then be held in front of the support magistrate, who will hear all evidence regarding each party’s income and expenses, may hear witness testimony and will then decide whether spousal support will be ordered, in what amount and for how long.

If one of the parties is not satisfied with the outcome of the Family Court hearing, they may file an appeal to have the case reviewed and possibly modified or overturned.

Make sure you have experienced legal counsel in your spousal support case to ensure that your financial situation is properly presented to the magistrate. Contact a New York Family Court Attorney at our law firm today.