Staten Island Divorce Lawyer Near You – Soren Law Group
Top-Rated Divorce Attorney Near Me Staten Island, NY – Compassionate Legal Support You Can Trust
When you’re going through a divorce, it can feel like everything is up in the air. At Soren Law Group, we understand how emotional and stressful this time can be. If you’re searching for a trusted divorce attorney near you in Staten Island, we’re here to help.
We listen, explain your options in plain terms, and walk with you step-by-step. Whether you need help with child custody, spousal support, or an uncontested divorce in Staten Island, we work hard to protect your rights and make the process as smooth as possible.
Our team has years of experience as a local family law firm helping real people in Richmond County. If you need an affordable and one of the best divorce lawyers near me, we’re ready. Call us today and let’s talk about your situation. We’re always on your side.
Frequently Asked Questions
At Soren Law Group, we understand that cost is a significant concern when considering a divorce. In Staten Island, the cost of hiring a divorce lawyer can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of your case and the attorney’s experience.
- Hourly Rates: Most divorce attorneys charge between $200 and $500 per hour.
- Flat Fees: Some lawyers offer flat fees ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for uncontested divorces, depending on the services included.
- Additional Costs: Court filing fees in New York are at least $335, which does not include costs for photocopies, notary fees, or process server fees.
We strive to provide transparent pricing and will discuss all potential costs during your initial consultation.
An uncontested divorce is when both spouses agree on all major issues, such as property division, child custody, and support. The process in Staten Island typically involves the following steps:
- Filing: Submit the necessary divorce forms to the County Clerk’s Office.
- Serving the Defendant: Deliver the divorce papers to your spouse, ensuring proper legal service.
- Response: Your spouse can agree by signing an “Affidavit of Defendant” or choose not to respond, which may result in a default judgment.
- Calendaring: File additional required documents, such as the “Note of Issue,” to place your case on the court’s calendar.
- Judgment: If all paperwork is in order, the judge will sign the Judgment of Divorce, finalizing the process.
While it’s possible to handle an uncontested divorce without a lawyer, having legal guidance can ensure all procedures are correctly followed.
Legal separation in New York involves creating a Separation Agreement, a written contract between spouses outlining the terms of their separation. Here’s how to proceed in Staten Island:
- Drafting the Agreement: Both spouses must voluntarily agree on terms, including living arrangements, division of assets, child custody, and support.
- Notarization: Both parties must sign the agreement in the presence of a notary public.
- Filing (Optional): You may file the notarized agreement with the County Clerk’s Office, which can be beneficial if you later decide to convert the separation into a divorce.
It’s advisable to consult with an attorney to ensure the agreement is fair and legally sound.
Obtaining an Order of Protection can help ensure your safety if you’re facing threats or abuse. In Staten Island, the process involves:
- Filing a Petition: Visit the Family Court to file a Family Offense Petition detailing the incidents of abuse or threats.
- Temporary Order: A judge may issue a Temporary Order of Protection the same day, providing immediate relief.
- Serving the Order: The respondent (the person you’re seeking protection from) must be served with the order and notice of the hearing.
- Court Hearing: Both parties attend a hearing where the judge decides whether to issue a Final Order of Protection, which can last up to two years or longer under certain conditions.
It’s recommended to have legal representation during this process to ensure your rights are protected.
In New York, child support is calculated based on the combined income of both parents and the number of children, following the Child Support Standards Act (CSSA). The basic formula is:
- 17% for one child
- 25% for two children
- 29% for three children
- 31% for four children
- 35% for five or more children
To determine each parent’s share:
- Calculate Combined Income: Add both parents’ gross incomes.
- Determine Each Parent’s Pro Rata Share: Divide each parent’s income by the combined total to find their percentage share.
- Apply the Percentage: Multiply the combined income by the appropriate percentage based on the number of children.
- Allocate Support: Each parent contributes according to their pro rata share.
Additional factors like healthcare, education, and childcare expenses may also be considered.
For an estimate, you can use the New York Child Support Calculator.
Full-Service Family Law Firm in Richmond County – Best Divorce Lawyers Near Me
At Soren Law Group, we cover every part of family law—from divorce mediation and legal separation to child custody, child support, and more. As a trusted family law firm in Staten Island, our goal is to make sure your voice is heard and your needs are met. We’re ready to support you when you need the best divorce lawyers near you.
Sometimes, the best way to move forward is through calm, respectful conversation. Our divorce mediation service in Staten Island helps couples settle things outside of court. We guide both sides in making fair property, custody, and support decisions. Mediation can save time, reduce stress, and help keep the peace—especially if kids are involved. If you’re searching for Staten Island divorce mediation or want to avoid long court battles, we’ll help you work things out.
When it comes to your children, nothing is more important. As a child custody lawyer near you, we help parents create safe, stable arrangements that focus on the child’s best interests. Whether you’re dealing with shared custody, visitation rights, or tough disputes, our Staten Island child custody attorneys will stand by you. We explain everything clearly and fight for what matters most—your kids.
Making sure your child is cared for financially matters. Our child support lawyers in Staten Island help parents understand how support is calculated and what you’re entitled to. Whether you’re paying or receiving support, we help set fair terms based on your child’s needs. Looking for a child support lawyer near me? We’ve got your back.
If you’re looking to settle your divorce without the stress of court, collaborative law may be a good fit. This process allows both sides to work with their own lawyers and other professionals to reach an agreement. As experienced collaborative divorce attorneys, we guide you through open, respectful talks to find solutions that work for your whole family.
Planning ahead doesn’t mean expecting the worst but protecting your future. We help couples in Staten Island create clear, fair prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. Whether you’re getting married or already are, these legal agreements can help avoid stress later. Let us help you prepare with confidence.
Life changes. If you’ve lost a job, had a raise, or your child’s needs have shifted, your child support order may need an update. We assist Staten Island parents in seeking or contesting child support modifications that reflect today’s reality. We’ll guide you through the paperwork and the court process.
Every parent deserves a chance to be part of their child’s life. We help families set up fair, workable child visitation plans. Whether you’re seeking more time or dealing with someone not following the schedule, our child visitation lawyers in Staten Island will stand up for your rights and help you stay connected.
Not every couple wants a divorce. If you’re not ready to legally end your marriage but need to live separately, we can help. As a legal separation lawyer in Staten Island, we help couples protect their rights and make clear decisions about money, kids, and property during a separation.
We help mothers and fathers with legal paternity issues in Staten Island. Whether you need to prove paternity for child support or gain visitation rights, our paternity lawyers are here to help. We handle each case with care and work to protect the rights of both the parent and the child.
Moving with a child after divorce or separation can be tricky. Whether you’re looking to relocate or object to a move, we’ll help you understand your rights. Our firm works with relocation cases in Staten Island, making sure the child’s best interests come first and your voice is heard in court.
Your Local Family Lawyer Near Me – Personalized Legal Support
At Soren Law Group, we treat your family like our own. As a trusted family law attorney in Staten Island, we’re here when you need clear answers and steady support. Whether you’re looking for help with a divorce, custody issue, or legal separation, we listen first and guide you forward. No cookie-cutter answers—just honest legal help you can count on. If you’ve been searching for a family lawyer near me who truly cares, give us a call.
Experienced Trial Attorney for Family Court in New York
When your case needs to go to court, you need someone who knows the system inside and out. We’ve spent years handling cases in New York family court and are ready to stand with you. Whether it’s divorce, custody, or support, we explain the process and fight for your rights in court. We’re experienced, calm under pressure, and fully prepared. From start to finish, we’re the trial attorney Staten Island residents trust when things get tough.
Schedule a Consultation With a Divorce Attorney Near You on Staten Island, New York
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, talking to someone who understands can make all the difference. At Soren Law Group, we offer consultations so you can ask questions, understand your options, and feel supported. Whether you’re dealing with divorce, custody, or support issues, we’re here to help.
Looking for the best divorce lawyer near you in Staten Island? Call us at (718) 815-4500 or visit our website to fill out our contact form. We also provide help during legal emergencies—because life doesn’t always wait. Let’s talk today. You don’t have to face this alone.
About Staten Island, New York, United States
A Quiet Borough with Rich History
Staten Island, one of New York City’s five boroughs, offers a suburban atmosphere with a deep-rooted history. Known for its green spaces and maritime heritage, the island is home to landmarks like the Staten Island Ferry and Fort Wadsworth. The borough’s development accelerated after the opening of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in 1964, connecting it to Brooklyn and fostering growth.
Education and Living Costs
Staten Island boasts a mix of public and private educational institutions, including the College of Staten Island. While the cost of living is higher than the national average, it remains more affordable compared to Manhattan and Brooklyn. The median home price is approximately $650,000, making it appealing for those seeking budget-friendly housing within NYC.
Nearby Places to Visit on Staten Island, NY
- Staten Island Zoo – A family-friendly destination featuring diverse animal exhibits and educational programs.
- Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden – An 83-acre site housing museums, gardens, and historical buildings, offering cultural and recreational experiences.
- Staten Island Museum – The oldest cultural institution in the borough, showcasing art, natural science, and local history
- Staten Island Greenbelt – A vast network of parks and trails, perfect for hiking, biking, and nature observation.
- Fort Wadsworth – One of the oldest military installations in the U.S., offering panoramic views of New York Harbor.
- Alice Austen House Museum – A historic house museum dedicated to the pioneering photographer Alice Austen, featuring exhibits and waterfront views.
- Staten Island Ferry – A free ferry service providing stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.
- Staten Island Children’s Museum – An interactive museum offering hands-on exhibits designed to engage young minds.
- National Lighthouse Museum – A museum dedicated to preserving the history of lighthouses and their keepers is located near the ferry terminal.
- Staten Island Greenbelt Nature Center – An educational facility providing information about the local ecosystem and hosting various programs.
Staten Island offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and rich cultural heritage. With its array of parks, museums, and historical sites, the borough provides residents and visitors alike with a diverse and enriching experience.
