New York State Laws
Updated for 2026
New York Divorce Laws
Your complete guide to divorce in New York. Uses Child Support Standards Act (CSSA) for calculations.
Understanding New York Divorce Law
Property Division
New York follows Equitable Distribution.
Fair DivisionGrounds for Divorce
No-Fault: Irretrievable breakdown for 6+ months
Fault or No-FaultChild Custody
Courts use best interests standard with multiple factors.
Best InterestsChild Support
Uses Child Support Standards Act (CSSA).
CSSA GuidelinesChild Custody Factors
1
Quality of home environment
2
Parental guidance and abilities
3
Mental and physical health of parents
4
Presence of domestic violence
5
Work schedules of parents
6
Childs preference (if mature)
7
Each parents willingness to foster relationship with other parent
8
Stability of each parents home
9
Substance abuse issues
10
Any other relevant factors
Spousal Maintenance
Temporary Maintenance
Pendente lite during proceedings
Post-Divorce Maintenance
After divorce finalized
Durational Maintenance
Based on marriage length
Key Statutes
DRL 170
Grounds for Divorce
Irretrievable breakdown
DRL 236B
Property Division
Equitable distribution
DRL 240
Child Custody
Best interests standard
Recent Changes
2024
Maintenance Guidelines Update
New York updated maintenance calculation formulas.
Ready to Navigate Your New York Divorce?
Get expert guidance tailored to New York divorce laws.
All 50 States Covered
Legal Expert Reviewed