Divorce

Divorce cases don’t require a lawyer, but the Supreme Court is difficult to navigate without one. This matters if you’re fighting for divorce. You can hire a lawyer in several ways.

 
1. Contact your local legal services group. Some New York examples are Legal Aid Society, NYLAG, and LSNYC.
2. Your local Bar Association can assist you in choosing a lawyer. If you have limited income, a lawyer can aid for free. Please note that hiring a divorce lawyer takes time.
3. Remember that the court must provide a lawyer if your divorce involves child support, visitation, or an Order of Protection. Ask the judge for a free lawyer to assist with custody, visitation, or protection.
 
These steps can help you get a divorce without a fight if you don’t want to hire a lawyer: www.nycourts.gov/courthelp/Family/index.shtml. Find more information about divorce at www.nycourts.gov/courthelp/Family/divorce.shtml.
 
To get a hard copy, go to the Matrimonial Support Office at the Supreme Court in the borough where you live. Ask for the details and forms for an uncontested divorce.
 
Resources
Legal Information Guide about Divorce by HER JUSTICE
https://herjustice.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Divorce-2020.pdf
 
Updated on November 18, 2025