Divorce
Divorces can be messy, painful affairs that drag on for years. It is important to obtain an experienced lawyer to guide you through the divorce process from start to finish.
Grounds for divorce in New York
One of the first steps for filing for divorce is establishing grounds—a legal reason to dissolve your marriage. New York is the only state that does not recognize irreconcilable differences as grounds for divorce. Acceptable grounds for divorce in New York and Connecticut are:
- Cruel and inhuman treatment
- Abandonment for at least one year
- Imprisonment for at least three consecutive years once married
- Adultery
- Conversion of a separation agreement after one year
- Conversion of a judgment of separation after one year
Residency requirements to file for divorce in New York
To file for divorce in New York, you must satisfy at least one of these residency requirements:
- The marriage ceremony was performed in New York State and either spouse is a resident of the state at the time of the commencement of the action for divorce and resided in the state for a continuous period of one year immediately before the action began; OR
- The couple lived as husband and wife in New York State and either spouse is a resident of the state at the time of the commencement of the action for divorce and resided in this state for a continuous period of one year immediately before the action began; OR
- The grounds for divorce occurred in New York State and either spouse is a resident of the state at the time of the commencement of the action for divorce and resided in this state for a continuous period of one year immediately before the action began; OR
- The grounds for divorce occurred in New York State and both spouses are New York residents at the time the action is commenced; OR
- If you and your spouse were married outside of New York State and you never lived together as husband and wife in this state and the grounds for divorce did not occur in this state -- either you or your spouse must presently be a resident of New York State and have resided continuously in the state for at least two years prior to bringing this action for divorce.
Douglas Stone works for you
Located in New Rochelle, New York, attorney Douglas Stone is a lawyer who understands the nuances of divorce law in New York and Connecticut. He is committed to helping his clients finalize divorces quickly and discreetly, so you can begin to rebuild your life. When representing clients in divorce matters, Mr. Stone examines all aspects of your case, including:
- Child custody rights
- Child visitation
- Child support payments
- Property division (equitable distribution law in New York)
- Spousal support (also known as alimony and spousal maintenance)
- Name changes
- Separation agreements
If you are located in New Rochelle or its surrounding areas, including the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Rockland County, Long Island, Westchester, and Fairfield County contact our office today to arrange a consultation with Mr. Stone about your divorce.

Mr. Stone represents securities and immigration clients nationally and employment and family law clients in New York, including New Rochelle, White Plains, Larchmont, Scarsdale, Bronxville, Pelham, Mount Vernon, Harrison, Purchase, the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Connecticut.
