About Law Offices of Dan O’Phelan LLC — Family Law New York

The Law Offices of Dan O’Phelan LLC handles family law New York divorcing spouses and Manhattan families turn to for divorce, custody, child support, and equitable distribution. The firm files in the New York County Supreme Court — Matrimonial Part at 60 Centre Street, where the city’s busiest matrimonial docket runs daily. Because New York is one of only a handful of states without legal separation, every dissolution requires a full divorce filing rather than a separate-maintenance order.

The Manhattan matrimonial calendar moves on rigid scheduling rules, and procedural detail often shapes outcomes more than substantive arguments. For nearby comparisons, the New York attorney directory lists additional firms. However, many clients prefer a solo matrimonial practice because the same attorney handles every preliminary conference, compliance conference, and trial appearance from start to finish.

What Clients Say

Reviewers of Manhattan family practitioners commonly mention three things: same-day return calls, clear walkthroughs of New York’s equitable-distribution rules, and steady advocacy at preliminary conferences. Therefore, expect the first conversation to focus on the family’s financial picture, the children’s schedules, and any existing court orders.

Family Law New York — Practice Areas & Services

• Contested and uncontested divorce filings under DRL § 170
• Child custody, visitation, and parenting plans for New York County families
• Child support and spousal maintenance orders under New York’s CSSA and DRL § 236
• Equitable distribution of marital property, including pensions and retirement accounts
• Pre- and postnuptial agreements and modifications of existing orders

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a New York divorce take?

Most uncontested New York divorces close in 3–6 months once paperwork is complete. Contested cases with custody or property disputes typically run 12–24 months under the Matrimonial Part’s case management plan. New York’s irretrievable-breakdown ground requires a six-month showing before judgment.

What does a Manhattan family law attorney charge?

Most Manhattan matrimonial firms bill $400–$700 per hour, with retainers of $7,500–$25,000 common before contested litigation. Uncontested divorces often run on a flat fee. Always ask for a written engagement letter that lists what is and is not included.

Where will my New York County divorce be heard?

Manhattan divorces are filed in the New York County Supreme Court — Matrimonial Part at 60 Centre Street. Custody and visitation matters for unmarried parents move through New York County Family Court at 60 Lafayette Street. Contested cases pass through preliminary, compliance, and pretrial conferences.