At Maura Barrett Law, we tailor solutions to each client’s needs. We take the time to learn about you so we can understand what you want out of the process. We start with the story of your relationship. We continue with your concerns and plans for the future. Then, we develop a divorce strategy that helps you reach your goals by addressing all of the issues that may affect you, such as:
The traditional way to get divorced involves the spouses taking sides against each other in litigation. Maura Barrett has over 30 years of experience handling contentious court cases for clients, and she will not hesitate to do so for you if it is necessary.
In a divorce, issues of property division can cause significant conflict. At Maura Barrett Law, our goal is to protect our clients’ interests while navigating the issues. Located in the Arlington area of the town of Poughkeepsie for over 30 years, Maura will use her in-depth knowledge and experience to guide you through the process whether negotiated or ligated. Known for her direct but compassionate approach Maura is passionate about what she does.
With more than 30 years of experience, Maura has built a reputation for effective and compassionate legal representation for families throughout the Hudson Valley. At our town of Poughkeepsie law office, we understand that a divorce can be a difficult and emotional time. However, we also know that it is a time when serious decisions must be made. It is our job to protect your interests and help you make informed decisions.
Effective October 12, 2010, New York state has added “irretrievable breakdown of marriage” for a period of at least six months as a new ground for divorce, effectively permitting no-fault divorce as an additional ground for divorce in New York. This additional ground allows one spouse to unilaterally conclude that they want to walk out of the marriage. The “fault” grounds also continue, including adultery, abandonment, or cruel and inhuman treatment.
At Maura Barrett Law, we understand that marriages deteriorate for many reasons – sometimes for the “at-fault” reasons and sometimes because couples just grow apart. If they do, and if they wish to resolve their issues without going to court, or wish to avoid placing blame where it does not belong, they may consider entering into a separation agreement.
Separation agreements are complex documents that deal with all the issues related to the demise of a marriage. They address child custody, division of property and support matters. Couples enter into this agreement and live apart. After a minimum of one year has passed, a divorce may be granted on the ground that the couple has been living separately.
As of October 12, 2010, divorcing couples may also use the additional ground of irretrievable breakdown of the marriage for a period of at least six months as long as all other issues have been resolved, including equitable distribution, spousal support, child support, custody, visitation, and counsel and expert fees.
Separation agreements should not be confused with postnuptial agreements. Postnuptial agreements serve as a condition to remaining married, where couples lay out their respective rights and responsibilities with the understanding that they are continuing with their marriage. Separation agreements resolve all of a separating couple’s issues without resorting to court intervention, and then either party to the agreement may then proceed to seek a divorce.
When you are looking to do what is best for you and your children, let our team help you secure the best possible outcome for everyone. Contact our office in the town of Poughkeepsie by emailing us here or calling 845-486-4300. Schedule your initial consultation today and begin planning to navigate your divorce today.
New York allows both “no-fault” divorce (irretrievable breakdown of marriage for six months) and fault-based grounds such as adultery, cruelty, or abandonment.
It’s a legally binding contract that outlines property division, custody, and support terms while the spouses live apart. After a year, it can serve as grounds for divorce.
An uncontested divorce means both parties agree on all terms. Contested divorces require court involvement to settle disputes over finances, custody, or other issues.
Not necessarily. Many couples resolve issues through negotiation, mediation, or collaborative divorce without ever going before a judge.
It depends on the level of cooperation. Uncontested cases may finalize within a few months, while contested ones can take a year or more.
New York uses “equitable distribution,” meaning property is divided fairly, though not always equally, based on various factors like income, contributions, and future needs.
Yes, but modifications typically require proof of a significant change in circumstances, especially in areas like child support or custody.
Our approach prioritizes minimizing emotional harm and fostering cooperation. We help clients design parenting plans that support children’s stability and well-being.
Divorce is never easy—but you don’t have to face it alone. Our attorneys offer personalized strategies that protect what matters most to you..
