Divorce Lawyer Serving New York, Washington, D.C. & Maryland

Let An Experienced Lawyer Guide You Through The Divorce Process

Divorce can affect nearly every part of your life, from your relationship with your children and where you live to your finances, property and plans for the future.

Having an experienced divorce lawyer can help you understand your rights, identify the issues that matter most and make informed decisions before agreeing to terms that could affect you for years.

At The Law Offices of Jeffrey N. Markowicz, I represent individuals in divorce and matrimonial matters throughout New York, Washington, D.C., and Maryland. My practice includes contested and uncontested divorce, complex property division, high net worth divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, domestic violence matters and other family law disputes.

I have practiced law for more than 25 years and bring extensive courtroom and litigation experience to each matter. I work directly with my clients to understand their goals and develop a legal strategy tailored to their circumstances.

Whenever possible, my objective is to resolve disputes efficiently and reach a practical agreement. When litigation becomes necessary, I am prepared to advocate for my clients in court.

If you are considering divorce or have already been served with divorce papers, schedule a confidential consultation.

How I Can Help You With Your Divorce

Ending a marriage involves much more than obtaining a court order declaring that the marriage is over.

A divorce may require resolving questions involving:

• Division of marital property
• Separate or non-marital property
• Homes and investment real estate
• Businesses and professional practices
• Bank and investment accounts
• Retirement accounts and pensions
• Debts and financial obligations
• Spousal support or alimony
• Child custody
• Parenting time and visitation
• Child support
• Health insurance
• Tax considerations
• Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements

Some divorces can be resolved relatively quickly because the spouses agree on most or all major issues.

Others involve substantial disagreement, complicated assets, difficult custody disputes or extensive litigation.

I help my clients identify the issues that must be addressed, determine their priorities and evaluate both the immediate and long-term consequences of proposed divorce agreements.

Contested Divorce

A divorce becomes contested when spouses cannot agree on one or more significant issues.

Common disagreements involve:

• Child custody
• Parenting schedules
• Child support
• Alimony or spousal support
• Who remains in the marital home
• How property should be divided
• Whether an asset is marital or separate
• Business valuation
• Retirement accounts
• Responsibility for marital debt

A contested divorce does not necessarily mean the case will ultimately go to trial.

Negotiations can continue throughout the divorce process, and many contested matters eventually resolve through settlement.

However, I believe it is important to prepare a contested divorce as though litigation may be necessary.

My extensive litigation background allows me to pursue negotiated solutions while remaining prepared to advocate for my client’s position in court when the other party will not agree to reasonable terms.

Uncontested Divorce

An uncontested divorce generally occurs when both spouses can agree on the issues necessary to end their marriage.

This can include agreement regarding:

• Property division
• Debt
• Spousal support
• Child custody
• Parenting time
• Child support
• Other financial obligations

Even when spouses are cooperative, having an attorney review the proposed terms can be important.

A divorce agreement may determine financial responsibilities and parenting rights for years. An arrangement that appears straightforward today could create unintended problems later if important issues are overlooked.

I can help identify potential concerns, negotiate appropriate terms and prepare the necessary legal documents to move the divorce toward completion.

Divorce and Property Division

Property division is one of the most important financial components of many divorces.

Depending on the marriage, property may include:

• A marital residence
• Vacation homes
• Investment property
• Bank accounts
• Brokerage accounts
• Retirement plans
• Pensions
• Businesses
• Professional practices
• Vehicles
• Valuable personal property
• Stock options
• Restricted stock units
• Deferred compensation
• Cryptocurrency
• Intellectual property

Before property can be divided, it is often necessary to determine what property exists, what it is worth and whether it is considered marital or separate property under the law that applies to the case.

That can become significantly more complicated when assets were acquired at different stages of the marriage or when marital and separate funds were mixed.

I work with my clients to understand the complete financial picture before determining how to approach property division.

Marital Property vs. Separate Property

Not everything owned by either spouse is necessarily treated the same way in divorce.

An asset acquired during marriage may receive different treatment from property owned before the marriage, inherited property or certain gifts.

Complications can arise when separate and marital assets become mixed.

For example:

• A spouse owned a house before marriage, but marital funds were later used to pay the mortgage.
• One spouse entered the marriage owning a business that increased significantly in value.
• Inherited funds were deposited into a joint account.
• A premarital investment account received additional contributions during the marriage.
• Marital funds were used to improve separately owned property.

Financial records and asset tracing may become important when the classification of significant property is disputed.

High Net Worth Divorce

Divorces involving substantial wealth often require additional financial analysis.

A high net worth divorce may involve:

• Closely held companies
• Multiple properties
• Executive compensation
• Stock options and RSUs
• Investment portfolios
• Trust interests
• Professional practices
• Partnership interests
• Retirement assets
• Significant separate property
• Complex debt
• Assets located in multiple jurisdictions

Valuation and classification decisions involving these assets can substantially affect the final financial outcome of a divorce.

I represent clients in complex matrimonial matters and can coordinate with accountants, valuation professionals and other experts when appropriate.

Learn more about High Net Worth Divorce.

Business Owners Going Through Divorce

For business owners, divorce can create issues that extend beyond personal finances.

Questions may arise concerning:

• Whether the business is marital property
• The value of the company
• How ownership interests should be treated
• Income generated by the business
• Distributions and retained earnings
• Compensation paid to an owner
• Business debt
• Appreciation during the marriage
• Whether one spouse contributed to the company’s growth

A divorce settlement should also consider how financial obligations could affect the company’s continued operation.

In some cases, one spouse may retain the business while other marital assets address the other spouse’s financial interest.

Each situation requires an individualized analysis.

Divorce and Child Custody

For parents, decisions involving children are often more important than the financial issues in the divorce.

Custody cases may address both major decision-making responsibilities and how much time children spend with each parent.

Issues can include:

• Parenting schedules
• Holidays
• Vacations
• School decisions
• Medical decisions
• Religious upbringing
• Transportation
• Communication between parents
• Relocation
• Domestic or international travel

I work with parents to pursue custody arrangements that are practical, sustainable and responsive to the needs of their children.

When parents can agree, negotiated custody arrangements can give families greater control over the outcome.

When serious disagreements exist, I am prepared to litigate custody matters and advocate for my client’s parental rights.

Learn more about Child Support, Custody & Visitation.

Divorce and Child Support

Divorce does not end either parent’s responsibility to financially support their children.

Child support calculations may consider factors established by the applicable jurisdiction, including parental income and the children’s needs.

Higher-income families may also need to address expenses beyond basic support, such as:

• Childcare
• Medical expenses
• Health insurance
• Private school
• Camps
• Extracurricular activities
• Educational expenses
• Travel
• College-related costs

I represent both parents seeking child support and parents who may be required to pay support.

My goal is to establish an arrangement that complies with applicable law while accurately reflecting the family’s financial circumstances.

Alimony and Spousal Support

Spousal support can become a major financial issue in divorce, particularly when there is a substantial difference between the spouses’ incomes or earning capacity.

Depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances, relevant issues may include:

• Length of the marriage
• Income of each spouse
• Employment history
• Earning capacity
• Age and health
• Standard of living during the marriage
• Financial resources
• Property distribution
• Contributions made during the marriage

Cases involving business owners, executives and professionals can require additional analysis because actual income may involve bonuses, distributions, investment income, equity compensation or other forms of compensation beyond a regular paycheck.

I represent individuals on both sides of spousal support disputes.

Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements During Divorce

If you entered into a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement, that document could significantly affect the divorce.

An agreement may address:

• Property division
• Separate assets
• Business interests
• Real estate
• Debt
• Spousal support
• Inheritances
• Other financial rights

Review the agreement early in the process to determine how its provisions may affect negotiations or litigation.

I represent clients in matters involving the interpretation and application of marital agreements.

Learn more about Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements.

Domestic Violence and Divorce

Domestic violence can significantly change the way a divorce or custody case needs to be handled.

Safety may need to be addressed before financial or parenting negotiations can meaningfully proceed.

Depending on the circumstances, legal options may be available to address contact between the parties, access to the home, custody or other immediate concerns.

I have significant experience handling domestic violence matters in connection with family law cases.

If you or your children are in immediate danger, contact emergency services first.

Learn more about Domestic Violence.

Divorce Lawyer in New York

I have been licensed to practice law in New York since 2007 and represent clients in New York City and surrounding areas in divorce and matrimonial matters.

New York divorces can involve issues such as marital property, separate property, equitable distribution, maintenance, child custody and child support.

New York also distinguishes between contested and uncontested divorce. When spouses cannot resolve financial or parenting issues, those matters may need to be decided before the divorce can be finalized.

My New York office is located in Lower Manhattan at:

1 Liberty Street
Suite 2327
New York, NY 10006

New York: 917-791-4157

Whether you are facing a relatively straightforward divorce or a complicated matter involving substantial assets and contested custody issues, I can help you understand your options and build an appropriate strategy.

Divorce Lawyer in Washington, D.C.

I have been licensed in the District of Columbia since 2001 and have decades of experience handling family law and litigation matters in Washington.

A Washington, D.C. divorce may involve:

• Property division
• Alimony
• Child custody
• Child support
• Parenting time
• Marital agreements
• Other financial and family law issues

D.C. law does not require spouses to remain separated for a specific period before filing for divorce, although jurisdictional and residency requirements still apply.

My Washington office is located at:

700 12th Street NW
Suite 700
Washington, D.C. 20005

Washington, D.C.: 202-972-2701

I also represent clients from the Washington metropolitan area whose family law matters involve neighboring Maryland.

Divorce Lawyer in Maryland

I have been licensed to practice law in Maryland since 1999.

I represent Maryland clients in divorce and family law matters involving:

• Property division
• Child custody
• Child support
• Alimony
• Marital settlement agreements
• Domestic violence
• Complex financial issues

Maryland law currently recognizes grounds for divorce that include mutual consent, six-month separation and irreconcilable differences.

Because Maryland divorce laws differ in important respects from those of Washington, D.C. and New York, clients with connections to multiple jurisdictions should obtain advice regarding where and how their case should proceed.

My experience practicing in Maryland, Washington, D.C. and New York can be particularly valuable when spouses, children, property or businesses have connections to more than one jurisdiction.

Divorce Involving Multiple States or Jurisdictions

Modern families are increasingly mobile.

You may live in Washington while your spouse lives in Maryland. You may own a residence in New York and another property elsewhere. Your children may have recently moved between jurisdictions.

These circumstances can create important questions involving:

• Where a divorce can be filed
• Which state’s law applies
• Which court has jurisdiction over child custody
• Where property is located
• Enforcement of existing orders
• Relocation
• Out-of-state income or business interests

My multijurisdictional practice is a significant advantage for clients whose divorce does not fit neatly within the boundaries of a single state.

I have been licensed in Maryland since 1999, Washington, D.C. since 2001 and New York since 2007.

What to Do if You Are Considering Divorce

You do not necessarily need to wait until you are ready to file before speaking with me.

Understanding your rights before making major decisions can help you avoid mistakes.

Consider gathering copies of important documents such as:

• Tax returns
• Bank statements
• Credit card statements
• Investment statements
• Retirement accounts
• Mortgage documents
• Property deeds
• Loan documents
• Business financial records
• Employment agreements
• Insurance policies
• Prenuptial agreements
• Estate planning documents

Preserve records you already have legitimate access to, but do not improperly access your spouse’s private accounts or conceal, transfer or dispose of marital assets.

An early consultation can help you determine what information will be important in your particular case.

Should You Settle Your Divorce or Go to Court?

Litigation is not automatically the best outcome in a divorce.

Reaching a negotiated agreement can provide several advantages, including greater control over the outcome and more flexibility in creating solutions tailored to your family.

But settlement only makes sense when the proposed terms adequately protect your interests.

I approach divorce cases with both possibilities in mind.

When a reasonable agreement can be reached, I work toward a practical resolution.

When the other party refuses to negotiate reasonably or serious factual and legal disputes exist, I am prepared to litigate.

The appropriate strategy depends on your goals and the circumstances of the case.

Why Choose Me as Your Divorce Lawyer?

More Than 25 Years of Legal Experience

I have practiced law since 1999 and have handled divorce, custody, child support, domestic violence, adoption and other family law matters throughout my career.

Licensed in Three Major Jurisdictions

I am licensed in:

• Maryland since 1999
• Washington, D.C. since 2001
• New York since 2007

This multijurisdictional experience is particularly useful when a divorce involves people, children, businesses or property located in different states.

Extensive Litigation Background

My experience extends beyond family law.

I have litigated civil matters involving contracts, personal injury and medical malpractice and have handled criminal cases involving misdemeanors and felonies.

I have also litigated in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia and the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland.

That broader litigation experience gives me a strong foundation when a divorce becomes highly contested.

Direct Access to Your Attorney

My clients work directly with me.

I take the time to understand what is most important to you, explain your legal options and develop a strategy based on your circumstances.

Negotiation and Litigation Experience

Not every dispute belongs in a courtroom.

I work toward negotiated resolutions when they serve my client’s interests, while remaining prepared to litigate when an acceptable resolution cannot be reached.

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce

Do I need a divorce lawyer?

You are not necessarily required to hire an attorney, but divorce can involve long-term financial and parental consequences. Legal representation can be particularly important when the divorce involves children, significant property, a business, retirement assets, spousal support, domestic violence or disagreement between the spouses.

What is the difference between a contested and uncontested divorce?

An uncontested divorce generally means the spouses have resolved the issues necessary to end their marriage. A contested divorce involves one or more unresolved disputes, such as custody, support or property division.

How long does a divorce take?

There is no single timeline. An uncontested divorce may be resolved relatively efficiently, while a contested divorce involving discovery, financial disputes, custody evaluations or trial can take substantially longer.

Do we have to go to court?

Not necessarily. Many divorces are resolved through negotiated settlements. Court involvement may be necessary when the parties cannot agree on important issues.

What happens to the house in a divorce?

The outcome depends on the jurisdiction, ownership of the property, whether the home is marital or separate property, available equity and the overall financial circumstances. The house may be sold, transferred to one spouse or addressed as part of a broader property settlement.

What happens to retirement accounts in divorce?

Retirement assets accumulated during a marriage may be relevant to property division. The exact treatment depends on the type of account, when contributions were made and the law of the jurisdiction.

Who gets custody of the children?

Custody is not automatically awarded to one parent simply because they are the mother or father. Courts focus on the applicable legal standards and the circumstances affecting the children. Parents can also reach their own custody and parenting agreements.

Can I get divorced if my spouse does not agree?

A spouse’s refusal to cooperate does not necessarily prevent a divorce from ultimately proceeding. The procedure depends on the jurisdiction and circumstances of the case.

Can you represent me in New York, Washington, D.C. or Maryland?

Yes. I have been licensed in Maryland since 1999, Washington, D.C. since 2001 and New York since 2007, and I represent clients in divorce and family law matters across all three jurisdictions.

When should I contact a divorce attorney?

It can be helpful to speak with an attorney as soon as you begin seriously considering divorce, especially before making significant decisions regarding property, finances, children or leaving the marital residence.

Speak With an Experienced Divorce Lawyer

Divorce can change your family, finances and future.

You should understand your options before making decisions that may be difficult to change later.

At The Law Offices of Jeffrey N. Markowicz, I represent divorce and matrimonial clients throughout New York, Washington, D.C., and Maryland.

Whether your case involves an uncontested divorce, difficult custody dispute, significant assets, a family business or highly contested litigation, I will work directly with you to understand your priorities and determine the best path forward.

Schedule a Confidential Consultation

Washington, D.C. & Maryland: 202-972-2701

New York: 917-791-4157

Contact the Law Offices of Jeffrey N. Markowicz today to discuss your divorce and learn more about your legal options.