No-Contest & Uncontested Divorce Attorneys in Staten Island

Going through a divorce can be emotionally and financially draining—but it doesn’t have to be. If you and your spouse agree on the essential aspects of your separation, a no-contest (uncontested) divorce may be the ideal legal solution. It’s faster, more affordable, and significantly less stressful than a traditional contested divorce.

At Angiuli & Gentile, LLP, we help clients in Staten Island and surrounding New York areas navigate uncontested divorce with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re looking to finalize your divorce amicably, avoid court appearances, or protect your children through peaceful co-parenting, our experienced divorce attorneys are here to support you at every stage.

What Is a No-Contest Divorce?

A no-contest divorce, also known as an uncontested divorce, occurs when both spouses agree on all terms related to ending the marriage. That includes property division, spousal support, child custody, visitation schedules, and debt allocation. Because there are no disputes to resolve in court, this type of divorce tends to move quickly through the legal system with minimal conflict.

This form of divorce is based on mutual consent, not fault. In other words, neither party is alleging wrongdoing, such as abandonment or adultery. Instead, both agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken and they wish to part ways respectfully.

Key Elements of a No-Contest Divorce

1. Agreement on legal issues: Both parties must agree on issues such as property division, debts, custody, and support.
2. No need to assign blame: No need to prove infidelity, abandonment, or other grounds.
3. Minimal court intervention: In many cases, court appearances are not necessary.
4. Faster processing time: Typically resolved within a few months, depending on the court.

If you’re looking to avoid an extended legal battle and are ready to move forward in life with dignity and cooperation, a no-contest divorce may be the right path.

Is a No-Contest Divorce Right for You?

Many clients come to us saying, “We don’t want to fight—we just want to move on with our lives.” If that sounds familiar, you may be an excellent candidate for a no-contest divorce.

You Might Qualify If:

1. Both spouses agree that the marriage should end.
2. There is consensus on how to divide marital assets and debts.
3. Custody and visitation issues (if applicable) are resolved.
4. Neither party is seeking revenge or attempting to win a “battle” in court.
5. You want to avoid the high cost of litigation and ongoing emotional strain.

Even if you don’t agree on every detail at the outset, our legal team can help facilitate communication or guide you through mediation so you can reach a fair and enforceable agreement.

Common Examples:

• Couples with no children and minimal shared assets often choose a no-contest divorce for its speed and simplicity.
• Parents who are co-parenting amicably and want to protect their children from the trauma of litigation often opt for this route.
• Spouses looking to keep legal costs down and maintain privacy prefer the uncontested approach.

We understand that divorce is never easy—but it doesn’t have to be destructive. Let us help you move forward on a foundation of mutual respect and legal clarity.

How to File for a No-Contest Divorce in New York

Filing for an uncontested divorce in New York involves several steps, but the process is streamlined compared to traditional divorce litigation. Our attorneys at Angiuli & Gentile, LLP handle all aspects of the legal process so that you can focus on the emotional transition, not the paperwork.

The Legal Filing Process

1. Confirm Residency Requirements: At least one spouse must have lived in New York for one continuous year.
2. Determine Grounds for Divorce: Most uncontested divorces cite “irretrievable breakdown” as the no-fault ground.
3. Draft a Settlement Agreement: This outlines terms related to property, custody, support, and debts.
4. Prepare the Court Forms: Our team completes all required documents, including the Summons and Verified Complaint.
5. Serve the Other Party: The non-filing spouse must be legally served, even if in full agreement.
6. File Documents with the Court: All forms are filed with the appropriate New York Supreme Court.
7. Wait for Court Review and Judgment: In uncontested cases, a judge often signs off on the divorce without requiring a court appearance.

While the process may sound simple, minor errors can lead to delays, rejections, or even legal complications. Our team ensures everything is filed correctly the first time.

Addressing Divorce with Minor Children

When children are involved, even the most amicable divorce requires careful consideration. New York courts prioritize the best interests of the child, and your parenting plan must reflect this standard.

What Must Be Included:

1. Legal and Physical Custody: Which parent makes major decisions and where the child will live.
2. Visitation Schedule: A defined, age-appropriate plan for parenting time.
3. Child Support: Based on New York’s Child Support Standards Act, including income and number of children.
4. Healthcare and Education: Who will cover insurance, school decisions, and extracurriculars.

At Angiuli & Gentile, LLP, we draft and review custody and support agreements to ensure they meet court approval and work for your family long-term. If needed, we collaborate with parenting professionals to help create developmentally appropriate plans.

Even in a peaceful divorce, a well-crafted parenting plan is critical to your child’s stability and success.

Options for Mediation and Flat-Fee Representation

Not every uncontested divorce starts out perfectly aligned. That’s why we offer divorce mediation services to help couples resolve final sticking points without heading into a courtroom.

Divorce Mediation

Mediation involves a neutral third party (often an attorney) who facilitates productive conversations so both sides can reach agreement. It’s confidential, less formal than court, and often leads to faster results.

Flat-Fee Legal Services

If you and your spouse are fully aligned, we offer flat-fee uncontested divorce packages that include:

1. Settlement agreement drafting or review
2. Preparation and filing of all legal documents
3. Guidance throughout the process
4. Optional court representation if required

You benefit from predictability, transparency, and reduced financial stress. We’ll help you choose the right level of legal support based on your goals.

Do You Have to Go to Court?

One of the most appealing aspects of an uncontested divorce is the possibility of avoiding court altogether. In many cases, especially where there are no children or the parenting plan is straightforward, the court will grant a divorce without requiring either party to appear in person.

However, there are some situations where a short court appearance may be necessary—such as when:

• The judge requires clarification of the agreement
• Minor children are involved and the court wants to confirm custodial arrangements
• A procedural issue arises during filing

Whether your case is 100% remote or requires a brief hearing, our attorneys will prepare you thoroughly, handle all communications with the court, and represent your interests every step of the way.

The Cost of a No-Contest Divorce in Staten Island

One of the main reasons clients pursue a no-contest divorce is the significant cost savings compared to contested litigation. Uncontested divorces are generally quicker, require fewer legal hours, and avoid prolonged court involvement.

What Affects Cost

1. The complexity of your marital assets or debts
2. Whether minor children are involved
3. Need for negotiation, mediation, or revisions
4. Court filing and processing fees
5. Whether legal representation is shared or independent

At Angiuli & Gentile, LLP, we offer upfront pricing and flat-fee options when applicable. You’ll receive a detailed breakdown of all costs before we begin, so there are no surprises down the road.

How Angiuli & Gentile, LLP Can Help

Our attorneys offer more than just legal guidance—we provide a structured, compassionate approach that empowers you to separate with dignity and confidence.

What You Can Expect

1. Experienced family law counsel with over 35 years in Staten Island
2. Step-by-step handling of all documentation and filings
3. Drafting and review of divorce settlement agreements
4. Mediation support and child custody planning
5. Transparent pricing and flexible service options
6. Skilled courtroom representation, if needed

We focus on solutions, not battles—helping clients resolve legal issues in a way that preserves finances, protects families, and promotes peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do both spouses need to hire a lawyer?

Not always. One lawyer can draft the agreement if both parties are in agreement. However, legal ethics prevent one attorney from representing both sides unless acting as a neutral mediator. We can help determine what structure works best for your case.

How long does a no-contest divorce take?

Most uncontested divorces in New York are finalized within 8–12 weeks, depending on how quickly documents are filed and the court’s schedule. Cases involving children or complex assets may take slightly longer.

What happens if we start amicably but run into disagreement?

You may still qualify for uncontested divorce if the dispute is minor and resolved quickly. If not, your case could become contested—but we will always work to find middle ground and avoid unnecessary escalation.

Is court ever required?

In many cases, no. But if a hearing is scheduled, we will represent you, prepare your responses, and make sure the process is smooth and stress-free.

Contact Angiuli & Gentile, LLP Today

If you and your spouse agree on ending your marriage, don’t make the process harder than it needs to be. A no-contest divorce can provide you with a swift, respectful, and cost-effective resolution, and our legal team is ready to help.

Contact Angiuli & Gentile, LLP today for a confidential consultation.