Divorce Lawyer in Pittsford, NY
For Pittsford families, ending a marriage carries real emotional weight and brings about urgent questions about children, property, and finances. As a divorce lawyer in Pittsford, Michelle Cimino represents spouses and parents in Pittsford, East Rochester, and Fairport with careful counsel and a clear view of New York law, whether they’re considering legal separation or divorce.
What a Divorce Lawyer in Pittsford Can Do for You
Most divorces raise several legal issues at once, and Michelle will clearly explain how New York law treats each one. Some of the issues she may go over with you include the following:
Equitable Distribution of Marital Property
Spouses often worry about how the court will divide what they built together. New York follows equitable distribution under Domestic Relations Law (DRL) 236(B). The court first classifies property as marital or separate, then divides marital property fairly, which does not necessarily mean equally. Property division can involve:
- Distinguishing marital property from separate property, such as assets owned before the marriage, inheritances, and certain gifts
- Valuing retirement accounts, pensions, and deferred compensation
- Addressing the marital residence and marital debt
When marital property includes business interests, investments, or other complex assets, determining a fair division may require a more detailed financial review.
Complex Assets
Closely held businesses, stock options, multiple properties, and commingled accounts may require careful tracing and valuation. Michelle is prepared to discuss divorce issues involving complex assets, and high-net-worth divorce is one of her focus areas.
Spousal Maintenance
In a divorce, a lower-earning spouse may need financial support. New York courts can award spousal maintenance (also called alimony) during the divorce (pendente lite) and after it is finalized. In both cases, courts use formulas set by state law that count the paying spouse’s income up to a periodically adjusted limit. Judges can adjust the amount based on factors listed in the law and may award additional support if the paying spouse earns more than that limit. You don’t have to understand all of this on your own. Michelle will guide you on what to expect regarding spousal support requirements and restrictions.
Child Custody and Visitation
New York distinguishes legal custody, which covers major decisions about education, health care, and religion, from physical custody, which concerns where the child lives. Courts decide both, as well as parenting time, in the child’s best interests. Michelle has extensive experience handling child custody issues, including fathers’ rights and grandparents’ rights.
Child Support
The Child Support Standards Act calculates the basic child support obligation as a percentage of combined parental income after permitted deductions: 17 percent for one child, 25 percent for two, 29 percent for three, 31 percent for four, and at least 35 percent for five or more. These percentages apply up to a combined income cap that New York adjusts periodically, and courts may award additional support on income above that cap. Michelle can review your financial information to calculate child support and will explain factors that may affect the amount.
Grounds for Divorce and No-Fault Divorce
Many spouses assume they must prove fault in order to meet the grounds for divorce in New York. Under DRL 170(7), a spouse may seek a no-fault divorce by stating under oath that the marriage has broken down irretrievably for at least six months. Michelle can help you understand the grounds for divorce in New York, including the no-fault process.
Uncontested and Contested Divorce
In an uncontested divorce, spouses generally agree on every issue. A contested divorce involves at least one disputed issue that must be resolved through agreement or a court decision. Michelle handles both with a level-headed approach.
Collaborative Law and Mediation
Some spouses prefer to avoid a contested court process. In collaborative law, both spouses and their attorneys agree in writing to resolve the case without litigation. In divorce mediation, a neutral mediator helps spouses reach agreement. Michelle can help you explore these options and work toward a negotiated resolution.
Separation Agreements and Legal Separation
A separation agreement is a written contract that can address property, support, and custody while spouses live apart. Spouses may also seek a judgment of separation from a court. Neither ends the marriage. So if you and your spouse want to keep the option open to reconcile or move forward with a divorce, Michelle can support you.
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
Couples can set financial terms before or during marriage. Under DRL 236(B)(3), a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement must be in writing, signed by both parties, and notarized.
Divorce for Service Members and Military Spouses
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) allows an active-duty service member going through a divorce to request a stay of proceedings (temporary pause) in certain circumstances. The Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA) governs how state courts may divide retired pay in a military divorce.
Divorce for Same-Sex Couples
Since the Marriage Equality Act took effect in 2011, New York applies the same divorce law to same-sex spouses going through a divorce. If you’re looking for an attorney to help with separation, custody, and other family law matters, contact Michelle. She is an inclusive attorney ready to support all members of the Pittsford community.
What Sets Pittsford Divorce Lawyer Michelle Cimino Apart
Choosing a divorce attorney may be one of the most important decisions you make. Several parts of Michelle’s background set her apart as a Pittsford divorce attorney you can trust.
Almost 30 Years of Practice in Monroe County
Licensed to practice law in New York since 1997, Michelle represents clients in divorce, custody, and other family law matters throughout the Rochester area. She helps clients understand their options and set realistic expectations based on how the law may apply to their circumstances.
Preparation for Trial
Michelle’s professional memberships reflect her commitment to effective advocacy and helping clients navigate difficult family law decisions. Michelle is among the Matrimonial and Family Trial Lawyers Association, a National Trial Lawyers organization. She also belongs to the New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers, a group focused on courtroom advocacy. For clients facing contested divorce or custody issues, these recognitions offer added confidence in Michelle’s ability to advocate for their interests in court.
Connection to the Local Family Law Community
Michelle has chaired the Membership Committee of the Monroe County Bar Association’s Family Law Section and is a member of the New York State Bar Association. These roles keep her connected to the local family law community. She also previously co-chaired the Programs Committee of the Greater Rochester Association for Women Attorneys.
Alongside these professional contributions, Michelle was recognized by Super Lawyers in 2026 as a top-rated family law attorney in Pittsford, NY.
What Real Clients Have To Say
Choosing a divorce lawyer means trusting someone with deeply personal concerns and important financial decisions. Here is what real clients from the greater Rochester area have to say about their experience working with Michelle:
“Michelle is an incredibly understanding person, and she is non-judgmental in listening to your needs for the case. She is also detail-oriented and thorough, making sure that she has all the information to fight fiercely for you … She is knowledgeable about the ins and outs of the courtroom, which helps to make the anxiety that can come with fighting in court almost non-existent. I highly recommend her for any legal needs.” – Danielle H.
“I felt incredibly fortunate to have Michelle Cimino as my attorney. She brought a calm, confident presence to the courtroom and clearly understands the law as well as how things actually work in practice. She’s intelligent, direct, efficient, and won’t waste your time or money. She achieved the best outcome we could have hoped for. Thank you, Michelle!” – Christopher S.
Michelle Cimino is ready to support you through your divorce. At your confidential consultation, she will discuss your concerns, explain your legal options, and help you consider your next steps.
Visiting Our Pittsford Office & the Monroe County Divorce Court
The Cimino Law Firm is located at 24A Grove Street, Pittsford, New York, 14534, just north of the Erie Canal. Just west of Schoen Place and the historic Coal Tower, and north of the Pittsford Community Library, our firm offers a private setting to discuss your legal concerns.
Pittsford residents may have their divorce handled in Monroe County Supreme Court in Rochester. The court hears divorce cases at the Hall of Justice, 99 Exchange Blvd., and you may need to attend hearings or a trial in person if your divorce is contested. To get to the courthouse from Pittsford, take I-490 W from Washington Rd. Then exit on S Clinton Ave. toward downtown and turn left on E Broad St. The drive takes just under 15 minutes.
Schedule a Confidential Consultation With a Divorce Lawyer in Pittsford
Going through a divorce, separation, or legal dispute can be difficult, especially when it affects your well-being and the people you love. Your questions deserve clear, informed answers. At your confidential consultation, Michelle Cimino will review your circumstances, explain how New York law applies, and outline your options. Call (585) 366-8866 or contact our firm online to arrange a meeting at 24A Grove Street. Virtual consultations are available.
Firm Hours:
Monday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wednesday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Thursday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Weekends: By Appointment Only
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