Free Consultations

Your initial consultation is always free. Schedule Yours Today.

Experience Matters

Chris has successfully tried ALL types of divorce and family law matters.

Stay Informed

You can expect to stay informed about all aspects of your case.

We Are Responsive

You will receive responses to your calls and emails within 24 hours.

“I attribute my overall success to the fact that I truly care.”

-Chris Palermo

Suffolk County Divorce & Family Law Attorney

Q: How is property divided in a Suffolk County divorce?

New York uses 'equitable distribution,' meaning marital assets and debts are divided fairly, but not necessarily equally, considering factors such as marriage duration, contributions, earning potential, and the needs of both parties. Read more about how property is divided in a Suffolk County divorce.

Expert Legal Representation Across Suffolk County

At Palermo Law, we specialize in delivering compassionate and skilled legal representation as your trusted Suffolk County family law and divorce attorney. With offices conveniently located in Suffolk County, we serve clients in Babylon, Hauppauge, Huntington, Patchogue, Riverhead, and beyond. Led by Chris Palermo, Esq., our firm brings nearly two decades of experience helping families navigate the complexities of divorce and family law matters. We understand the emotional toll these cases can take, which is why we strive to resolve disputes amicably whenever possible, securing favorable outcomes efficiently. When litigation becomes necessary, our seasoned Suffolk County divorce lawyers are prepared to advocate fiercely in court, drawing on a proven track record of success across local jurisdictions like the Suffolk County Family Court in Central Islip and Supreme Courts in Riverhead.

At the end of the day, this is your life. You’re the one who has to live with the results. That’s why we really listen to what you want. We will explain everything clearly, give you solid advice, and we’ll figure out the best way to handle whatever comes up. Divorce is hard, and it affects everyone in the family. If you want to talk about it, give us a call at (631) 780-0085, or send us a message through our website. We can set up a time to talk, and you can see if we are the right law firm for you.

Why Choose Chris Palermo and Our Suffolk County Divorce Team?

Personalized Service from Hauppauge to Huntington

Choosing the right Suffolk County family law attorney can make all the difference. At Palermo Law, we pride ourselves on offering personalized, client-focused service that sets us apart. Whether you’re in Hauppauge seeking child custody guidance or in Babylon facing a divorce, Chris Palermo or Riley Perry will personally handle your case from start to finish. We offer free initial consultations, keep you informed at every stage, and respond to calls and emails within 24 hours. Our commitment to accessibility and communication ensures that clients in Patchogue, Huntington, and Riverhead feel supported as we work tirelessly to protect their rights and achieve optimal results in family law and divorce proceedings.
Selecting the right divorce attorney is a critical decision. At Chris Palermo Law, we offer more than just legal representation; we provide a partnership built on integrity, trust, and unwavering dedication to your best interests. Our strengths include:

Deep Local Expertise: With years of experience serving Suffolk County residents, we possess an intimate understanding of local court procedures and family law nuances.
Strategic and Personalized Approach: We tailor our legal strategies to your unique situation, ensuring we pursue the most effective path to achieving your goals.
Proven Track Record of Client Satisfaction: With over 60 5-star Google reviews, our reputation for integrity and client-focused service is reflected in the positive feedback and referrals we receive from satisfied clients throughout Suffolk County.
Commitment to Holistic Support: We recognize the emotional and financial complexities of divorce, and we are dedicated to providing comprehensive support throughout your journey.

Comprehensive Family Law Services in Suffolk County

Divorce and Family Law Solutions from Babylon to Riverhead

As premier Suffolk County family law attorneys, we offer a full range of services tailored to your needs. Our expertise includes:

Divorce: Whether uncontested or contested, our Suffolk County divorce attorneys guide you through the process with care and precision, serving clients in Hauppauge, Huntington, and more.
Child Custody & Visitation: We fight for fair custody arrangements in Patchogue and Babylon, prioritizing your child’s best interests.
Child Support: Ensuring equitable support solutions in Riverhead and beyond.
Spousal Support: Negotiating fair alimony terms for clients across Suffolk County.
Orders of Protection: Providing urgent legal help in Huntington and Hauppauge.
Paternity & Adoption: Resolving complex family matters with authority.

Our deep knowledge of Suffolk County courts, from Central Islip to Riverhead, allows us to deliver results efficiently and effectively.

Practice Areas

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Divorce

Family Law

Child Support

Child Custody & Visitation

Fathers Rights

Mothers Rights

Spousal Support

Uncontested Divorce

Divorce and Family Law Services Across Suffolk County

Facing a divorce or family law matter? We’re here to support clients throughout Suffolk County, including Huntington, Babylon, Smithtown, Islip, Riverhead, Brookhaven, East Hampton, Southampton, and all surrounding communities. At Palermo Law, our experienced attorneys deliver personalized legal guidance tailored to your unique needs, no matter where you are in the county.

1) Suffolk County Courts: Where to File What

Riverhead Supreme Court (Divorce Court)

Divorce filing and divorce judgment
Property division (equitable distribution)
Spousal maintenance
Settlement approvals and trial decisions in the divorce case

Central Islip Family Court (Family Court Matters)

Custody and parenting time
Child support
Family offense matters
Orders of protection
Enforcement/modification of certain family court orders

Quick rule: Divorce itself is typically handled in Supreme Court. Parenting and protection issues are often handled in Family Court. Some families deal with both.

2) What the First 30–90 Days Usually Look Like

Filing + Service One spouse starts the case and formally serves the other spouse.
Early Court Dates The court sets deadlines, a schedule, and a path forward.
Temporary Orders (“Pendente Lite”) Temporary orders can decide schedules, money, and household rules while the case is pending.

Temporary custody / parenting time Temporary child support / spousal support Household expense allocation Exclusive occupancy Communication rules

Why it matters: “Temporary” orders often become the real-life routine everyone lives with for months.

3) Bring These Documents to the First Meeting

Financial Documents

Last 2 years of tax returns (with W-2s/1099s)
Last 2–3 months of pay stubs
Last 3 months of bank statements (all accounts)
Last 3 months of credit card statements
Retirement statements (401(k), IRA, pension)
Mortgage statement or lease + property tax/insurance info
Auto loans, student loans, personal loans
Health insurance costs and childcare costs

Family + Child Documents

School schedules and school communications
Medical records/portals and provider info (if relevant)
Activity calendars and transportation routines
Any existing court orders or prior filings

If Safety Is an Issue

Photos of injuries or property damage (if applicable)
Police incident numbers or reports (if applicable)
Screenshots of threats (save full threads, not single messages)

Practical tip: Courts trust paper. The more organized the documentation, the cleaner the outcome tends to be.

4) Common Mistakes That Cost the Most

Moving out without a written parenting-time plan
Making big financial moves without a documented reason
Mixing separate funds into joint accounts without clear records
Venting by text or social media (screenshots become exhibits)
“Handshake” agreements with no paper trail
Hiding income or manipulating cash flow (credibility damage is hard to recover from)

5) Plain-English Definitions

Equitable distribution: New York divides property based on what is fair, not automatically 50/50.
Temporary orders (“pendente lite”): Court-issued rules while the case is pending that shape schedules, money, and household access.
Custody vs. parenting time: Custody is decision-making authority; parenting time is the schedule.

6) Week-One Checklist

Gather documents and keep them in one folder (digital + paper)
Write a factual timeline (dates, events, financial changes)
Keep communications short, calm, and child-focused
Start a parenting log (drop-offs, appointments, school events)
Avoid revenge spending or sudden account changes
Do not record conversations unless counsel confirms it is lawful and strategically necessary

Meet Chris Palermo

Helping those in need obtain the justice they deserve.

Chris Palermo, Esq. has been practicing law for over 20 years and his brings extensive experience to Suffolk County families. With a law degree from Touro College (2001) and undergraduate studies at Villanova, Chris combines strong academic credentials with a genuine commitment to his clients.

He’s known for his caring yet forceful approach, effectively guiding hundreds through complex family law matters. Admitted to practice in all New York State courts, Chris is recognized by peers and clients alike, holding a 10/10 Avvo rating and accolades like National Top 100 Trial Lawyer.

Beyond his legal expertise, Chris is deeply involved in the Suffolk County community, supporting local causes like the Marcie Mazzola 5K Run/Walk and St. Jude Foundation. This dedication to both legal excellence and community service underscores his commitment to serving those in need.

Chris Palermo

Meet Riley Perry: Your Suffolk County Divorce and Family Law Advocate

When you need a trusted divorce and family law attorney in Suffolk County, Riley T. Perry, Esq., brings a unique blend of expertise, dedication, and personalized care to every case. As a partner at Palermo Law, Riley has built a reputation as a tireless advocate for clients navigating the complexities of divorce, child custody, and family law matters across Long Island. With deep roots in the local community and a proven track record, she’s here to guide you through life’s toughest legal challenges with compassion and skill.

Professional Associations & Awards

New York State Bar Association
Suffolk County Bar Association
Suffolk County Matrimonial and Family Law Committee.
American Institute of Family Law Attorney’s 10 Best Female Attorney’s

Riley Perry

Client Reviews & Testimonials

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ONLINE RATINGS

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5 stars

The Experienced Suffolk County Divorce & Family Law Attorneys You Need

Expert Divorce and Family Law Representation in Suffolk County

When facing the challenges of divorce or family law matters in Suffolk County, you need a trusted legal team with deep expertise and a proven track record. At Palermo Law, our dedicated attorneys, Chris Palermo and Riley Perry, bring over 20 years of combined experience to guide you through every step of the process. We understand the emotional and legal complexities involved, and we’re committed to delivering personalized, results-driven solutions tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re navigating a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or spousal support issue, our Suffolk County divorce and family law attorneys are here to provide compassionate support and aggressive advocacy.

Why Choose Palermo Law for Your Suffolk County Family Law Needs?

Extensive Experience: With decades of handling hundreds of divorce and family law cases, Chris Palermo and Riley Perry offer unmatched expertise in Suffolk County courts, ensuring you receive top-tier representation.
Personalized Attention: Unlike larger firms, we limit our caseload to provide hands-on guidance, with either Chris or Riley personally managing your case from start to finish.
Award-Winning Advocacy: Recognized by the National Top 100 Trial Lawyers and Super Lawyers Rising Stars, our team has earned a reputation for excellence and client satisfaction.
Local Knowledge: Deeply rooted in Suffolk County, we leverage our understanding of local courts, judges, and procedures to secure the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Comprehensive Services: From divorce mediation to complex custody battles, we handle all aspects of family law, including property division, child support, and domestic violence cases.
Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize your needs, offering free initial consultations and prompt responses within 24 hours to keep you informed and empowered throughout your case.

Our Commitment to Your Success

Strategic Solutions: We craft tailored legal strategies to achieve your goals, whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, always aiming for the most favorable resolution.
Compassionate Guidance: We recognize the emotional toll of family law disputes and provide supportive counsel to help you navigate this challenging time with confidence.
Proven Results: Our track record includes successfully brokering equitable divorce settlements and securing favorable custody arrangements, as evidenced by countless client testimonials.
Accessible Support: With offices in Hauppauge and appointments available in Huntington and NYC, we’re conveniently located to serve Suffolk County residents effectively.

Trust Palermo Law to be your partner in resolving your Suffolk County divorce and family law matters. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward a brighter future.

Types of Cases We Handle

If you’re facing a family legal issue in Suffolk County, you need a law firm with a proven track record across a wide range of practice areas. At Chris Palermo Law, we’ve dedicated ourselves to providing comprehensive family law services, ensuring you have expert guidance no matter your situation.

Here’s a breakdown of our key practice areas:

Divorce: We handle all aspects of divorce, from uncontested to highly contested cases, striving for efficient and favorable resolutions.
Uncontested Divorce: For couples seeking amicable separations, we streamline the process, minimizing stress and expense.
Divorce Mediation: We facilitate productive discussions, helping couples reach mutually agreeable solutions outside of court.
Child Support & Custody: We advocate for your children’s best interests, ensuring fair and practical arrangements.
Orders of Protection: We prioritize your safety, swiftly securing protective orders when necessary.
Child Protective Services (CPS) Cases: We provide experienced representation in neglect and abuse cases, protecting your parental rights.
Paternity: We handle paternity establishment, ensuring legal rights and responsibilities are clearly defined.
Adoptions: We guide families through the adoption process, making your dream of expanding your family a reality.

Our team has extensive experience in each of these areas, and we understand the sensitive nature of family law matters. We are committed to providing personalized attention, clear communication, and strategic advocacy to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family.

Contact Our Suffolk County Divorce Lawyers Today

Chris Palermo and his partner, Riley Perry, offer compassionate and dedicated legal support for all of your divorce and family law matters in Suffolk County. They are committed to achieving the most favorable outcomes for their clients, providing consistent and reliable guidance every step of the way. When you partner with their firm, you can expect:

A free initial consultation to thoroughly discuss your specific situation.
Personalized attention from Chris Palermo or Riley Perry, who will handle your case personally from beginning to end.
Frequent updates to ensure you stay informed throughout your case.
Prompt and responsive communication—calls and emails are typically returned within 24 hours.

Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation and secure the trusted legal support from an experienced Suffolk County divorce attorney that you deserve.

click here to view allfrequently asked questions

Suffolk County Divorce & Family Law Attorney

Suffolk County Divorce & Family Law Attorney

Expert Legal Representation Across Suffolk County

Why Choose Chris Palermo and Our Suffolk County Divorce Team?

Personalized Service from Hauppauge to Huntington

Comprehensive Family Law Services in Suffolk County

Divorce and Family Law Solutions from Babylon to Riverhead

Practice Areas

Divorce and Family Law Services Across Suffolk County

1) Suffolk County Courts: Where to File What

2) What the First 30–90 Days Usually Look Like

3) Bring These Documents to the First Meeting

Financial Documents

Family + Child Documents

If Safety Is an Issue

4) Common Mistakes That Cost the Most

5) Plain-English Definitions

6) Week-One Checklist

Meet Chris Palermo

Meet Riley Perry: Your Suffolk County Divorce and Family Law Advocate

Professional Associations & Awards

Client Reviews & Testimonials

ONLINE RATINGS

The Experienced Suffolk County Divorce & Family Law Attorneys You Need

Expert Divorce and Family Law Representation in Suffolk County

Why Choose Palermo Law for Your Suffolk County Family Law Needs?

Our Commitment to Your Success

Types of Cases We Handle

Contact Our Suffolk County Divorce Lawyers Today

frequently asked questions

LEGAL MEMBERSHIPS & AWARDS