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Syracuse Family Law Attorney

At the Law Office of Paul J. Tortora, Jr., Esq., we understand that family law matters are among the most personal and emotionally challenging legal issues a person can face. Whether you are navigating a divorce, resolving a custody dispute, or addressing sensitive issues involving child support, paternity, or domestic relations, you need more than legal representation—you need a steady advocate who is committed to protecting your rights and your family’s future.

Led by attorney Paul J. Tortora, Jr., our firm provides experienced and compassionate guidance to clients throughout Syracuse and Central New York. With over fifteen years of legal experience, Attorney Tortora has built a practice focused on delivering practical solutions in high-stakes family law matters, including divorce, custody and visitation, child support, prenuptial agreements, grandparent rights, and family offense proceedings. His background includes complex litigation experience, federal policy work, and recognition by organizations such as Super Lawyers, Avvo, and Martindale-Hubbell for professional excellence and client service.

Practice Areas

Divorce

Custody

Child Support

Family Offense

CPS Investigations

Grandparent Rights

Meet Paul Tortora

Paul J. Tortora Jr. is an accomplished Syracuse divorce and family law attorney with extensive experience providing counsel across the Central New York region in a broad range of matters, including divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, grandparent rights, prenuptial agreements, child protective, and domestic violence cases.

If I could give Paul a higher review than 5 stars I absolutely would. I recommend him more than anyone. I made a dumb teenage decision and he was able to help me through the whole process of court and keeping...

Alyssa

I honestly don’t know what I would’ve done without Paul. Going through family court was one of the hardest things I’ve ever faced, and he was there every step of the way. Always quick to respond, always honest...

Ricky

Paul was an excellent choice to handle my divorce. He was honest and upfront with me about what to expect and was able to work with my wife’s attorney to reach a quick resolution. I couldn’t be happier with the...

Joseph

I had a very positive experience with Paul. He was responsive and explained everything clearly throughout the process. I felt supported and well-represented from start to finish. I would definitely recommend...

Rosalie Russo

Highly Recommend for Divorce Representation. My divorce was one of the most challenging and stressful experiences I've ever faced. Throughout the entire process, Paul remained steady, professional, and...

Ella C.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get divorced in New York State?

The length of a divorce matter in New York State can vary greatly depending on the particular circumstances of each case. An uncontested divorce between two parties in agreement on the issues can often be wrapped up in a few months. However, high-conflict contested divorces between hostile parties or those involving high assets or contested custody can take significantly longer to resolve, from approximately 6 months to several years, depending on the complexities of the case.

What are the grounds for divorce in New York State?

New York is a no-fault divorce state, which means that neither spouse has to prove wrongdoing to get a divorce. You can file based on an “irretrievable breakdown” of the marriage lasting six months or more. To have a divorce granted on the ground of "irretrievable breakdown, only one spouse needs to state under oath that the marriage has been broken beyond repair for at least six months. The court does not require proof of misconduct or fault, and it will generally accept this statement as sufficient.

What court handles divorces in New York State?

Divorce proceedings, unlike other family matters, are handled exclusively in New York's Supreme Court, not Family Court. This is because divorce involves the dissolution of marriage, which requires the broader equitable powers of the Supreme Court. Ancillary issues like child custody, support, and property division can be addressed in the same action. A divorce action must be brought in a county where at least one of the parties resides. To file for divorce, at least one spouse must also meet New York's residency requirements.

Our Blog

May 17, 2026 By Tortora Law Firm Team How Does Discovery Work in New York State Divorces? When a New York divorce becomes contested, one of the most important, and often most misunderstood, phases of the case is discovery. Discovery is...

May 17, 2026 By Tortora Law Firm Team Divorcing When One Spouse Owns a Professional Practice in New York When a marriage involves a professional practice, such as a medical office, dental practice, law firm interest, accounting firm, or other...

May 17, 2026 By Tortora Law Firm Team Tax Implications of Divorce in New York: What You Need to Know Before You Settle Divorce settlements are often focused on who keeps the house, how parenting time will work, and what support payments may be required. But one...