How to File for Divorce in New York Without a Lawyer (2026 Guide)

Overview: Filing for Divorce in New York Without a Lawyer

New York allows no-fault divorce based on irretrievable breakdown for 6+ months. The state has specific requirements for service and financial disclosure. DIY divorce is possible but New York's procedures are more complex than many states.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in New York?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

Both agree divorce and all terms
No children under 21 or agreement on custody/support
Agreement on property division
No spousal maintenance disputes
Both financially transparent

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

Custody or support disputes
Complex marital property (businesses, multiple properties)
Retirement accounts or pensions
Spouse contests divorce
Domestic violence issues

Find New York Divorce Lawyers →

Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in New York

Step 1

Meet Residency Requirement

You or spouse must have lived in NY for 2 years, OR married in NY and lived here 1 year, OR grounds arose in NY and lived here 1 year.

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A

💡 Tips:

Most flexible: 2-year continuous residency
Marriage certificate if using 1-year option

Step 2

File Summons and Complaint

Prepare and file Uncontested Divorce Packet with Supreme Court.

⏱ Estimated Time: 3-5 hours

💡 Tips:

Use official NY court forms
Filing fee varies by county ($210-335)
Must include verified complaint

Step 3

Serve Your Spouse

Serve spouse with summons, complaint, and other documents.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks

💡 Tips:

Cannot serve spouse yourself
Process server required
Spouse can sign affidavit of service instead

Step 4

File Proof of Service

File affidavit of service with court within 120 days.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1 week

💡 Tips:

Must be filed before proceeding
Use Form UD-3

Step 5

Submit Settlement Agreement

File comprehensive settlement agreement addressing all issues.

⏱ Estimated Time: 3-6 hours

💡 Tips:

Must address property, debts, support
Both parties sign before notary
Include child support worksheet if applicable

Step 6

File Request for Judicial Intervention (RJI)

Submit Form UD-9 to get case assigned to judge.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1 hour

💡 Tips:

$95 fee in most counties
Required to move case forward

Step 7

Submit Judgment Package

File proposed Judgment of Divorce and all required forms.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Use Form UD-10 (proposed judgment)
Include all financial statements
Some counties require affirmation

Step 8

Receive Final Judgment

Judge reviews and signs Judgment of Divorce.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-8 weeks

💡 Tips:

No hearing usually required for uncontested
Request certified copies
Divorce final when signed

Required Forms for New York Divorce

Summons (Uncontested) (UD-1)

Required

Verified Complaint (UD-2)

Required

Settlement Agreement (UD-6 or custom)

Required

Sworn Statement of Removal of Barriers to Remarriage (UD-4)

Required

Judgment of Divorce (UD-10)

Required

Note: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.

Cost Breakdown for New York DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$355-535

Filing fee: $210-335
Service fee: $50-100
Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$5,000-25,000

Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases

For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View New York Divorce Costs →

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Not filing RJI (case won't progress)

Incomplete settlement agreement

Not addressing NYC-specific rules

Missing required financial affidavits

Frequently Asked Questions About New York DIY Divorce

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in New York?

Yes, but New York has more complex procedures than many states. The court system provides an Uncontested Divorce Packet with all required forms and instructions.

How long does a New York divorce take?

Uncontested divorces typically take 3-6 months in New York. There's no mandatory waiting period, but court processing and review takes time.

What is the RJI and why do I need it?

The Request for Judicial Intervention (RJI) is required to get your case assigned to a judge. Without filing the RJI ($95 fee), your case won't progress to judgment.

Need Professional Help?

While DIY divorce can save money in New York, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.

Find New York Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer