New York City Contested Divorce Attorneys
Serving All Of New York City
Including: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island and Westchester County
Experienced, Understanding and Aggressive Divorce Representation
When you are dealing with the prospect of a divorce or legal separation, it can be one of the most stressful times of your life. You may be facing financial uncertainty or issues concerning child custody, visitation and support. In some cases, you may be the victim of domestic violence and in need of an order of protection. You need a New York City divorce attorney you can trust, someone who will take the time to understand you, someone who will be responsive to your needs and desires, and someone with a proven record of results in contested divorce cases.
“Clients come to The Mandel Law Firm when losing is not an option.” — Attorney Steven J. Mandel
Experienced Is What Sets Us Apart From The Competition
At The Mandel Law Firm, our team of highly skilled attorneys offers a powerful combination of legal expertise, strategic thinking, and unwavering dedication to our clients. Whether you are dealing with divorce, child custody, or complex financial disputes, we provide strong, results-driven advocacy while ensuring our clients feel supported throughout the legal process.
Steven J. Mandel – A Top-Ranked Divorce Attorney
Founding attorney Steven J. Mandel is a nationally recognized leader in family law, named a “Top 100 Lawyer in the United States” and a “Super Lawyer.” Holding Martindale-Hubbell’s AV Preeminent Rating and a perfect 10.0 AVVO rating, he is known for handling high-net-worth divorces and intricate financial matters.
Mr. Mandel serves on the Advisory Board of the American Academy for Certified Financial Litigators and co-chairs the New York County Lawyers Association’s Matrimonial Section. Praised as “the Picasso of the legal profession,” he is renowned for his ability to craft winning legal strategies—even in the toughest cases.
Hon. Jane Pearl – Former Judge & Psychologist Providing Unmatched Insight
With 28 years on the bench, Judge Jane Pearl brings invaluable judicial experience to The Mandel Law Firm. As a former Judge for the Family Court of the State of New York, she offers firsthand knowledge of how courts assess and decide family law cases, giving our clients a strategic advantage.
Her Ph.D. in Psychology from Northwestern University sets her apart in handling emotionally complex cases, custody disputes, and mediation. As the only former judge and clinical psychologist practicing family law in New York, she delivers both legal and psychological insight, helping clients navigate even the most contentious family matters.
Marilyn T. Sugarman – Seasoned Matrimonial Law Attorney with Judicial Experience
With extensive courtroom experience, Marilyn T. Sugarman, Esq. provides deep legal insight into high-net-worth divorces, asset division, and financial litigation. As a former Special Referee for the New York County Supreme Court, she presided over hundreds of contested matrimonial cases, making her a skilled strategist in litigation and settlements.
Ms. Sugarman also serves as a Court-appointed Special Master, resolving discovery disputes and moving cases toward trial or settlement. Trained in advanced family and commercial mediation, she ensures clients receive efficient and effective dispute resolution. A graduate of Cornell University and Brooklyn Law School, she combines legal expertise with a deep understanding of personal and financial relationships.
Let Us Serve You In Your Contested Divorce
If you need strong, experienced legal representation, The Mandel Law Firm is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your case and take the next step toward securing your future.

We Help You Move Forward
The decision to end a marriage is one of the most difficult and wrenching you will face. Seeking advice from a knowledgeable divorce attorney, as early as possible, will go a long way toward preserving your long-term financial and emotional health as you move toward a new future.
At The Mandel Law Firm, we take the time to understand your financial, intellectual and emotional needs. In addition to being highly trained advocates, we are experienced trial lawyers. That means we possess the skill and experience necessary to protect your rights and advocate for your interests in negotiations and in the courtroom.
We work hard to resolve issues short of litigation, but we are also fully prepared to aggressively represent you every step of the way. Whether you are facing an amicable uncontested divorce or a contested divorce involving disputes over money, property, division of assets, spousal maintenance (alimony) or child custody, we know what it takes to successfully represent you.
“Clients come to The Mandel Law Firm when losing is not an option.” Remember, this may be your first divorce, but it isn’t ours. Contact us today for a consultation with an attorney with real experience resolving contested divorce matters in New York City and surrounding areas.
We Have Earned Our Reputation One Client at a Time
As a former client of The Mandel Law Firm wrote:
“Deciding to file for divorce was a tremendously difficult decision that took me several years to make. When I finally set my mind to divorce I was overwhelmed by the idea of finding suitable representation — a counselor who would understand me and execute my wishes and serve my interests, someone who would be responsive, an expert that was familiar with the system and the obstacles that I might face, and most importantly, someone that I could trust. I was blessed to find all those things and more in Steve Mandel. He is a true professional that sincerely cares for his clients and listens to their voice.“
“From our first conversation, I felt at ease. Steve was always readily available and worked efficiently to resolve my divorce. At the most stressful times he was a comforting voice of discernment prepared to take the next course of action. At every twist and turn I could rely on Steve. Whenever we faced a bump in the road, Steve had a contingency plan in place to keep us moving forward. His relationships with the courts were a great asset and helped us tremendously during the process. Additionally, his administrative staff worked in concert with him and together the office proved to be a powerful team that worked rapidly to achieve my goals.“
“In accordance with my desire, Steve was able to secure a settlement and finalize my divorce in the best fashion possible and in time for me to marry the love of my life. My ex is so lucky that Steve didn’t have to show his litigation capacity in a courtroom, because I am sure Steve would have shredded him. Thanks for everything Steve. May God’s blessings be upon you.”
Schedule Your Consultation Today with a New York City Contested Divorce Lawyer
Conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan, just around the corner from Grand Central Station, The Mandel Law Firm is easily accessible by train or car from each of the five boroughs of New York City, as well as Westchester and Nassau counties.
If you need the help of an experienced divorce lawyer to find a real solution to a serious divorce or custody disputes, call The Mandel Law Firm locally at (646) 770-3868, or contact us by e-mail now.
Need Counsel or Help to File for Divorce in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, the Bronx or Long Island? Contact Us Today.
To learn more about getting a Divorce in New York, contact us online or by calling locally at (646) 770-3868.