Best Family Lawyer in Queens County, NY
James J. DeCristofaro, Esq.
Family Lawyer
This means I practice commercial litigation, commercial law, business litigation, and business law, and I am headquartered in New York, New York.
I have aggressively represented both plaintiffs and defendants in business disputes for over 15 years to get results for my clients. As a New York business attorney, I have resolved over $100 million in business disputes; also as a New York business attorney, I work on transactional documents, including formation documents like limited liability company operating agreements, articles of incorporation, bylaws, purchase and sale documents (both stock and asset), confidentiality agreements, trade secret agreements, work for hire agreements, employment agreements, consulting agreements — just about every business or commercial agreement there is.
I have represented clients in cases in many states in the United States in federal court, state court, arbitration, mediation, before federal court judges, federal court magistrates, state court judges, referees, arbitrators, and mediators.
I have also represented clients and consulted with clients in international disputes.
I have represented clients in many industry sectors, including telecommunications, technology, sub-prime lending, social media, apparel, fashion, cosmetics, entertainment, sports, agriculture, real estate, medical, airline, construction, import export, non-profit, food and beverage, manufacturing and distribution, restaurant, transportation, diamond, security, household goods, large scale manufacturing (e.g., helicopter retrofitters and oil pipeline support rigs), retail, and financial.
Because I am an experienced New York business attorney, I intimately know how to navigate through the dispute resolution processes to most efficiently and effectively achieve the best results possible for you under your particular set of circumstances.
I can help you free up your time so that you can focus on running and growing your business, and spending time with your family.
I can help you get answers from recalcitrant business partners, vendors, and other adversaries so that you can have all of the information you need to run your business and make an informed decision to resolve your business dispute.
Donald Mastrodomenico
Family Lawyer
With over 100 years of combined experience the Law Offices of Donald Mastrodomenico has devoted itself exclusively to the practice of Divorce and Family law. In fact each year for the past twenty years this firm has initiated over 400 divorces, more than any other private law firm in the New York City area according to the matrimonial clerk’s office of the City of New York.
Over 75% of our clients are referred from previous Divorce or Family law clients. Some are repeat clients. Sadly, since we have been doing Divorces for so long- we have actually divorced entire family members- aunts, uncles and brothers, sisters- mothers and fathers of former Divorce clients and this year children of former clients. Mr. Mastrodomenico is so well regarded that two matrimonial judges have referred their friends and family members to our firm to do their divorces.
Bar Admissions
- New York 1981
- Eastern and Southern Federal District Court 1981
Education
- Saint John’s University School of Law, Jamaica, New York
- Jurist Doctorate 1980
- Award Winner of Nationwide Family Law Client Advocate Competition 1978
- Moravian College Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
- Bachelor of Arts 1977
- Honors: Dean’s List every semester; Graduated Magna Cum Laude
- A chosen student to represent the Moravian college in Washington Semester Program at American University Washington D.C. 1976. Attended President Jimmy Carter inaugural ball.
Natalie Markfeld
Family Lawyer
Natalie Markfeld is a highly experienced attorney in divorce and family law matters. Ms. Markfeld has handled many complex divorce and family matters throughout New York State, and consistently achieves favorable results for her clients. While in law school, Ms. Markfeld served as an Associate Editor on Washington University School of Law’s Journal of Law and Policy.
In 2012, Ms. Markfeld founded the Family Law department at Daniella Levi & Associate, PC. Thereafter, she served as the managing partner there for 8 years, and still serves of-counsel to the office today. In 2020, Ms. Markfeld founded Markfeld Law. Ms. Markfeld’s priority is her client’s interests, and providing first-class representation to litigants in need at this delicate time in their lives.
Ms. Markfeld is a married mother of three and is fluent in Hebrew. Understanding the paramount importance of parenthood, Ms. Markfeld will fight to preserve your parental rights.
Ms. Markfeld has been selected to the New York Super Lawyers Rising Stars list in 2015 – 2019, and 2022. Each year, no more than 2.5% of the lawyers in the state are named to the Rising Stars list.
Desiree Claudio
Family Lawyer
Desiree M. Claudio is a proud native of Brooklyn, New York. Desiree has made roots in Queens, NY where she has raised her children and practiced law for over 10 years. Desiree M. Claudio is an established entrepreneur, an attorney and philanthropist with a demonstrated commitment to community development. Desiree is a graduate of Long Island University, Brooklyn campus. Following the completion of undergraduate courses with a major in Political Science, she continued her formal education earning her master’s degree at The New School in Non-profit management and Urban policy. An alumnus of Rutgers Newark School of Law Desiree Claudio is licensed to practice law in the State and Federal Courts of New York. Before starting her own law firm, Claudio & Associates, P.C. in 2010. Desiree served as a Superior Court Law Clerk to the Honorable John A. Jorgensen, J.S.C in the fast-paced Family Court in Middlesex County, N.J.
Desiree is an active member of several bar associations including being name as the Queens County bar associations class of 2026 Board of Managers and is on the board of the Latino Lawyers Association of Queens County. She has been recognized and awarded the coveted Super Lawyers award three (3) years consecutively and crowned Lawyer of Distinction in 2023.
Mrs. Claudio has been a sought-after keynote speaker and facilitator at numerous venues including but not limited to; Immigration and Family Law for Juveniles in the Queens, Latino Forums for a progressive Policy Agendas as well as the intersection of Divorce and Immigration at the National Trial Lawyers Summit in Miami Florida. In addition to Desiree’s commitment to her community and her clients, Mrs. Claudio has successfully built her practice from the ground up starting with only herself and one intern. In her current firm, Claudio and Associates, P.C., she leads a staff of over 15, including, 7 attorneys and 8 support staff. Through the years Mrs. Claudio has developed her entrepreneurial skill set, expanded her ability to create effective systems and to mentor, nurture and develop staff in a very unique way. These investments are the cornerstones and pillars of her success.
Maria Mateo
Family Lawyer
Maria Mateo founded Maria Mateo PC in 2010 and has been practicing law since. She received the Legal Master’s Degree from St. John’s University where she graduated with distinction.
Mrs. Mateo has spent her legal career concentrating in complex litigation cases. She is licensed to practice law in the State of New York and admitted to Federal Courts in the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York and the Supreme Court of the United States.
She has significant experience in various areas of her law practice including Immigration and Matrimonial Law. She handles family and work petitions as well as family matters such as divorces, child custody, child support pre and postnuptial agreements.
Mrs. Mateo is known for quality legal services, clients and organizations have recognized her for her advocacy skills, professionalism, and reliability.
Due to her ability to deliver her work with excellence Mrs. Mateo was recognized as 10 best immigration lawyer’s of New York in 2017 by the American Institution of Legal Counsel. She was also recognized as a 100 Bumble Business Most Influential People in NYC in 2018. Recently, Ms. Mateo was recognized by the Consulate of the Dominican Republic in New York with the Duarte Honors, also by New York City council members Hon. Eric A. Ulrich, Hon. Fernando Cabrera,Hon. Carmen De La Rosa, and Assemblyman Michael A. Blake for her outstanding work in the field of law and for contributing positively to the Dominican diaspora in New York.
Mrs. Mateo has given extensive presentations and held conferences on how foreign lawyers can obtain their credentials, and how to succeed in a competitive business environment. She has also, lobbied in the United States Congress, advocating to protect due process at the border and demanding accountability from USCIS.
DAVID SMOREN, ESQ
Family Lawyer
New York State Bar – 2005
Law School: New York Law School
2004 – Law Review Member
Undergraduate: City University of New York
2001 – Bachelor of Arts
Owner – The Law Offices of David Smoren, PLLC
- Divorce Filing & Representation
- Annulment & Separation
- Prenuptial / Marital Agreements
- All Family Court Matters
- Spousal & Child Support
- Child Custody
- Orders of Protection
Brandon Granados, Esq.
Family Lawyer
My name is Brandon Granados, Esq. and I was born and raised in Westchester County, NY. I am the first college and law school graduate in my family. I grew up in a bilingual household, raised by Latino parents who always taught me the value of family, honesty, and cultural pride. I am fluent in Spanish and am here to serve your legal needs.
I received my B.A. from the University of Delaware in 2012 where I was an active member in the student body as a competitor in the Mock Trial competitions, a member of Latin American student groups, and President of a martial arts club.
After graduating from the University of Delaware, I received my Juris Doctorate from St. John’s University School of Law where I was awarded the Pro Bono Award and the Salvador Cheda Scholarship for Outstanding Community Service for my work as the Street Law en Español Coordinator where I would work with judges and attorneys to organize and execute “Know Your Rights” presentations to the Latin American community throughout New York City.
I continued my passion for litigation by serving as an executive member of the Polestino Trial Advocacy Institute and competing with a trial team. My team placed 1st in an American Bar Association Criminal Justice Trial Advocacy Competition. I also had the privilege of coaching teams of law students in their own trial advocacy competitions to victory.
I first became involved with Family and Matrimonial law during law school when i held a judicial internship under a judge in Nassau County Family Court. This exposure to the family and matrimonial law field ignited my passion for the part of our legal system that directly affects peoples lives. I learned first hand how crucial a strong and capable attorney is to families and their intimate legal needs.
I am admitted to practice law in the state of New York and since I received my Juris Doctorate, I have primarily worked in the field of Matrimonial Law. Under the strict tutelage of my partner, Richard Beckerman, Esq., I have worked divorces ranging from simple no asset uncontested divorces to complex financial litigation divorces. I was taught in a firm that processed over 500 divorces a year, providing an invaluable source of experience and knowledge.
- I am a member of the Latino Lawyers Association of Queens County.
- I am a member of the New York County Lawyers Association and the Queens County Bar Association.
Sanders L. Denis Esq.
Family Lawyer
After leaving his post in 1995 as criminal prosecutor in the County of Queens, New York, he embarked in his mission as a private defense attorney, and has been serving his clients ever since. Sanders L. Denis is well respected and trusted by the multicultural communities that he serves. His services are sought by people from all walks of life, non immigrant and immigrants alike. Sanders L. Denis brings with him a great level of identity and understanding with his clients, not only because he is a true New Yorker, but because he knows the struggles that immigrants face as in order to overcome all obstacles and lead a normal live in this great USA.
How COVID-19 Can Affect Your Child Support
- Financial Strain on Parents: The pandemic has led to widespread job losses and reduced incomes, making it difficult for many parents to meet their child support obligations. With high unemployment rates, noncustodial parents (NCPs) may struggle to pay the required amounts, leading to potential arrears.
- Legal Obligations Remain: Despite financial hardships, child support obligations are still legally binding. Parents cannot simply stop payments without facing serious legal consequences, such as contempt of court or sanctions, which can include the loss of licenses or even jail time.
- Modification of Payments: If a parent faces financial difficulties, they should seek a modification of their child support order rather than ceasing payments. This can be done through an agreement with the other parent or by petitioning the court for a temporary modification. Evidence of reduced income and efforts to find employment will be necessary for the court’s consideration.
Government Assistance and Support
- CARES Act Stimulus Payments: The federal government provided stimulus payments to help individuals during the pandemic. However, these payments may be intercepted to cover past-due child support, which could affect the financial relief intended for parents.
- Child Support Agencies: Many state child support agencies have adapted to the pandemic by offering remote assistance. Parents can seek help with negotiations or filing legal documents through these agencies, even if in-person services are limited.
Table: Key Considerations for Child Support During COVID-19
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Financial Strain | Increased unemployment and reduced income for many parents. |
| Legal Obligations | Child support payments must continue; stopping payments can lead to legal penalties. |
| Modification Process | Parents can request temporary modifications based on financial hardship; court approval is needed. |
| Government Assistance | Stimulus payments may be garnished for child support arrears; agencies offer remote support. |
| Communication | Parents are encouraged to communicate and negotiate changes to support obligations amicably. |
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for parents regarding child support. While financial difficulties are common, it is essential for parents to understand their legal obligations and seek modifications if necessary. Utilizing available resources and maintaining open communication can help navigate this complex situation effectively.