Albany Separation Agreement Lawyer
Serving Clients Throughout Upstate New York
A Separation Agreement can provide essential structure and protection when your marriage encounters serious difficulties, but you and your spouse are not yet ready to divorce. At Andrew H. Wood, Esq., PLLC, we help individuals and families in Albany and the surrounding counties navigate this crucial legal tool with clarity and confidence.
Drafting or reviewing a Separation Agreement should not be handled without skilled legal guidance. When retained, we work closely with you to thoroughly address every critical legal issue to protect your rights and interests.
Attorney Wood takes the time to understand your unique situation, address your questions and concerns, and advocate for your goals in negotiations and the formal agreement drafting.
Contact Andrew H. Wood, Esq., PLLC online or call (518) 712-6685 for guidance from our Albany separation agreement attorney.
What Is a Separation Agreement in New York?
A Separation Agreement is a legally binding contract between spouses who have decided to live apart. It outlines each party's rights and responsibilities during the separation period and often lays the foundation for future divorce proceedings.
While some couples use a Separation Agreement as a step toward eventual divorce, others use it to remain legally married while living independently, sometimes for personal, financial, or religious reasons.
In New York, a Separation Agreement can be filed with the court, and after one year of living apart under its terms, either party may use it as grounds for a no-fault divorce.
Trusted By Families Across the Capital Region
Real Experiences. Real Results.
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“Andrew is professional, smart, and well respected by his colleagues. He eased my anxieties and fears. He handled my case with compassion and integrity and achieved a favorable result.”- Former Client
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“He got me through a very tough time -- and all in a very humane, validating and intelligent way -- and he got me what I required to have a serene and painless legal separation.”- Manish V.
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“During my divorce and child custody proceedings, Andrew was always available for me and kept me calm and focused during a most difficult time in my life. He treated me like a friend not a client.”- Joe G.
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“Andrew is an outstanding attorney. He understands his client's needs, he is respectful of your time and he doesn't waste it. He always had a sense of my priorities and I am so very thankful for the outcome.”- Former Client
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“Mr. Wood guided me through every step of the divorce process with patience and understanding, and made the process much more streamlined and manageable than I ever could have imagined.”- Amy S.
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“I immediately knew Andrew was the perfect person for my case. As you can imagine, the divorce was emotional and difficult but Andrew was so compassionate and understanding. Honestly, he went above and beyond.”- Former Client
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“He puts you at ease right away. I never felt judged for showing emotions or when needing information explained differently. There was no pressure to settle a particular way and he was fully capable and confident to go to trial.”- Former Client
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“I would highly recommend Andrew H. Wood for anyone going through a divorce. His confidence in handling this matter is evident throughout one of the most difficult situations life can throw at you.”- Brian S.
What Issues Must Be Addressed in a Separation Agreement?
A well-drafted Separation Agreement will cover all major aspects of the parties' lives, including:
- Division of assets and debts
- Spousal support (alimony)
- Child custody and visitation arrangements
- Child support obligations
- Health insurance and medical expenses
- Life insurance coverage
- Tax considerations
- Responsibility for household expenses or debts
The agreement can be tailored to the couple's needs and goals, offering flexibility and clarity during an emotionally difficult time.
Requirements for a Legally Binding Separation Agreement
For a Separation Agreement to be enforceable under New York law, it must meet several requirements.
- Written form: It must be in writing, not just an oral agreement.
- Signed and acknowledged: Both parties must sign the agreement and acknowledge their signatures before a notary public.
- Full disclosure: Each party must provide honest and complete disclosure of their financial information.
- Voluntary agreement: The agreement must be entered into freely, without coercion, fraud, or duress.
A properly executed Separation Agreement carries the same weight as a court order. If the couple later decides to end the marriage legally, it can be incorporated into a divorce judgment.
Contact Andrew H. Wood, Esq., PLLC for Help Today
Whether you seek to separate amicably or need assistance negotiating and drafting complex terms, Attorney Wood can help. He has been representing family law clients in and around Albany since 2006 with proven competence.
Call (518) 712-6685 or complete our online contact form to schedule a consultation with our Albany separation agreement attorney.
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Client-Centered & Honest
From your consultation to the final outcome, we prioritize clear communication and collaboration.
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Thorough and Detail-Oriented
Every case is custom-tailored with care, precision, and a commitment to getting it right for your family.
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Respected & Experienced
With over 18 years of legal experience and multiple awards, Andrew Wood has a track record of trust.
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Compassionate Advocacy
You'll get a personal, empathetic approach, but when it’s time to fight, we're strategic and prepared.