Marital Lawyer vs. Matrimonial Attorney: Understanding the Difference

Most people do not know who to talk to when you have family law problems such as divorce or marital issues. The terms “marital lawyer” and “matrimonial attorney” are synonymous, but there are distinctions that can make a massive difference in the legal assistance you receive. In this blog, we are going to discuss the difference between a marital lawyer and a matrimonial attorney and why you should know who to retain when you need legal assistance in Suffolk County, Nassau County, or Long Island.

What is a Marital Lawyer?

A marital attorney is a legal professional who handles various matrimonial matters. These may be prenuptial agreements, postnuptial agreements, separation agreements, property disputes in marriage, etc. While “marital attorney” is not a prevalent term among legal professionals, it generally refers to an attorney who handles legal issues related to marriages—whether it is maintaining a marriage or handling the problems of ending one.

Marriage attorneys can counsel on resolving issues that arise in marriage, such as financial matters, domestic conflicts, and even divorce. However, they may not understand how to handle the complex divorce cases or all the issues that arise in separation and divorce. Some marriage attorneys may assist couples in resolving their issues or counsel them on their legal remedy so they won’t have to break up, while others may only help in drafting legal papers.

What is a Matrimonial Lawyer?

A matrimonial lawyer primarily handles divorce, legal separation, and other issues at the end of a marriage. It is a specialized field of law that demands thorough acquaintance with the family laws of New York, i.e., how to distribute marital property, arrange child custody, and deal with alimony or spousal support, as well as child support. Matrimonial lawyers understand how to counsel clients with contested divorce and uncontested divorce and the judicial procedures involved in them.

In Suffolk County, Nassau County and Long Island, individuals will frequently hire a matrimonial attorney when they are divorced or in the process of separating. They are familiar with negotiations and proceedings in court and can guarantee clients that their rights are taken care of and the outcome is as favorable as possible. Matrimonial attorneys can assist with post-divorce issues such as modifications of support payments or enforcing custody decrees.

Key Differences Between Marital Lawyers and Matrimonial Lawyers

Although both types of legal professionals deal with cases related to marriage, there are some significant differences that you should keep in mind:

1. Area of Specialty

A matrimonial attorney specializes in issues related to marriage itself. This involves counseling on maintaining a healthy marriage and drafting legal documents like pre- or postnuptial agreements. But if you have a divorce or separation case, you will likely need the services of a matrimonial attorney familiar with the law of divorce.

A matrimonial lawyer is a divorce and separation expert. They are very well aware of the complex divorce laws, such as the distribution of property, the custody of the children, and support issues. They are especially equipped to handle contentious cases, which are usually brought to court and are often emotionally charged.

2. Information Regarding Divorce Cases

If you’re divorcing or separating, a matrimonial lawyer will have the experience to handle the intricacies of divorce cases. Regardless of whether your divorce is friendly or hostile, a matrimonial lawyer will take you through mediation, negotiation, and, if it comes down to it, litigation.

Suppose your marriage is on the rocks, but you’re not yet prepared to divorce. In that case, a marital attorney can assist you with alternatives such as a separation agreement or resolving matrimonial conflicts. However, divorce attorneys are more trained to deal with all divorce issues.

3. Having an Attorney in Court

Matrimonial lawyers are trained to appear in court on behalf of clients, but marital lawyers might not be as adept at this. If your divorce case has implications concerning property, child custody, or spousal support, you will require a lawyer to appear in court before a judge. Matrimonial lawyers can fight your rights in divorce court, which is valuable if a judge hears your case.

4. Knowledge of Local Laws

A matrimonial attorney practicing in Suffolk County, Nassau County, or Long Island will be aware of local law, procedure, and the local courts in the area. They will be aware of how judges in the area rule on divorce-related matters, like child custody or property division. They can provide you with local custom and precedent-based counsel.

Marital lawyers know matrimonial issues but may not be as well aware of family court practice or the details of divorce law in your state.

Why would you require a Long Island Marital Lawyer?

Suppose you’re dealing with a divorce or serious marital issue in Suffolk County, Nassau County, or anywhere else on Long Island. In that case, you must seek assistance from an attorney who’s well-versed with the particular divorce laws of your region. No matter, if you concern yourself with child custody, alimony, or the division of marital property, having a divorce law attorney on your side, ensures that you receive excellent advice that is expert and judicious.

Shawn R. Kassman specializes in marriage law and has significant experience assisting individuals and families on Long Island through divorce. Suppose you prefer a peaceful resolution with mediation or require forceful representation in court. In that case, we are prepared to safeguard your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Need Legal Assistance? Contact Us Today! 631-232-9479,

Whether you’re dealing with Parental Rights Child Support and Neglect Proceedings, Visitation Proceedings, Wills Trust and Estates Law, Uncontested Divorce, Criminal Law, Divorce, Family Law, Estate Administration, Real Estate Law, Traffic Tickets, Real Estate & Landlord Tenant Law, Traffic Violations, DWI / DUI – Driving While Intoxicated, Driving With Suspended License issues, or need expert legal guidance throughout Suffolk County and Nassau County, the Law Office of Shawn Kassman is here to help. Visit us at: 83 Carleton Ave., Central Islip, NY 11722