New York City Divorce Lawyer | Robert G. Smith, PLLC

Every client should be proud of the very important work we do together. Robert G. Smith

To be a premier New York City divorce lawyer of choice the core principle of my law firm has always been that a bigger legal team is not stronger, or smarter, or more efficient.

For over 40 years, I have honed my legal skills and focused my talents as a gifted advocate throughout the New York City metropolitan area and the Hudson Valley. I have successfully litigated and negotiated many high profile divorce cases, including my share of divorce assignments for and against celebrities and prominent public figures. I have also been defense counsel in high profile criminal prosecutions.

The divorce lawyer's matrimonial engagement should begin with the end in mind, guided by a strong committment to the client's interests. My philosophy, which has been honed over 40 years of successful settlement negotiations, and contested trials, is that the appearance of expertise which arises from the presence of large numbers of expensive lawyers is not the best methodology to predict a favorable outcome for what is often a very challenging life event for the divorce client.

My broad range of experience, skill and sound professional judgment is supported by the state-of-the-art boutique law offices I have personally designed and refined to yield results for the client which are demonstrably superior. These are some of my credentials:

Hundreds of cases tried. Hundreds more settled. For a variety of reasons, the challenge in a family law case is often to bring the other side to the table. Since I am an expert in the courtroom, my clients are well protected and our adversary will have a strong motivation to settle on fair and reasonable terms.
The client benefits from my focus and precision in the application of the operative legal principles and critical facts. After 40 years I will already have a fairly accurate assessment of the likely terms and provisions of the final result.

An AV Preeminent rating* by Martindale-Hubbell.I have received the highest peer review rating by Martindale-Hubbell for 25 years in a row. That professional rating presupposes not only technical expertise, but the highest ethical ratings as well.
Credibility. Respect. Media recognition. I have achieved significant recognition and respect in the Courts, having served on Court approved panels for the neutral evaluation of matrimonial cases in Manhattan, criminal defense assignments for felony and homicide cases (in Kings County), court assignments for the representation of children in Manhattan and fiduciary court assignments. I currently sit on the Matrimonial Committee of the New York City Bar Association as well as the Supreme Court Committee of the New York County Lawyers Association. I also maintain membership in all major bar associations. Over the years I have appeared on numerous television networks. The respect I have earned when I walk into a courtroom enables my clients to put their best foot forward on the journey we plan to conclude successfully.
Super Lawyers top-rated attorney. Because of my significant achievements, for ten years in a row, I have been selected by my peers as a top family attorney in Super Lawyers.
Documented success and satisfaction. My accomplishments also include success in several notable appellate cases. As attested in the sampling of 18 client testimonials, from actual cases that presented real challenges, which are detailed in this website, demonstrates a high degree of client satisfaction.

My Pledge To You

This may be your first divorce or family law conflict involving children of the marriage. Not mine. You may well be under emotional stress. I take pride in remaining objective and achieving pragmatic solutions for my clients. I will never deign to act as your therapist or spiritual adviser. Nor will I judge you or second-guess your values.

What I will pledge is to dedicate my skills, energy and professional judgment to protecting your interests and achieving the best outcome.

I will stay objective and set rational expectations. I will not entertain or accommodate unrealistic or unnecessary conflict. If there is a dispute with the other side, I will effectively and aggressively advocate for you, and I will do so strategically. When Court appearances are required you will be well prepared and you will respect my expertise and versatility in the Court room.

Dispute resolution in the context of a divorce assignment is often like a chess game, which is also zero sum exercize. Think of me as a devoted grandmaster, who studies the chess board and does not prolong the process to generate more legal fees.

Get The Help You need

If you would like to talk with me, call my office in Manhattan at 212-499-0940 or contact me online.

Bold labels are required.

Experience. Knowledge. Sound Judgment.

Every client should be proud of the very important work we do together. Robert G. Smith

Recognized For His Commitment To His Client's Interests, Robert G. Smith's Goal Is To Be The Preferred Lawyer Of Choice For Matrimonial Assignments That Merit Special Care And Attention.

My Pledge To You

"I believe in my heart that my children will have a better life because I fought for and won custody. For that I am grateful to Robert Smith." - SR

Get The Help You need