Family &
Private Client Services

JLG represents individuals and families in high-stakes family and private client matters, where legal strategy, financial considerations, and personal circumstances intersect. From marital agreements and divorce to custody, asset protection, and sensitive defense matters, we provide integrated counsel designed to preserve stability, protect assets, and manage risk. Our approach combines technical precision with discretion, ensuring each matter is handled with the care and attention it requires.

Family & Private Client Services

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Family and private client legal services address highly personal matters that often carry significant financial, legal, and emotional impact. In New York, these matters are governed by a combination of statutory law and court discretion, making strategic planning and experienced representation essential. JLG advises individuals and families across all stages, from proactive planning to dispute resolution, ensuring that rights, assets, and long-term interests are protected.

What Services Are Included in Family & Private Client Matters?

JLG provides comprehensive support across key areas, including:

Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
Contested and Uncontested Divorce
Child Custody & Child Support
Trust & Wealth Planning
Criminal Defense (Family-Related and General Matters)

What Is a Prenuptial Agreement and Why Is It Important in New York?

A prenuptial agreement is a legally binding contract entered into before marriage that defines how assets, debts, and financial matters will be handled during the marriage and in the event of divorce.

Prenuptial agreements must meet strict requirements to be enforceable, including:

Full financial disclosure by both parties
Voluntary execution without coercion
Proper signing and notarization

These agreements can address:

Division of property and separate vs. marital assets
Spousal support (maintenance)
Protection of business interests or family wealth

Properly structured agreements reduce uncertainty, prevent disputes, and provide clarity in the event of separation.

How Does the Divorce Process Work in New York?

Divorce in New York may be uncontested or contested, depending on whether the parties agree on key issues.

Uncontested Divorce

Both parties agree on property division, custody, and support
Typically faster and more cost-effective
Requires proper documentation and court approval

Contested Divorce

Disputes exist regarding finances, custody, or other terms
May involve court proceedings, discovery, and negotiations
Requires strategic legal representation to protect rights and assets

New York follows equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly (not necessarily equally), based on factors such as income, contributions, and future needs.

How Are Child Custody and Support Determined in New York?

Child custody and support decisions in New York are based on the best interests of the child.

Child Custody

Legal custody: decision-making authority (education, healthcare, etc.)
Physical custody: where the child resides

Courts consider factors such as:

Each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment
Parenting history and involvement
The child’s needs and, in some cases, preferences

Child Support

Child support is calculated under statutory guidelines, taking into account:

Combined parental income
Number of children
Custody arrangements

Courts may deviate from guidelines depending on specific circumstances.

What Is Included in Trust & Wealth Planning?

Trust and wealth planning focuses on preserving assets, managing risk, and ensuring efficient transfer of wealth across generations.

Services may include:

Creation of revocable and irrevocable trusts
Asset protection strategies
Estate planning and wealth transfer structures
Planning for tax efficiency and long-term control of assets

In New York, careful structuring is particularly important due to estate tax considerations and probate procedures.

How Does Criminal Defense Relate to Family & Private Client Matters?

Criminal matters can intersect with family law issues and significantly impact personal and professional life. These may include:

Domestic-related allegations
Protective orders and related proceedings
Financial or business-related criminal matters affecting family assets

We provide strategic defense aimed at protecting legal rights while minimizing collateral consequences on family, immigration status, and reputation.

Why Is Legal Strategy Important in Family & Private Client Matters?

Family-related legal matters often involve overlapping issues—financial, personal, and sometimes criminal or immigration-related. Poor handling can lead to long-term consequences affecting assets, custody rights, and legal status.

At JLG, we take a comprehensive and strategic approach, combining careful planning with strong advocacy when disputes arise. Our goal is to protect our clients’ interests, preserve stability, and provide clear, practical guidance through complex and sensitive situations.

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