- DivorceOur firm has extensive experience in divorce law and can provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to navigate the process.
- Child SupportThis link will allow you to see what materials you will need in order to file a divorce when dealing with Child Support.
- Adoption
- GuardianshipWhen a person is no longer able to care for themselves, New York law allows the court to appoint a guardian who can make decisions on their behalf. This is applicable for both minors and incapacitated adults. The court expects guardians to act in the best interest of the ward they are representing. If you are considering obtaining legal guardianship for a minor or an incapacitated adult, it is important to understand that you will need to file a petition with the court and complete the necessary evaluation process. Our attorneys can guide you through this complex process and help ensure that the best interests of the ward are protected.
- Criminal DefenseFollowing his work as an assistant district attorney, Mr. Cotter joined his mother, Roseann F. DiVernieri, Esq., at DiVernieri, DiVernieri, and Cotter, LLP. Mr. Cotter specializes in criminal defense matters, real estate, probate and administration of estates, and estate planning.
- DUI/DWI
- Real Estate LitigationOur attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of this real estate law including a wide range of topics, from property ownership to zoning regulations. Learn More
- Real Estate TransactionsIn 1983, Ms. DiVernieri was joined at the firm by her husband and law partner, Theodore J. G. Cotter, Esq. A general practitioner Ms. DiVernieri practices in the areas of probate and administration of estates, estate planning, matrimonial and family law, business formations, and real estate transactions.
- Land Use and Zoning
- Medicaid PlanningUpon graduation, Ms. Drucker joined her aunt and cousin at DiVernieri, DiVernieri & Cotter, LLP where she focuses on matrimonial and family law, probate and administration of estates, guardianships, and Medicaid planning. She is a member of the Richmond County Bar Association and the Prefer to Refer Chapter of BNI: Business Networking International.
- Estate PlanningIncluding a POA in your comprehensive estate plan is vital. At DiVernieri, DiVernieri and Cotter, LLP, we have assisted numerous Staten Island-area clients in obtaining the necessary estate planning documents. Our team will examine your financial situation and advise you on the types of POA documents that will best serve your interests. Reach out to us today to arrange your initial consultation.
- WillsTestamentary trust: created through the last will and testament and can be used to provide for minor children.
- TrustsWhen a loved one passes away and has created a trust, there will need to be a trust administration process. Administering a trust can seem overwhelming, especially if you have never undertaken that process before. If you’ve been named as a trust administrator by a friend or a loved one, you have a long road ahead of you. Even if the trust agreement is explicit and an experienced lawyer sets up the trust, every trust is different. You may encounter challenges to the trust agreement from beneficiaries.
- Power of AttorneyIn the event of an injury or medical emergency, it's crucial to consider who will make decisions on your behalf. To safeguard yourself, you can establish a power of attorney (POA). A POA is a legal instrument that empowers you to designate an agent to act on your behalf if you become incapacitated. There are various types of POAs, each serving a specific purpose, such as handling healthcare or financial matters.
- ProbateIt's essential to keep in mind that wills need to go through probate, a court-supervised process that involves administering and distributing the estate assets. Although state probate law aims to streamline the process, there are specific requirements that must be met before closing the estate. Additionally, probate exposes your will to public scrutiny, which some clients may prefer to avoid. Therefore, in addition to having a will, many of our clients can benefit from setting up trusts to ensure their assets are appropriately distributed.
- Tax LawTypically, the settlor creates the trust while still alive and names themselves as the trustee. Later, they appoint a new trustee who will be responsible for administering the trust upon their death. Trust administration encompasses the resolution of intricate estate matters and involvement in post-mortem income tax planning.