What documentation is needed to file for a divorce in New York?

To initiate a divorce in New York, the necessary documentation fundamentally includes the summons and the complaint, which are essential components of the divorce pleadings. The summons notifies the other spouse of the divorce action, while the complaint outlines the grounds for the divorce and any relevant claims pertaining to child custody, support, or property distribution.

Additionally, any required financial disclosures must be submitted, as these documents are critical for the court to assess the financial circumstances of both parties. Financial disclosures typically include statements regarding income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. This requirement ensures that the court has a complete understanding of the financial situation to make informed decisions regarding equitable distribution and any support obligations.

While other options may mention documents such as a marriage certificate or witness statements, these are not the foundational documents needed to file for a divorce. A marriage certificate might indeed be requested later in the process to verify the marriage, but it is not part of the initial filing requirements. Similarly, while notarized agreements and proof of separate residences may be relevant in certain contexts (such as in collaborative divorce scenarios or custody agreements), they are not standard requirements at the initial filing stage.

Thus, the inclusion of the summons, complaint, and the necessary financial disclosures represents a clear and accurate understanding of what