Practice areas: Family Law; view more
Licensed in New York since: 1980
Education: Yeshiva University Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law
Selected to Super Lawyers: 2012 - 2025 Call today:
212-512-0810
Virtual Appointments Cohen Stine Kapoor LLP
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New York, NY 10036 Visit website
Details 
Attorney Martha Cohen Stine is a founding partner with Cohen Stine Kapoor LLP law firm in New York, New York. Nationally recognized as among the preeminent lawyers in the country, Ms. Stine has more than 40 years of total legal experience, and she focuses her practice almost exclusively on family law. A highly accomplished and effective lawyer, she provides unmatched counsel and support to clients throughout the New York City metro who are going through a divorce or have some other serious legal issues affecting their families.
A leader in her field, Ms. Stine routinely conducts lectures and continuing legal education seminars across her region, and she has been featured in several publications for her in-depth knowledge of the law. She also serves on the executive committee of the New York State Bar Association's Family Law Section and is the former chair of the New York County Lawyers Association's Matrimonial Law Section.
As an attorney, Ms. Stine has represented many high-profile, high net worth clients, including prominent businesspeople and executives, celebrities, real estate developers, and other professionals, and she has gained a reputation for her uncommon knowledge of the law as well as her unwavering dedication to those she serves. Honored for outstanding professionalism and service, she earned an AV-Preeminent peer review rating* from Martindale-Hubbell as well as perennial designation as one of the Top 50 Women Attorneys in New York.
A 1974 cum laude graduate of New York University, Ms. Stine attended Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, where she obtained her Juris Doctor cum laude in 1979. While there, she served as senior editor of the Cardozo Law Review, and she received recognition for her excellent academic achievements.
Along with maintaining a successful legal practice, Ms. Stine is also heavily involved with the theatre and the arts in her area, and she is a trained singer who has produced and directed a number of original musicals.
*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Rating™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.
Practice areas
Family LawFocus areas
Alimony & Spousal Support, Child Support, Divorce, Father's Rights, Marital Property, Mediation & Collaborative Law, Paternity, Prenuptial Agreements, Same Sex Family Law
- 100% Family Law
First Admitted: 1980, New York
Professional Webpage: https://www.csklawny.com/martha-cohen-stine
Bar / Professional Activity
- Executive Committee of the Family Law Section of the New York State Bar Association, 2024
- The New York State Bar Association, Family Law Committee Board Member, 2024
- Co-Chair, Matrimonial Law Section, New York County Lawyers Association ("NYCLA"), 2023
- The New York American Inn of Court, Executive Committee, 2022
- The New York Women's Bar Association, 2022
- Chair of the NYCLA Foundation, the charitable arm of NYCLA, 2021
- Board of Directors - New York County Lawyers Association ("NYCLA"), 2021
- New York City Bar Association Entertainment Committee, Chair, 2019
- City Bar Matrimonial Committee City and NYCBA Entertainment Committee
- City Bar Litigation Committee
Verdicts / Settlements (Case Results)
- Nederlander v. Nederlander, January 03, 2013
- Day v. Day At issue: The validity of a prenuptial agreement
Videos
- Martha Cohen Stine, founder of a matrimonial and family law firm, talks about why more couples are divorcing in their 50's and how to prepare for it. Interview January 3, 2025 on NY PIX11 News., Navigating Gray Divorce, Legal, 2025
- Dr. Drew interviews Martha Cohen Stine on the topic of Britney Spears' legal battle and conservatorship case., Did Conservatorship Help or Hurt Britney Spears?, Law, General Interest, 2024
- BronxNet TV David Lesch, host of "Today's Verdict," discusses conservatorships with Martha Cohen Stine, Today's Verdict, Legal, 2021
Pro bono / Community Service
- Member, Lotos Club Co-Chair of the Music Committee, 2025
- Board of Directors of The Lambs, America's oldest theatrical club, 2025
- Co-Chair of the NYCLA Foundation, 2022
- Represents clients in divorce and family law who cannot afford a lawyer, 2025
- Represents litigants in the area of family law , 2024
Educational Background
- Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law J.D., cum laude, 1979Cardozo Law Review, Senior Editor
- New York University (University College of Arts & Science), B.A., cum laude, 1974
White Papers
- Divorce is challenging for anyone, but when high net-worth individuals undergo divorce, the stakes are even higher. The complexities increase as divorcing parents not only need to address their personal and emotional needs but must also consider the welfare of their children amidst vast financial resources. High net-worth divorces often involve intricate asset divisions, significant child support determinations, and custody considerations that can become contentious. This guide aims to equip divorcing parents with insights into navigating child support and custody rulings in such scenarios. We will explore key aspects, from understanding high net-worth divorces to strategies for reaching a fair resolution. Understanding High Net-Worth Divorces High net-worth divorces are distinct due to the substantial financial assets involved. A divorce is typically considered high net worth when the combined assets exceed a million dollars. These assets could include multiple properties, investments, business interests, and luxury items, necessitating a meticulous approach to division. Asset division in these cases isn't just about splitting property—it involves evaluating the worth of each asset and understanding its future value. Furthermore, financial support for children becomes a priority, ensuring their standard of living remains uncompromised. Unique considerations such as trusts, and offshore accounts further complicate the process. The Role of an Attorney in High Net-Worth Divorces Engaging a high-net-worth divorce attorney helps you successfully navigate the complexities of a high-net-worth divorce. These attorneys possess specialized knowledge and experience in dealing with large estates and intricate financial details. They help in identifying all assets, and understanding tax implications for equitable distribution. Finding the right attorney involves assessing their experience with similar cases, understanding their approach, and gauging their communication style. A good attorney not only represents your interests but also provides emotional support and strategic advice to protect your financial future. Navigating Child Support in High Net-Worth DivorcesChild support in high net-worth divorces is calculated differently than in typical divorces due to the significant income and assets involved. The court considers various factors such as the child's lifestyle, educational needs, and healthcare requirements. The high net worth affects child support significantly, often resulting in higher payments to maintain the child's accustomed standard of living. Additionally, considerations like private schooling, extracurricular activities, and travel expenses are part of the equation, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and fair support plan. Custody Rulings in High Net-Worth Divorces Custody decisions in high net-worth divorces often extend beyond traditional considerations. While the child's best interest remains paramount, financial status plays a role in determining suitable custody arrangements. Parents with greater financial resources may argue for more time with their children, citing their ability to provide better opportunities. Custody arrangements could be joint, sole, or split, with the courts evaluating factors such as the child's relationship with each parent, the stability of the home environment, and the ability to meet the child's emotional and financial needs. Navigating these rulings requires careful consideration of both legal and personal aspects. Strategies for a Fair Resolution Achieving a fair resolution in high net-worth divorces involves strategic planning and open communication. Co-parenting effectively is vital, requiring both parents to set aside personal differences for the sake of their children. Consistency in parenting decisions, maintaining routines, and fostering a positive relationship between the child and both parents are necessary. Mediation and negotiation are valuable tools in reaching agreements without prolonged court battles. These processes enable parents to have more control over outcomes while reducing stress and time spent in court. A cooperative approach, supported by legal counsel, can lead to resolutions that benefit all parties involved. Financial Planning Post-Divorce After a high net-worth divorce, sound financial planning helps to maintain long-term stability. Create a comprehensive financial plan that addresses key aspects like budgeting, investment realignment, and future financial goals. Engaging financial advisors with expertise in wealth management can offer valuable insights into restructuring assets and ensuring a sustainable income flow. Additionally, updating estate plans and revisiting insurance policies can further protect one's financial legacy. A proactive approach toward financial management facilitates a smoother transition into post-divorce life, ensuring economic security and peace of mind. Protecting Children's Emotional Well-Being High net-worth divorces can significantly impact children's emotional well-being, necessitating deliberate efforts to provide stability and support. As parents navigate the complexities of asset division and custody arrangements, they need to prioritize open and honest communication with their children. Encouraging expression of feelings and offering consistent emotional support makes all the difference. Integrating professional counseling services for children can help them process changes and develop coping strategies. By fostering a supportive environment, parents can mitigate the psychological impact of divorce and nurture resilience, ultimately promoting their children's emotional health and long-term well-being. Let’s Connect and Take the Next Step! Navigating child support and custody rulings during a high net-worth divorce can be complex and emotionally draining. However, understanding the unique challenges and seeking professional guidance can lead to a more manageable process. Divorcing parents must prioritize their children's well-being and work towards fair solutions that provide financial stability and emotional security. By consulting experienced attorneys and employing effective strategies, parents can transition into the next chapter of their lives with confidence. For those seeking expert advice, reaching out to divorce professionals in New York such as Cohen Stine Kapoor LLP can provide the necessary support and clarity during this challenging time. Remember, you don't have to face this alone; help is just a phone call away., Navigating Child Support & Custody Rulings During a High Net-Worth Divorce, Legal, 2025
- The volatile stock market could be preventing unhappy couples from divorcing. Top divorce lawyer Martha Cohen Stine, who has represented Laurence Fishburne and Andrew Cuomo, said, “You may think that the strain of a bear market likely stresses marriages and leads to increased rates of divorce. “But in fact, a bad economy may deter the spouses from pursuing a divorce because the value of their assets has decreased and there is not enough money to fund two households. Lawyers call this the ‘affordability constraint.’ During tough economic times, the inability to sell homes, depleted savings, and job insecurity sometimes make splitting up a financial impossibility.” So think it through before you file for a divorce you might not be able to afford., Richard Johnson: Chelsea Clinton twins with daughter at ballet gala, Legal, 2025
- When you are preparing to get married, considering a prenuptial agreement may seem unromantic. After all, you don’t want to go into a marriage thinking about divorce. However, one of the benefits of a prenuptial agreement is that it can put clear guidelines in place from the start. If you are trying to shield certain property from being divided or valued in a divorce, a prenup defines each person’s personal property, which can not only help you hang onto family heirlooms and assets, but also shield you from the repercussions of your spouse’s debt. If things go awry, a prenuptial agreement may enable you to divorce more amicably, with clarity and civility. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits (or burdens) of a prenuptial agreement. What is a Prenuptial Agreement? A prenuptial agreement provides clarity regarding personal assets. It is a contract entered into between spouses prior to marriage, defining the assets that are to remain separate property, as well as setting forth the rights and responsibilities each spouse will have during the marriage. Sometimes, prenuptial agreements detail protection for future assets that will be separate property. Of course, not every asset will be separate, and in a marriage, there is also marital property, to be divided equitably (if under NY law, equally if under California’s) between spouses in case of divorce. By creating this kind of contract before your marriage, you ensure that your family heirlooms will remain in your possession, and your assets will not be lost if you should divorce. A prenuptial agreement reduces the number of unknowns, and provides that, if the marriage should end, the property, investments, and assets will be divided in the manner agreed upon before entering the marriage. It needs to be said, however, that usually a prenup is good for the “have” and not so good for the “have not”. Signing a Prenuptial Agreement: New York Laws Will New York courts honor your prenup, since it is often different from the way the law in New York would divide the property? In most cases, yes. As long as the prenuptial agreement is signed in the manner of a deed and is not “unconscionable,” i.e., not unfair in such a way that it is valid and can be enforced, Christian v. Christian, 42 N.Y.2d 63, 396 N.Y.S.2d 817, 365 N.E.2d 849 (N.Y. 1977). However, if one spouse believes that there was fraud involved in the prenuptial agreement, or that he or she was coerced into signing, he or she can contest the agreement, challenging its validity. Be aware, that each spouse should have a separate attorney when entering into a prenuptial agreement., The Benefits of Getting a Prenuptial Agreement, Law, 2025
Scholarly Lectures / Writings
- New York Daily News Halle Berry files for sole legal and physical custody of son Martha Cohen Stine August 19, 2024 New York Daily NewsBy Richard JohnsonPUBLISHED: August 18, 2024 Halle Berry spotted in Times Square on Thursday. Halle Berry has her hands full trying to deal with her ex-husband, actor OlivierMartinez, who originally gained fame in the 2002 film “Unfaithful” with DianeLane.He went on to make “Dark Tide” with Berry in 2012, The lovers were engaged andmarried that year and divorced in 2016. The ex-couple’s problems currently revolve around their 10-year-old son, Maceo.The parents share legal custody of the boy. However, this week, Berry filed for solelegal and physical custody of Maceo, according to TMZ, arguing Martinez will notaddress their son’s behavioral and learning difficulties. Top divorce lawyer Martha Cohen Stine told me, “Berry and Martinez aresupposed to make important decisions about Maceo together. But Berry claimsin court papers that Martinez has been making unilateral decisions regardingMaceo’s education and extracurricular activities, without her prior knowledgeor consent.” Another problem is that Berry has a boyfriend, singer Van Hunt, who hasbecome close to Maceo, Stine said. “It would come as no surprise to me if Martinez is threatened by Berry’s newman and his relationship with his son. This is why Berry wants Martinez toattend co-parenting therapy sessions.”, Commentator, Halle Berry files for sole legal and physical custody of son, New York Daily News, Legal, 2024
- APRIL 29, 2024RICHARD JOHNSON: Key to a happy divorce? Prenup, lawyers say.The new year won’t be happy for all the married folks who have been forced together by COVIDand are now headed toward divorce. Matrimonial lawyers I spoke to are expecting a bumper crop of cases as people discover they justcan’t stand their spouses. All these people are being forced to live together,” said Ken Jewell, who repped Libbie Mugrabiin her divorce from David Mugrabi, whose family’s art collection includes 800 Andy Warholartworks. Jewell, of Jewell Law, PLLC, said it’s most important for would-be spouses to sign a prenuptialagreement. “People who have a prenup can save a lot of money, as long as the prenup is handledproperly,” Jewell said. “I’ve been working on one eight months in advance of the wedding.” Jeff Bezos might agree. He had no prenup with wife MacKenzie Scott, who helped him foundAmazon and bore him four children. She’s now worth $67 billion. It could have been worse, since Bezos is worth $195 billion. “Lawyers who are smart tell their clients, ‘You are better off settling,'” said Marilyn Chinitz,of Blank Rome, whose clients have included Tom Cruise and Michael Douglas.“People are so overcharged with emotion, they don’t see the true costs.” Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai, was recently ordered by a London judge topay his sixth wife a $730 million divorce settlement. But what really got the attention of American lawyers was the legal bill he owes, $105 million.“It was a drop of water for him,” Chinitz said. “There’s a substantial amount of money outthere.”Martha Cohen Stine, who handled the divorces of talk show host WendyWilliams, actor Laurence Fishburne and former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, saysthere are ways to pinch pennies. Stine, of Cohen Stine Kapoor LLP, said,“The fees are highest if a divorce is litigated.” So stay out of court. Bill and Melinda Gates mostly avoided unpleasantness, as did rapper Kanye West and KimKardashian, and singer Adele and Simon Konecki. Billionaire and financier John Paulsen and wife Jenny have no prenup, and could be heading fora battle royale, as well as actor Sean Penn and ex-wife Leila George. Said one lawyer, “Monies are expended because of public stature.”, Commentator, Key to a Happy Divorce? Prenup, Lawyers Say., NY Daily News, Legal, 2024
- What Differentiates a High-Profile Divorce, with Harriet Newman Cohen and Martha Cohen Stine On this episode of Divorce Dialogues, Harriet and Martha join Katherine Miller to discuss the heightened issues around publicity and confidentiality associated with celebrity divorce October 22, 2021, Speaker, The Divorce Dialogues Podcast, Sound Cloud, Law, Divorce, Celebrity, 2021
- Authority Magazine Attorney Martha Cohen Stine Explores the Pros and Cons of Nesting February 10, 2022, Consultant, Pros and Cons of Nesting, Authority Magazine, Law, Families, Divorce, Custody, 2022
- New York Post He dumped me with divorce papers on Valentine’s Day Martha Cohen Stine discusses Valentine’s Day break-ups with Doree Lewak February 12, 2022, Commentator, He Dumped Me On Valentine's Day, New York Post, Law, Divorce, 2022
- Avenue Magazine Custody Isn’t Just for Kids: New Laws Set up Pet Custody Martha Cohen Stine advises working out an agreement is the best alternative, although a lawyer or mediator is sometimes necessary. July 22, 2022, Consultant, Custody Isn't Just for Kids: New Laws Set up Pet Custody, Avenue Magazine, Family Law/Matrimonial Law, 2022
- Martha Cohen Stine, family law attorney from Cohen Stine Kapoor LLP, is here to discuss what a conservatorship entails and shares examples from Britney Spears' case., Speaker, Today's Verdict with David Lesch, BronxNet TV, Legal, Guardianship, Conservatorship, 2021
- Page Six Do Bill and Melinda Gates have more secrets to come out amid divorce? Sara Nathan June 4, 2021 , Commentator, Do Bill and Melinda Gates have more secrets to come out amid divorce?, New York Post - Page Six, Divorce, Custody, Estate Planning, Celebrity, Law, 2021
- Conservatorships Like Britney Spears’ Can Be 'Civil Death Sentence' Family Law attorney Martha Cohen Stine / news analysis. “We don't take away people's civil rights just because they have a diagnosis of a mental health issue. When we see the laws being abused and when we see the abuse that can be inherent in guardianship and conservatorship proceedings, it's very stark and it's very shocking." July 1, 2021, Speaker, Conservatorships Like Britney Spears' Can be "Civil Death Sentence", Newsmax/America's News Page, Family Law, Conservatorships, Estate Law, Mental Health Law, 2021
- New York Times As Courts Reopen, Divorce Filings Are on the Rise Martha Cohen Stine and Harriet Newman Cohen discuss the recent rise in divorce filings September 9, 2021, Commentator, As Courts Reopen, Divorce Filings Are on the Rise, New York Times, Law, Families, Divorce, Custody, 2021
- New York County Lawyers News Release Amicus Curiae Podcast with Host Daniel Wiig: An in-depth conversation with two Matrimonial Law Powerhouses, Harriet Newman Cohen and Martha Cohen Stine May 28, 2021, Interviewee, Amicus Curiae Podcast with Host Daniel Wiig, New York County Lawyers Podcast Series, Law, Divorce, Custody, 2021
- NYC won’t recognize surrogate-born son’s actual parents, https://nypost.com/2016/01/29/nyc-wont-recognize-surrogate-born-sons-actual-parents/, 2016
- 5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me When I First Became An Attorney, Interview with Martha Cohen Stine of Cohen Stine Kapoor LLP, Interview, Important Life Lessons from Attorney Martha Cohen Stine, Authority Magazine, Divorce, Matrimonial, Custody, Family Law, 2021
- Liam Gallagher could owe baby mama a fortune, 2015
- "Give the Get!" -- judicial expert Stine comments in N.Y. Post, 2015
- New York Laws Vague About How Young Is Too Young To Leave Children Alone, 2014
- What Happily-Married Women Need to Know About Divorce, 2013
- Liam Gallagher Lover in custody war
- Martha Cohen Stine makes law in Appellate Division, First Department in Nederlander v. Nederlander, 102 A.D. 3d 416 (2013), case of first impression involving mortgages that matured during pendency of divorce action, https://static1.squarespace.com/static/58c7573e197aeab45143b5fd/t/591f486620099e365d77f73f/1495222374203/Nederlander+v+Nederlander.pdf
- Couple who plotted to bomb Washington Arch had a child, are in court fighting over visitation rights. Martha Cohen Stine represents the Gliedman family. Aaron Greene and Morgan Gliedman, who allegedly had a stash of explosives they planned to use to blow up the Washington Arch, are in court fighting over their child, who was born while Gliedman was under police watch, New York Magazine: Couple Who Plotted to Bomb Washington Square Arch - Grandparent Custody Rights, New York Daily News, 2013
- New York Magazine, KABOOM: Lawyer Martha Cohen Stine representing the Gliedmans in Family Court. Dalton and NYU graduate Morgan was granted, 2013
- NYPOST.com, EXCLUSIVE: Couple who plotted to bomb Washington Arch had a child...Martha Cohen Stine represents the Gliedman family, 2013
- New York Post, The accused “Bomb Mom” will now be able to watch over her baby as the newborn sleeps at night. Martha Cohen Stine, who represented the maternal grandparents, told The Post after the hearing: “She’s a great mom.”, 2013
- LINDSEY KUPFERMAN NEDERLANDER, plf-res, v. ERIC NEDERLANDER, def-ap Supreme Court, New York County (Deborah A. Kaplan, J.) ordered defendant to pay 50 percent of the balances owed on the mortgages on the marital residence, 2013
Other Outstanding Achievements
- Embryo Lawsuit Expert (Sofia Vergara case), 2016
- WPIX11 NY Featured News Interview January 2, 2025 Why are more couples divorcing in their 50s...and how to prepare for it.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lSoEyB92W5Q , 2025
Honors
- Top 50 Women Attorneys New York, 2017-2024, Top 50 Women Attorneys, New York, Super Lawyers, 2024
- Top 100 Lawyers in New York, Super Lawyers, 2024
- AV® Preeminent™, 2024 Peer Rated for Highest Level of Professional Practice, Martindale Hubbell, 2024
- Super Lawyers, 2012-2024, Super Lawyers, 2024
Industry Groups
- Alimony
- Custody
- Divorce
- High Net Worth Family Law Cases
- Paternity
- Postnups
- Prenups
- UCCJEA
Office location for Martha Cohen Stine
11 Times Square
10th Floor
New York, NY 10036
Phone: 212-512-0810
Selections
14 Years Super Lawyers
- Super Lawyers: 2012 - 2025
Top Lists
Top 100: New York — Metro Super Lawyers: 2022 - 2025- Top 50: 2025 Women New York — Metro Super Lawyers
- Top 50: 2024 Women New York — Metro Super Lawyers
- Top 50: 2023 Women New York — Metro Super Lawyers
- Top 50: 2022 Women New York — Metro Super Lawyers
- Top 50: 2021 Women New York — Metro Super Lawyers
- Top 50: 2020 Women New York — Metro Super Lawyers
- Top 50: 2019 Women New York — Metro Super Lawyers
- Top 50: 2018 Women New York — Metro Super Lawyers
- Top 50: 2017 Women New York — Metro Super Lawyers
