How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Buffalo, NY (Complete Step-by-Step Guide)

Divorcing without a lawyer in Buffalo is absolutely possible — and for many Erie County couples, it’s the most affordable and straightforward path to ending a marriage. New York allows spouses to represent themselves (“pro se”), and the Erie County Supreme Court provides a clear process to complete an uncontested divorce without hiring an attorney.

This guide explains how to divorce without a lawyer in Buffalo, including New York’s requirements, paperwork, court procedures, timelines, and when legal help may still be needed.

Can You Really Divorce Without a Lawyer in Buffalo, NY?

Yes. Many couples in Buffalo finalize their divorce without ever hiring an attorney — especially when the case is uncontested.

A DIY divorce is a strong option if:

• You and your spouse agree on all major issues

• Your assets and finances are straightforward

• There is little or no conflict

• You want to avoid attorney fees that often exceed $10,000–$25,000

• You prefer a simple, affordable process

You can always consult an attorney if complications arise, but most straightforward divorces in Erie County are fully manageable without one.

New York’s Requirements for Filing Without a Lawyer

Before filing in Buffalo, you must meet New York’s statewide requirements.

1. Residency Requirement

You must meet one of the following:

• You or your spouse lived in New York for 2 continuous years, OR

• You or your spouse lived in New York for 1 continuous year and:

  • You were married in New York, OR

  • You lived in New York as a married couple, OR

  • The grounds for divorce occurred in New York

• Both spouses live in New York at the time of filing

2. Grounds for Divorce

Most uncontested divorces use the no-fault ground:

• Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage for 6+ months

No additional proof is needed.

How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Buffalo — Step by Step

1. Gather Required New York Divorce Forms

Common forms for an uncontested divorce include:

• Summons With Notice or Summons + Verified Complaint

• Notice of Automatic Orders

• Notice Concerning Health Care Coverage

• Affidavit of Service

• Sworn Statement of Removal of Barriers to Remarriage

• Settlement Agreement (Stipulation)

• Note of Issue

• Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law

• Judgment of Divorce

• USC-111 (confidential)

• Child support documents (if children)

Erie County Local Notes

Erie County Supreme Court may require:

• Additional notarizations

• Blue backs

• Multiple signed originals

• Child support enforcement forms

• A completed Request for Judicial Intervention (RJI), depending on case type

Divorce.com prepares all required NY + county-specific forms.

2. File Your Papers With the Erie County Supreme Court

Erie County Supreme Court – Hall of Justice
25 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14202

Filing Fee

• $335 total for NY uncontested divorce
  (includes Index Number + Note of Issue fee)

You may file:

• In person

• By mail

• Online (for Index Number purchase only)

3. Serve Your Spouse Correctly

New York requires personal service unless your spouse signs an Affidavit of Defendant.

Acceptable methods:

• Professional process server

• Non-party adult over 18

• Sheriff’s civil division (in some counties)

After service, file:

• Affidavit of Service

• Related proof documents

If your spouse signs the Affidavit of Defendant, things move much faster.

4. Exchange Necessary Financial Information

Although NY doesn’t require a formal statewide “financial affidavit,” full disclosure is still required in:

• Your settlement agreement

• Child support worksheets

• Findings of Fact

Providing complete financial information prevents delays in Erie County.

5. Complete Your Settlement Agreement (Stipulation of Settlement)

Your agreement must explain how you and your spouse will handle:

• Property division

• Debt allocation

• Custody and visitation

• Child support (mandatory for minor children)

• Spousal support (if any)

• Insurance, taxes, and other obligations

Erie County judges require clear, detailed terms before signing the Judgment of Divorce.

Divorce.com guides couples through creating a complete, court-ready settlement.

6. Submit Your Final Uncontested Divorce Packet

Your final documents usually include:

• Note of Issue

• Findings of Fact & Conclusions of Law

• Judgment of Divorce

• Settlement Agreement

• Certificates and notices

• Child support documents (if applicable)

• Affidavit of Regularity

• Inquest Affidavit

The Erie County clerk reviews the packet first, then forwards it to the judge.

Most uncontested cases do not require a hearing unless the judge requests clarification.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Buffalo?

Typical timeline:

• 2–6 months from filing to final judgment

• Faster if all documents are complete and your spouse cooperates

• Longer if service is delayed or paperwork needs correction

Erie County’s processing time is similar to other major New York counties.

How Much Does It Cost to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Buffalo?

Typical DIY costs include:

• $335 court filing fees

• $40–$100 process server fees

• $0 if preparing your own forms

• $499–$1999 using Divorce.com for form prep + settlement agreement

Hiring a Buffalo divorce lawyer often costs $12,000–$25,000+, making DIY divorce significantly more affordable.

When You May Still Need a Lawyer

Legal help may be useful if:

• Domestic violence or safety issues are present

• A spouse hides income or assets

• You own a business or significant real estate

• Custody battles are likely

• One spouse refuses to sign or cooperate

For cooperative couples, an uncontested divorce in Buffalo is straightforward without attorneys.

Why Buffalo Couples Choose Divorce.com

Divorce.com helps New York families:

• Prepare all Erie County–specific and statewide forms

• Build a complete settlement agreement

• Avoid costly filing mistakes

• Navigate New York service and filing rules

• Access optional attorney support when needed

It’s the most affordable, efficient way to complete a no-lawyer divorce in Buffalo.

Final Thoughts

Divorcing without a lawyer in Buffalo, NY is fully achievable — especially if your case is uncontested and communication is cooperative. With the right forms, solid financial disclosures, and a thorough settlement agreement, you can finalize your divorce affordably and efficiently through the Erie County Supreme Court.

Divorce.com provides everything you need to file and complete your Buffalo divorce from start to finish.