Business Details
46 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Family Law Solutions
Samuelson Hause PLLC is a distinguished family law firm with over a century of combined legal expertise, specializing in divorce, child custody, and high-net-worth cases. Founded by Elliot Samuelson, a nationally recognized matrimonial attorney with 40+ years of experience, the firm combines extensive litigation skills with compassionate client advocacy. Our team, including attorneys listed in Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers, prioritizes strategic solutions tailored to each client's unique needs.Accredited by the BBB and holding an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, we serve Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, Manhattan, and Brooklyn, offering both courtroom representation and mediation services. Client testimonials highlight our professionalism, responsiveness, and ability to navigate complex legal challenges with integrity.
Services
Divorce Litigation
Child Custody
Spousal Maintenance
Divorce Mediation
High Net Worth Cases
Prenuptial Agreements
Child Support
Domestic Violence
Equitable Distribution
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- Over 100 years of combined experience in family law
- AV Preeminent rated for legal ethics and practice
- Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as Tier 1 Family Law Firm
- Three attorneys listed in New York Super Lawyers
- Accredited by BBB for ethical legal practices
Associations and certifications
- Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- Martindale-Hubbell
- American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML)
- Best Lawyers in America
What people say
Listen well and give excellent advice
Knowledgeable and caring
Best divorce attorney
Professional and effective
Provided peace of mind
Services
Divorce Litigation
Our attorneys specialize in contested divorce cases requiring courtroom representation. With over 100 years of combined experience, we provide aggressive litigation strategies while maintaining ethical standards. We handle complex asset division, custody battles, and high-conflict separations, ensuring client interests are protected through trial and appellate processes. Our team's track record includes successful outcomes in Nassau and Suffolk County courts.
Child Custody
We advocate for clients in custody disputes, focusing on children's best interests. Our approach combines legal expertise with sensitivity to family dynamics. Services include creating parenting plans, modifying existing arrangements, and representing clients in contested custody trials. We work with forensic experts to build strong cases while maintaining amicable post-divorce relationships where possible.
Spousal Maintenance
Our firm provides strategic guidance on spousal support matters, including temporary and permanent maintenance. We analyze financial complexities in high-net-worth cases and negotiate fair arrangements. When necessary, we litigate to ensure proper calculations based on New York's guidelines and advocate for modifications when circumstances change.
Divorce Mediation
Certified mediators help couples resolve divorce issues amicably. This cost-effective alternative to litigation covers property division, custody, and support agreements. Our mediators maintain neutrality while ensuring legal compliance, with over 80% of mediated cases reaching successful resolution without court intervention.
High Net Worth Cases
Specialized representation for clients with significant assets, including business valuations, stock options, and international holdings. Our team collaborates with forensic accountants to ensure accurate asset tracing and equitable distribution. We protect client interests in cases involving prenuptial agreements, tax implications, and multi-jurisdictional complexities.
People
Elliot D. Samuelson
Founding Partner, Retired
With over 40 years of experience, Elliot Samuelson is a nationally recognized matrimonial attorney. He authored four legal treatises and 100+ professional articles. Former president of New York AAML, he remains a sought-after legal commentator and lecturer.
Wendy B. Samuelson
Owner
A Super Lawyers honoree, Wendy Samuelson specializes in complex divorce cases. With decades of courtroom experience, she focuses on child custody and high-stakes financial negotiations, maintaining a client-centric approach praised in 80+ five-star reviews.
Tracy A. Hawkes
Associate
Experienced family law attorney focusing on mediation and collaborative divorce. Recognized for compassionate client advocacy, Tracy specializes in helping clients navigate sensitive negotiations while maintaining emotional well-being throughout the legal process.
Questions
What can I do to protect myself from my spouse's malicious financial maneuvers?
Gather financial documents, consult about automatic restraining orders, and consider freezing joint accounts. Our attorneys help implement protective measures during initial consultations.
Will marital fault be considered in my New York divorce?
New York is no-fault state, but egregious conduct like abuse may impact economic outcomes. Most cases focus on equitable distribution rather than marital fault.
What property is not subject to equitable distribution?
Separate property includes pre-marital assets, inheritances, gifts from third parties, and personal injury awards. Our attorneys help classify and protect these assets during divorce proceedings.
How is child support calculated in New York?
Support follows Child Support Standards Act guidelines (17-35% of combined income based on child count) with court discretion for high-income cases and special needs.
Can I modify existing child support or alimony orders?
Yes, modifications are possible with significant changes in income, employment status, or child needs. We help clients seek or challenge modifications based on current circumstances.
What if I can't afford attorney fees?
We may negotiate payment plans or limited-scope representation. Courts can also order fee contributions from higher-earning spouses in certain situations.
