Whether negotiating the terms of your divorce in the conference room or arguing on your behalf in a courtroom, matrimonial trial attorney Ellen Holtzman is a powerful and experienced advocate. Persuasive and thorough, Ellen is a New York family lawyer with a reputation for addressing every point and delivering successful outcomes. She has successfully tried matrimonial and family law cases in Supreme Courts throughout the state. Ellen has also argued and prevailed in numerous appeals in the First Department and the Second Department of the Supreme Court of the State of New York. In addition, Ellen has achieved favorable results for her clients in international child custody cases -- the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction cases -- which are heard in the federal courts.

Wide Range of Family Law Experience
While Ellen Holtzman is recognized for having established an impressive record of results in the litigation of complex divorce and custody cases, her law practice covers the full range of matrimonial and Family Law matters. From adoptions to asset distribution, from no-fault divorce to child support, from prenuptial agreements to paternity actions, and from domestic partnerships to post-judgment enforcement -- Ellen and her associates are dedicated to excellence. They have achieved a record of success in every area of family law practice. You can learn more about the wide range of Ellen's areas of practice here.

A Record of Results in Complex Custody Cases
Ellen Holtzman is a leading matrimonial trial lawyer who is well known throughout the New York metropolitan region for her skill in handling complex family law matters. Ellen has successfully represented both men and women in their efforts to obtain legal and physical custody of their children. She has also prevailed in the federal courts with complex international child custody cases under the Hague Convention. Ellen is a sought-after speaker at major symposia and conferences on "The Best Interests of the Child" and other child custody issues. Today, Ellen's child custody clients reside throughout the United States, from New York to California.

A Statewide Reputation
Ellen Holtzman's election and service as President of the Women's Bar Association of the State of New York, today the largest women's bar association in the nation, added luster to an already distinguished reputation. Locally, the people of Rockland County benefit from attorney Ellen Holtzman's commitment to give back to the community. In conjunction with the Center for Safety & Change (formerly the Rockland Family Shelter), she mentors newer attorneys in representing victims of domestic abuse. In 2019, Ellen Holtzman was one of the first named to the Rockland County Women Leaders Hall of Fame in honor of her extraordinary efforts over many years to advance meaningful and positive change for the families of Rockland County and beyond.

Get Realistic Advice
Ellen is a family law litigator with a longstanding record of favorable results for her clients in the courtroom. Judges in courts all over the State of New York cite cases in which Ellen Holtzman has prevailed. Her candid and principled approach is deeply appreciated by her clients. Ellen says, "From Day One, I make sure that my client understands what can -- and what cannot -- be accomplished through the New York State legal system. In my consultations, which are never less than an hour, I try always to obtain enough information to provide the prospective client with an accurate and honest assessment of their case. Rather than raise false hopes, I want my clients to have a fact-based, realistic understanding of their case in the eyes of the law. If we go to court, we must meet a burden of proof -- there are very specific criteria established by statute. For example, a judge will not order a change of custody unless there is a change of circumstances that can be proven. Each case is different, but if the legal requirements for a change of circumstances cannot be met the possibility of achieving a modification of custody is unlikely, and I will let the client know that up front rather than dissipate his or her financial resources. I also make sure that clients understand that if a negotiated settlement is not possible and we do proceed to trial, the court will have all the power -- the client gives up all control of the outcome. However, whenever a case cannot be reasonably settled, I am always prepared to aggressively and skillfully advocate for my client's rights in a courtroom."

Better Transitions
Supportive and caring, Ellen and her colleagues help their clients come to terms with the fact that they are moving into another phase of their lives. Ellen says, "Now more than ever, it's important to be able to look at the facts and begin to create a constructive plan. It can be very difficult, but our years of experience have shown that clients can best help themselves to a better future by letting go, as much as possible, of their emotions. In divorce, one thing is certain. Putting painful feelings aside increases our ability to act and negotiate on your behalf and achieve the most favorable results possible for you going forward." Ellen Holtzman and her associates advise clients on dozens of practical steps they need to take to protect their own interests and future, steps that will ultimately make the divorce process less painful. Each case is different. So if you are thinking about a divorce, get the facts you need to know for your particular case. To set up a confidential consultation with Ellen, contact the Law Office of Ellen Holtzman at (845) 627-0127.