To file for divorce in New York, start by ensuring residency requirements are met—either you or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least one year. File a “Summons with Notice” or “Summons and Complaint” at your county clerk’s office, detailing the grounds for divorce, File for Divorce New York which can be irretrievable breakdown, fault grounds, or a separation agreement. Pay the filing fee and serve your spouse with the divorce papers. After service, your spouse has 20 to 30 days to respond. If both parties agree on the terms or a judgment is made, the court will finalize the divorce.