By: Norkka M. Schell, Esq. | Published on May 18, 2026 

When Marriage Ends Across Borders: Navigating Matrimonial Litigation in New York and Brazil

When facing a family crisis, the legal system can seem like an insurmountable maze. For families with ties to both the United States and Brazil, that maze is uniquely complicated. Matrimonial litigation—which encompasses contested divorces, custody battles, support disputes, and orders of protection—requires highly specialized legal strategies when multiple jurisdictions are involved.

At the Law Offices of Norka M. Schell, LLC, we bridge the gap between New York and Brazilian legal frameworks. Here is a look at the core areas of our matrimonial litigation practice:

Contested Divorces in a Global Landscape:  A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot agree on key issues like asset division or child custody. When assets are located in both NY and Brazil, valuing and dividing real estate, businesses, and pensions requires an attorney who understands both legal systems. With dual licensure (NY and OAB/MG), Attorney Norka M. Schell effectively tracks and protects assets across borders without relying on outside intermediaries.

The High Stakes of Custody Battles:  Nothing is more emotionally charged than a custody dispute. Our firm approaches custody cases with a fierce dedication to the child's best interests. In cross-border scenarios, we have extensive experience dealing with relocation requests and the Hague Convention, ensuring that parental rights are fiercely protected whether in a Manhattan courtroom or a Brazilian jurisdiction.

Resolving Complex Support Disputes: Determining fair child support and spousal maintenance (alimony) relies on accurate financial transparency. We aggressively litigate support disputes to ensure that individuals are not hiding assets or underreporting income, fighting for the financial stability our clients deserve.

Immediate Safety: Orders of Protection: If you are facing harassment or domestic abuse, your safety cannot wait. We act urgently to secure Orders of Protection in New York Family and Supreme Courts, providing a legal shield for you and your children during highly volatile matrimonial disputes.

Why Cultural and Legal Fluency Matters:  Navigating the legal system is hard enough without a language barrier. Our firm provides legal counsel in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring you fully understand every step of your case.

If you are facing matrimonial litigation in New York or a complex US-Brazil family law matter, you need a strong advocate. Contact the Law Offices of Norka M. Schell, LLC today to schedule a comprehensive consultation. CALL 212-258-0713.

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