David Centeno

David Centeno

4.9
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 19 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at New York, NY
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Marriage & Prenuptials, Uncontested Divorce

767 3rd Ave, #2400, New York, NY

About David

Biography

Practice Areas

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 15 minutes

Retainer

Sometimes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in New York for 19 years

State: New York

Acquired: 2006

Currently Registered

No misconduct found

Location

David Centeno Law - NY Divorce Lawyer

767 3rd Ave, #2400, New York, NY, 10017

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David Centeno's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

327 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 reviews | Free Consultations

Posted by anonymous | April 09, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Uncontested Divorce

Excellent and Timely Customer Service!

David and his team, including Holly and Mimi were extremely professional and very thorough throughout the duration of the divorce process. David first offered a free one on one phone consultation gathering specific information regarding the type of divorce (Uncontested in my situation) I was seeking ...in order to recommend me be the best service packages his firm offered. He was very detailed and explained to me the steps of the process in a very easy to understand way. I decided to go with the expedited service which was more expensive but trust me it was well worth the price for the speed at which his team executed. After filling a brief online questionnaire and paying for the expedited service package, David and his team were very quick to initiate the start of the divorce process. The team was constantly in touch with me by email and provided me with the latest updates concerning any forms, filings, or information I needed to provide in order to proceed in the process as quickly as possible. In about less than 2 weeks, the team had already drafted the required documents to file a Summons with the court. By the third week, I was provided with the final set of documents that needed to notarized and signed. Finally in the fourth week, all documents had been submitted to the court for a final judgement of divorce. All in all, the whole process lasted roughly about a month and I was granted a successful final judgement of divorce! I can’t thank David and his team members, Holly and Mimi enough for the outstanding quality of customer service they provided throughout the whole process. They communicated with me effectively throughout and updated constantly on the progress of each step of the process. They truly exceeded my expectations with their speed and professionalism and made a difficult process very easy and anxiety free. I highly recommend them and I am truly glad I was able to work with such an amazing team!

Posted by Jackie | December 15, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Uncontested Divorce

Fast, but not as fast as advertised...

Overall, I think Mr Centeno and his assistant/paralegal, Tristin are fantastic. Very fast responses to email queries and the free initial consultation was great. The actual filing of my petition with the court was also very fast indeed. My only "complaint", which is more of a suggestion really, ...would be that they could be much more clear about just how much control they actually have over the timing of your divorce being granted. The 3-4 weeks quoted sounds great, but ultimately it's up to the judge. Filing in counties outside of the 5 boroughs where judges' case loads are likely much lighter does speed things up, but there's no guarantee that time frame will be met. That said, the 8 weeks it took for mine to be granted and entered into the court records is MUCH better than the 6-12 months or more that it could have taken. All in all, money well spent (not at all an unreasonable fee, I might add) and I would not hestitate to recommend Mr Centeno to anyone needing a fast and painless uncontested divorce. Therefore, even in light of the above, I happily give 5 stars.

Posted by Ruth | May 11, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Excellent Attorney for Uncontested Divorce

David Centeno called me for a free telephone consultation. He laid out the specifics of what needed to be done, what I needed to ask my spouse, and how much it would cost for various options. He and his assistant , Tristin, provided timely feedback throughout the process. It went quickly and smoo...thly. I am grateful for their expert advice, and would recommend David Centeno to anyone in New York in need of such services.

Posted by Jan Go | March 23, 2015 | Uncontested Divorce

Simply the best

First of all, I would like to thank Mr. David Centeno and to all his staff for helping me with my uncontested divorce. When I was searching for an attorney to help me with my case, I did the right thing by choosing Mr. Centeno. I asked for a consultation and it was free. He got back to me the same da...y. He answered all my concerns and I felt satisfied. And so went on to file for the uncontested divorce without children. He and his staff kept me informed on the progress of the divorce. It was smooth, simple, and fast. In less than a month the divorce was finalized. 100% recommend Mr. Centeno and very reliable. Thank you for your help.

Posted by anonymous | August 20, 2012

Unprofessional

I've had a "free consultation" with David Centeno, that lasted all 10 minutes! The consultation was a joke. He gave me almost no relevant information. He kept repeating that he doesn't have the time to answer my questions, because he's got another call in a couple minutes. He was the most unhelpful a...nd unprofessional attorney I have spoken to in the last two weeks. Maybe it's lack of experience or he's simply unkind and lazy. Either way, please do yourself a favor and go to someone else who's informative and professional.

David Centeno

Replied last August 24, 2012

This woman was requesting in our free consultation that I do all of her child support, child support add-on and spousal maintenance calculations for her. This level of detailed work requires that a potential client retain me. I explained this to her and she was not happy. Sometimes we get people who are looking for us to do all their calculations for them, so they can attempt to do the separation or divorce paperwork themselves. Although this is the very first time anyone has gone as far to leave a review like this when I wouldn't do free legal work for them. As an experienced divorce attorney, I understand that divorce and separation can be very stressful, so I do have compassion for this woman's situation and state of mind. Although for purposes of assessing my qualifications as an attorney, please take a look at my ACTUAL CLIENT REVIEWS and 10 / 10 AVVO RATING, as they will paint an extremely different picture of what it's like to be an actual client of my firm!

See All Client Reviews

David Centeno's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse David
Somair Syed Alam headshot
Somair Alam

Family lawyer | Feb 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Exceptional attorney, dedicated to client success. Highly recommended."

Jason M. Stone headshot
Jason Stone

Unknown lawyer | Feb 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael Block headshot
Michael Block

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jan 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse and highly recommend David."

Hovanes Margarian headshot
Hovanes Margarian

Unknown lawyer | Mar 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Nataliya I. Gavlin headshot
Nataliya Gavlin

Divorce and separation lawyer | Dec 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Excellent attorney with a great level of professionalism and experience."

Carla Christine J Prosper headshot
Carla Prosper

Divorce and separation lawyer | Aug 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Bryce A. Fetter headshot
Bryce Fetter

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Kirk Barron Bernard headshot
Kirk Bernard

Uncontested divorce lawyer | Aug 06

Relationship: Friend

"I've known David for years and he always carries himself with integrity and professionalism. He cares about each and every one of his clients and I'm proud to give him my endorsement."

Howard M Lewis headshot
Howard Lewis

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jun 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Centeno is one of the finest Divorce Attorneys in NY. He is an outstanding attorney with an exceptional reputation. Dave is a strong and zealous advocate for his clients and a credit to the legal profession."

Peter Alden Axelrod headshot
Peter Axelrod

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jun 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. David has the ability to undertake an assignment swiftly, efficiently and economically"

Tim Bukher headshot
Tim Bukher

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael J Palumbo headshot
Michael Palumbo

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jun 11

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"David really knows his stuff!"

Darrel S Jackson headshot
Darrel Jackson

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have reviewed David's postings on AVVO and believe that his responses are thorough and helpful. I would not hestitate to refer a case in the NYC area to David."

Michael Charles Doland headshot
Michael Doland

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jun 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Centeno has given consistently accurate and personalized replies to Avvo questions and demonstrated a depth of knowledge and personal concern. These are great qualities that any prospective client would want to have in an attorney."

Randy W. Ferguson headshot
Randy Ferguson

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jun 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jeremy Adam Wechsler headshot
Jeremy Wechsler

Divorce and separation lawyer | Mar 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer without reservation - he is dedicated to his practice and his clients."

Ronee F Korbin Steiner headshot
Ronee Steiner

Family lawyer | Jan 13

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. I have had the opportunity to review his postings on AVVO and I find his statements to be thorough and knowledgeable. If had a need to refer a case in the NYC area, I would definitely refer it to David."

Christian K. Lassen II headshot
Christian Lassen

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. His knowledge of complex legal issues is extensive, based on his AVVO answers."

J. Richard Kulerski headshot
J. Kulerski

Divorce and separation lawyer | Aug 31

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"David Centeno is a true professional and I wholeheartedly endorse his work. David has an excellent reputation and is well regarded on a national level for the wonderful support and legal guidance he provides to those in need. He cares about people and it shows. David Centeno gets all five stars."

H. Benjamin Perez headshot
H. Perez

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jul 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've known attorney David Centeno for years. He is a bright, conscientious lawyer who provides great service. He knows how to get the job done. I recommend him highly."

View All Endorsements
Kirk Barron Bernard headshot
Kirk Bernard

Personal injury lawyer

Howard M Lewis headshot
Howard Lewis

Divorce and separation lawyer

Peter Alden Axelrod headshot
Peter Axelrod

Unknown lawyer

Tim Bukher headshot
Tim Bukher

Internet lawyer

Michael Charles Doland headshot
Michael Doland

Unknown lawyer

Darrel S Jackson headshot
Darrel Jackson

Unknown lawyer

Michael J Palumbo headshot
Michael Palumbo

Divorce and separation lawyer

Randy W. Ferguson headshot
Randy Ferguson

Unknown lawyer

Peter L. Cedeno headshot
Peter Cedeno

Divorce and separation lawyer

J. Richard Kulerski headshot
J. Kulerski

Divorce and separation lawyer

H. Benjamin Perez headshot
H. Perez

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Top 3 NY Divorce lawyers, ThreeBestRated®

2025

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2021

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2020

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2019

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2019

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2018

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2017

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2016

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2015

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2014

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2013

Lead Counsel Rated, Lead Counsel

2011

Notable Legal Blog, Blog Catalog

2011

Top New York Matrimonial Lawyer, Arrive Magazine

2011

Editorial Award, New York Divorce News

2011

Top New York Divorce Lawyer 2011, Arrive Magazine

2011

Top New York Lawyer 2011, Arrive Magazine

2011

Author Award, New York Divorce News

2010

Excellent Divorce Law Blog, Blog Catalog

2010

Quality Legal Blog, Blog Advisor

2010

Top Legal Blog, Blog Guide

2010

Notable Legal Blog, Blog Report

2010

Notable Legal Blog, Blog Catalog

2010

Top Divorce Law Blogger, Legal Blog Ratings

2009

Excellent Divorce Law Blog, Blog Catalog

2005

Leadership Excellence Award, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law

2004

Editor, Cardozo Public Policy and Ethics Journal

Work Experience

2009 - Present

Founder, David Centeno Law, PC

2005 - 2008

Attorney, Bear Stearns, Inc.

2004 - 2005

Fellow, Criminal Law Clinic

2003 - 2004

Judicial Clerk, Supreme Court of the State of New York

2003 - 2005

Intern, The Law Office of Michael W. Goldstein

Associations

2011 - Present

New York Bar Foundation

Member

2010 - Present

United States District Court - Southern District

Admitted into Federal Practice

2009 - Present

New York State Bar Association, Civil Practice Law and Rules Committee

Member

2008 - Present

New York State Bar Association, Family Law Section

Member

2006 - Present

New York City Bar Association

2006 - Present

Association of the Bar of the City of New York

2006 - Present

New York State Supreme Court Bar

Member

Matrimonial Lawyers Alliance

Sample of Legal Cases

Incredibly Fast Divorce

Divorce in 10 days!

Divorce Without Defendant's Cooperation

Divorce

Divorce Defendant in Foreign Country

Divorce

Must Get Divorced Before Marriage Date

Divorce

Spouse's Whereabouts Unknown

Divorce

Separation Agreement Before Deployment

Legal Separation

Default Judgment of Default

Divorce

See More Legal Cases

Education

2005

Yeshiva University, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2002

Columbia University

2001

New York University

BA - Bachelor of Arts

1997

The Browning School

High School

Speaking Engagements

2012

New York Divorce Seminar

The Ins and Outs of New York Divorce

2011

New York Divorce Conference

New York No-Fault Divorce

2011

Divorce Conference

New York No-Fault Divorce

2010

Divorce Conference

Uncontested Divorce

2010

Divorce and Family Law Issues

Prenups

2009

New York City Divorce Information Conference

New York Uncontested Divorce

Publications

2013

The Huffington Post Huffington Post Contributor

2013

The Huffington Post Huffington Post Contributor

2012

New York Divorce News Author

2012

HG.org Article New York No Fault Divorce

2011

New York No-Fault Divorce Blog New York No-Fault Divorce

2011

New York Divorce News Author

2011

New York Divorce News New York Divorce News

2011

New York Uncontested Divorce Blog New York Uncontested Divorce Blog

2010

New York Divorce Lawyer Blog Divorce How To

2009

Languages

English

Spanish

Activity

Avvo Rating

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What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution