Deana Balahtsis

Deana Balahtsis

5.0
Rating: 7.2

Licensed for 29 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at New York, NY
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Family, Immigration, Adoption

805 3rd Avenue, 12th Floor, New York, NY

About Deana

Biography

Fees and Rates

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Licenses

Licensed in New York for 29 years

State: New York

Acquired: 1997

Due to Reregister within 30 days of Birthday

No misconduct found

Location

Law Office of Deana Balahtsis

805 3rd Avenue, 12th Floor, New York, NY, 10022

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Deana Balahtsis's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

55 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (55) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 17 reviews | Family

Posted by Diana | June 11, 2026 | Hired Attorney

Five Stars Is Not Even Close to Enough — Deana Is In a League of Her Own

Five stars is NOT enough!!!! Working with Deana during one of the most difficult chapters of my life made all the difference — and I mean that with every ounce of conviction I have. From the very first conversation, she brought a rare and powerful combination of strength, clarity, and compassion tha...t immediately put me at ease. I chose Deana because I needed someone truly tough in my corner — especially after everything I had already been through — and she did not just deliver, she exceeded every expectation I had. She fought for me like I was family. My case was incredibly sensitive and complex, involving multiple layers and outside agencies, and Deana and her team advocated for me and my children with a level of dedication, care, and professionalism that I will never forget. Because of her work, I was able to reclaim my peace, my safety, and a clear path forward. That is not something I take lightly. Her entire staff is exceptional. Merilda, another attorney on her team, was absolutely fantastic, and her paralegal was equally responsive, organized, and deeply supportive throughout the entire process. This is a team that works seamlessly together and genuinely cares about the people they represent — you feel it from day one. Deana and her practice are thorough in a way that is truly rare. She is deeply knowledgeable, stays ahead of every development, and leaves absolutely nothing to chance — changes in the law, case strategy, shifting dynamics — nothing slips through the cracks. Ever. She is sharp, strategic, and relentless when it comes to protecting her clients, yet always thoughtful and measured in every decision she makes. Deana is a shark in the best possible sense of the word: efficient, direct, and extraordinarily effective — while still being completely respectful of your time, your emotions, and your resources. Navigating a high-conflict custody situation is one of the most overwhelming and emotionally draining experiences a person can go through. Deana guided me through every step with steady confidence, unwavering control, and genuine support. She made sure I understood exactly what was happening at every turn, anticipated challenges before they ever arose, and consistently positioned me for the best possible outcome. What truly sets Deana apart is her ability to be both formidable and deeply respected at the same time. She advocates fiercely while maintaining a strong, credible, and commanding presence with everyone involved in the process. She is clearly highly regarded in the courtroom — and more importantly, she genuinely cares. I felt it in the way she listened, the way she prepared, and the way she showed up for me every single time. As I move into this next chapter of my life, I feel stronger, safer, and incredibly grateful to have had Deana by my side. I would not hesitate for even a single second to recommend her. If you are going through something similar — or simply need a fierce, brilliant, and battle-tested SHARK in your corner — she is exactly who you need. Do not walk. Run.

Posted by Elllen P | February 27, 2025 | Hired Attorney

Excellent Lawyer!!

Deana was my champion. She fought for me every step of the way. The deal she got me far passed my expectations. Her sole motivation was to protect mine and my children’s rights. She is a Rock Star in the court room and worth every dollar I spent on my case . Ellen P

Posted by PAUL | June 16, 2023 | Hired Attorney

Dedicated and Team Player

I’m very grateful for Deana Balahtsis legal representation and her Law Firm. Prompt, articulate, and always available to address my concerns questions. We reached a nice settlement with Family Court in my particular case. It was a challenge for the team and want to thank them for all their har...d work and wonderful services!!! Yes, I would strongly recommend. Her courtesy, professionalism, and "real" attitude is what is needed when all else looks like a terrible scripted drama.

Posted by Markella | April 25, 2023 | Hired Attorney

Attentive and Kindhearted Lawyer

Deana is a very professional and witty lawyer. She went above and beyond to provide me with different scenarios/strategies to help me and my family. Her concern for my children spoke volumes. She is patient, kind, and understanding. She takes time and care for each and every one of her clients. Than...k you Deana!

Posted by anonymous | August 16, 2022 | Hired Attorney

Caring lawyer

A week after hiring Deana, I was forced to flee my apartment in a panicked state after an ugly altercation with my ex, with a 5 month old baby at the height of Covid back in 2020. Deana was my first call and she walked me step by step to what I needed to do. With my family abroad, I was completely al...one in the city , a new mother and scared of what would happen. Deana’s emotional and legal support saved me from a very toxic and hostile situation. My ex was unreasonable every step of the way and his control and fear he had instilled in me for years was hard to shake off, and without Deana I likely would’ve gone back to him as I was so afraid. Thank GOD I didn’t because I could not be happier now and most importantly, I have a happy toddler who will not grow up in a toxic environment. She kept giving me hope of a better future and made me feel like it would all Be ok. And she was right. She gave me HOPE. She was the fighter I needed when I had nothing left in me to give. She handled my case with confidence and professionalism and she treated me like family. My case took much longer than anticipated or hoped mainly due to my ex’s unreasonable offers, but eventually we settled the case and I was very happy with the outcome. Deana’s (and Merilda’s) care and attention to my case did not go unnoticed and I’m forever grateful for hiring her. She is there whenever you have a question and she will Walk you through the options and give you her best legal advice but also listen to your thoughts. What’s best about Deana is that she is a straight shooter and she will tell You if what you are asking is unreasonable. She’ll put you in place when needed and will ease your mind when you’re feeling worried. If you need a soldier to fight on your behalf, Deana’s your best choice.

See All Client Reviews

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Experience

Rating:  7.2 (Very Good)

Honors

2019

Top Attorneys of North America, Who's Who Directories

2019

Pinnacle Professional Member, Continental Who's Who

N/A

Member, New York State Women's Bar Association

Work Experience

2003 - Present

Principal, Law Office of Deana Balahtsis

Associations

New York State Bar Association

Member

Education

2000

City University of New York-Hunter College

LMSW

1995

Washington and Lee University School of Law

JD

1991

Le Moyne College

Languages

English

Spanish

Greek

Albanian

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

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  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
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