Clifford J. Petroske

PRO

Clifford J. Petroske

4.7
53 reviews
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 36 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at Hauppauge, NY
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Uncontested Divorce, Child Custody ... +5 more

1393 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 414N, Hauppauge, NY

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About Clifford

Biography

Matrimonial & Family Law | 30+ Years Experience to Guide You Through the Tough Choices

Practice Areas

8

Practice Areas

Divorce and Separation 85%

contested, uncontested, equitable distribution, pendente lite, maintenance, child support, custody and visitation

35 years

85%
Uncontested Divorce 5%

5%
Child Custody 3%

child custody and visitation, enforcement, modification, shared custody, grandparent rights, relocation

35 years

3%
Family 3%

child custody, child support, paternity, order of protection, grandparent rights

35 years

3%
Alimony 1%

1%
Appeals 1%

matrimonial and family law appeals

32 years

1%
Child Support 1%

child support establishment, enforcement, modification, arrears

34 years

1%
Marriage and Prenuptials 1%

1%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Licenses

Licensed in New York for 36 years

State: New York

Acquired: 1990

Currently Registered

No misconduct found

Location

Petroske Riezenman & Meyers, P.C.

1393 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 414N, Hauppauge, NY, 11788

petroskelaw.com

Law Offices of Clifford J. Petroske

1055 Franklin Avenue, Suite 206, Garden City, NY, 11530

petroskelaw.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find Clifford online.

Clifford J. Petroske's Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (46) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 11 - 15 of 17 reviews | General Knowledge

Posted by Bart | January 27, 2014 | Family

QDRO

Cliff's knowledge and experience with family law was instrumental in assisting me through a challenging QDRO process, during which I found my employer was unable to process my retirement annuity due to a poorly drafted QDRO submitted by my former wife 15+ years ago. Cliff and his team worked closely... with my employer and ex-spouse to ensure a new, satisfactory QDRO consistent with the terms of my pension plan and divorce agreement was submitted to the Court. I especially appreciated the efforts Cliff's team made to follow-up with the Court to determine the status of the document, allowing me to proceed with my scheduled retirement with confidence. I've had the opportunity to retain attorneys for a variety of purposes, and I can say Cliff's knowledge, accessibility and professionalism sets the standard. I encourage anyone requiring a QDRO to Google Cliff's article on this topic, demonstrating his expertise in this area.

Posted by anonymous | September 20, 2013 | Child Support

Great Law Office for a not so great situation.............

It is not an easy task to choose an attorney when there is so many out there.At a time when I was so stressed and confused, I went around kind of interviewing lawyers to see who would be the most knowledgeable and who I felt most comfortable with. Cliff stood out for me and I hired him for my simple... requests for more aid for my son concerning child support and his education. I was under the impression of my own that it would be a simple process. Unfortunately, my ex husband hired the lawyer from hell, and dragged out my lawsuit with anything and everything they could think of. During this most trying time for me, Cliff and Ann were always there for me, answering my endless questions, reassuring me, and explaining what was happening at every step.Through everything that went on, I saw more and more how knowledgeable and experienced they really were.They knew how to navigate through all the nonsense and legal issues, and made sure they had my best interest at heart, and worked very hard on my behalf. Not realizing how expensive a lawsuit could be, they always tried to keep my bill as reasonable as possible. The results were the best for me given the situation, and I knew I was in good hands. All I can say is that in a sea of lawyers, Cliff and Ann and the entire staff made me feel I made the best possible choice. I would highly recommend them to anyone that is confused as I was and needs help and guidance through their legal issues. THANK YOU CLIFF, ANN, MEGAN, AND THE ENTIRE OFFICE OF CLIFFORD PETROSKE, ESQ.

Posted by Tina | December 26, 2012 | Divorce & Separation

Excellent,Proffessional Office. They make you feel so special and accomadate you in any way they can.

My lawyer Anne A. helped me through this sometimes painful experience. I was so happy to have a warm happy welcome the minute I first visited this office. Cliff took all my info and he let me speak my mind, ask as many questions I wantedd, and was very knowledgeable about the entire divorce procedure.... Anne was delightful, responsive, helpful and just down right nice and understanding. She was promt in everything she did from paperwork to filing to calling me back. The receptionist there knows my first name!! She is happy, sweet and also very helpful and sincere. My divorce went off without a problem. Just a great firm. Since I wont be getting divorced again I will miss them all!!!

Posted by Jeffrey | September 21, 2011 | Child Custody

Extremely Professional and Knowledgeable Law Office!

I hired the services of Clifford Petroski and his law office for the delicate matter of custody of my two children. During the entire custody proceeding, Mr. Petroski was truly working in the best interest of my children and I. He and his staff were very professional and dedicated to my case. They we...re extremely knowledgeable and thorough in their research which gives me a great deal of confidence in attaining the results I was hoping for. He is a true expert in the field of family law. A very tough attorney in court, Mr. Petroski will go above and beyond to give excellent legal counsel. Clifford Petroski and his team of professionals have done a tremendous job on my case. The Law Offices of Clifford Petroski are top notch and I would recommend them to anyone! JRS

Posted by Matt | January 27, 2011 | Divorce & Separation

I will forever be grateful and feel blessed that I met Mr. Petroske.

I write this letter to thank you again for all you have done for me as my attorney. I met you during a time that I’ll always remember to be the worst and most desperate time of my life. Like many clients, I had been going through a divorce and custody battle that had been going on for a year and a ...half. I had been represented during that time by another attorney whom I was informed a month before my custody trial was about to begin, that he was dismissed from practicing law in New York State. My life was crumbling before me emotionally and financially when it was strongly suggested by another attorney familiar with my case that I contact your office. Little did I know it would be the best worse news that I ever could have received. You are a compassionate, ethical, hard working, fair and honest man who is serious about his work and representing his clients. You confidently took my case assuring me you would be prepared and would proudly represent me as I am a responsible and devoted father to my daughter. I was never more nervous in my life the first day I walked into court and stood before Judge Bivona as I was sworn in to testify my case. I left with a much more comfortable feeling as I realized, during cross examination from my spouse’s attorney, that I was in good hands, better hands. Professional and knowledgeable at all times, you strategically, fearlessly and boldly represented me. Fully prepared for rebuttal and curve balls you consistently were able to support my testimony and quite often out smart your opposing colleague. I knew from that day forward that everything was going to be ok. What the opposition saw as an opportunity to capitalize on my misfortune, they soon realized was going to be a much more daunting task. With such little time to prepare, you clearly surprised everyone in the court room including the Judge and my daughter’s law guardian with your thoroughness, hard nose approach and relentless persistence for an outcome that was best for my daughter to come to fruition. After five days of trial my spouse was advised by her attorney and my daughter’s law guardian that she settles with me for the case did not shine bright in her favor. Even then you weren’t done as you sat with me at the table and negotiated for me a very fair and satisfying agreement that I’m proud resulted in most everything I had been hoping for. At all times I found your entire staff, specifically Jenn Dorn and Stacey Buechmann, to be courteous, knowledgeable, efficient and dedicated professionals. They were familiar with my case, prompt in returning phone calls, and I always got off the phone with reassurance that the job was getting done, which was a pleasant experience as I had not had that with my previous firm. I always felt I was advised properly by you and your team and more importantly knew everyone was listening and understanding me. You and you staff were extremely transparent with expectations and caring about how the situation was affecting me. It was truly an experience you don’t find anywhere else. I will forever be grateful and feel blessed that I met you.

See All Client Reviews

Clifford J. Petroske's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Clifford
Ingrid Gherman headshot
Ingrid Gherman

Family lawyer | Dec 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I am happy to endorse this lawyer. His answers to AVVO questions demonstrate his knowledge and dedication as a family law attorney"

Thomas Daniel Benigno headshot
Thomas Benigno

Divorce and separation lawyer | Nov 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer wholeheartedly. His experience and courtroom savvy are invaluable to any prospective client needing representation in the area of matrimonial law or child custody."

Alexander Edward Sklavos headshot
Alexander Sklavos

Divorce and separation lawyer | May 27

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Cliff and I have had many cases over the years. I have always found him to be prepared, well reasoned and a fierce advocate for his clients."

Somair Syed Alam headshot
Somair Alam

Child support lawyer | Feb 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Michael Walter Meyers headshot
Michael Meyers

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jan 20

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"Cliff is a profoundly remarkable attorney who balances zealous advocacy for each of his clients with a pragmatic approach toward settlement -- arts which are rare to find by themselves, never mind combined. Additionally, Cliff has a true passion for the law, as well as compassion for his clients. I highly endorse this lawyer."

Mario David Cometti headshot
Mario Cometti

Divorce and separation lawyer | Sep 18

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. attorney Petroske is highly respected in his legal community. His AVVO response are well thought out and informative."

Brad S. Margolis headshot
Brad Margolis

Unknown lawyer | Dec 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Christian K. Lassen II headshot
Christian Lassen

Unknown lawyer | Oct 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."

Penelope J Blizzard-McGrath headshot
Penelope Blizzard-McGrath

Family lawyer | May 07

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Cliff is very experienced in family law. He will fight for his clients to the end using not only his expertise in the law, but his passion for helping his clients."

View All Endorsements
Ryan Adam Riezenman headshot
Ryan Riezenman

Unknown lawyer

Michael Walter Meyers headshot
Michael Meyers

Unknown lawyer

Jeffrey Arlen Spinner headshot
Jeffrey Spinner

Unknown lawyer

Thomas Daniel Benigno headshot
Thomas Benigno

Real estate lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2026

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

New York Metro Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

New York Metro Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2022

New York Metro Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers

2021

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2021

New York Metro Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers

2020

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2020

New York Metro Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2019

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2019

New York Metro Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2018

New York Metro Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2018

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2018

Distinguished, Martindale-Hubbell

2017

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2016

New York Metro Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2016

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2015

Top Contributor, Avvo.com

2015

Top 100 Lawyers, American Society of Legal Advocates

2015

Top One Percent, National Association of Distinguished Counsel

2015

Distinguished, Martindale-Hubbell

2014

Top 100 Matrimonial and Family Lawyers, The National Advocates

2014

Top Contributor, Avvo.com

2014

Clients' Choice, Avvo.com

2014

Top 100 Lawyers, American Society of Legal Advocates

2014

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2013

Client Distinction Award, Martindale-Hubbell

2013

Clients' Choice, Avvo.com

2013

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2012

Clients' Choice, Avvo.com

2012

BV Rated, Martindale Hubbell

2011

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2010

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

Work Experience

2015 - Present

Owner, Petroske Riezenman & Meyers, P.C.

1992 - 2015

Owner, Law Offices of Clifford J. Petroske, P.C.

1989 - 1992

Associate, Reisch, Simoni, Bythewood & Gleason

Associations

2020 - Present

American Academy for Certified Financial Litigators

Member

2015 - Present

National Association of Distinguished Counsel

Member

2014 - Present

American Society of Legal Advocates

Member

2014 - Present

Association of Entrepreneurial Attorneys

Member

2008 - Present

Suffolk County Matrimonial Bar Association

Member

1992 - Present

NYSBA Family Law Section

Member

1990 - Present

Suffolk County Bar Association

Member

1990 - Present

New York State Bar Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

Block v. Block

Pre-Nuptial Agreement Vacated, Found to Be Unfair and Unconscionable

Hinck v. Hinck

Succeeded on appeal

Saravia v. Godzieba

obtained more parenting time for non-custodial father

Gort v. Kull

obtained visitation order for paternal grandmother

Hinck v. Hinck

dismissal of adversary's case, and counsel fees awarded

Ruggiero v. Noe

favorable parenting schedule upheld on appeal

Zwillman v. Kull

obtained meaningful visitation for out-of-state father

Katsaros v. Katsaros

defeated attack on pre-nuptial agreement

Ruggiero v. Noe

unfavorable custody ruling modified on appeal

Bernholc v. Bornstein

unfair divorce trial decision modified

Lee v. Lee

$5800/month maintenance reinstated on appeal

Skladanek v. Skladanek

$690/week Maintenance, $41,217 Attorneys Fees

Hinck v. Hinck

Successful defense of prenuptial agreement

Reynolds v. Reynolds

Attorney succeeded in child support modification

Janofsky v. Janofsky

Attorney prevailed on appeal from QDRO

See More Legal Cases

Education

1989

Hofstra University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1986

State University of New York, Stony Brook

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2004

CLE

Suffolk Academy of Law

Publications

Languages

English

Activity

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.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • 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
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