Overall Rating
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
5.0 /5.0
33 Client Reviews
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Paul James Tortora Jr
also known as Paul J. Tortora Jr.
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About Paul
Biography
As Partner at Rupp Pfalzgraf LLC, Paul J. Tortora Jr. brings over 15 years of distinguished experience in family and matrimonial law to his leadership of the firm’s Syracuse office. Paul manages a dedicated legal team, guiding attorneys and staff in representing clients across divorce, custody, support, and domestic violence cases with professionalism and care. His background includes serving prominent law firms and working alongside members of the U.S. House of Representatives, where he contributed to complex litigation and federal legislative drafting. A committed mentor, Paul fosters growth within his team while achieving successful outcomes for clients, earning accolades such as inclusion in Super Lawyers’ Rising Stars and a “Superb” rating from Avvo. He is also a Client Champion recognized by Martindale-Hubbell. Paul received his J.D. from Syracuse University College of Law as a Dean’s Scholar and is admitted in multiple jurisdictions including New York and Washington, D.C. Committed to advancing the field, Paul has authored numerous articles and frequently speaks on family law topics. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching and spending time with his three children.
Paul J. Tortora Jr. is an accomplished Syracuse family law attorney with extensive experience providing counsel across Central New York in a range of matters including divorce, custody and child support. Contact today for a free confidential consultation.
The well-being of the children is always our top priority in family court. Issues of child custody, child support, visitation, and child protective proceedings require great levels of care to protect the children. Our family attorneys are experienced in this kind of sensitivity and child advocacy.
The well-being of the children is always our top priority in family court. Issues of child custody, child support, visitation, and child protective proceedings require great levels of care to protect the children. Our family attorneys are experienced in this kind of sensitivity and child advocacy.
Whatever your family is going through, our divorce team will be there with you—every step of the way. We’ll arm you with critical insight. We’ll empower you to make decisions in your family’s best interests. And together, we’ll move your family forward.
Whatever your family is going through, our family law team will be there with you—every step of the way. We’ll arm you with critical insight. We’ll empower you to make decisions in your family’s best interests. And together, we’ll move your family forward.
Practice Areas
4
Practice Areas
Child Custody
25%
15 years | 100 cases
Child Support
25%
15 years | 100 cases
Divorce and Separation
25%
15 years | 100 cases
Family
25%
15 years | 100 cases
Fees and Rates
Cost
Retainer
Always
Payment Methods
- Check
- Credit Card
Awards
2025
Licenses
Licensed in New York for 5 years
State: New York
Acquired: 2020
No misconduct found
Licensed in Maryland for 15 years
State: Maryland
Acquired: 2010
No misconduct found
Licensed in Virginia for 11 years
State: Virginia
Acquired: 2014
No misconduct found
Licensed in District of Columbia for 13 years
State: District of Columbia
Acquired: 2012
No misconduct found
Location
Rupp Pfalzgraf
(716) 354-1086
Mobile
(315) 214-3164
Fax
State Tower Building, 109 South Warren Street, Suite 709, Syracuse, NY, 13202
rupppfalzgraf.com/Gallery
Online Presence
Other places you can find Paul online.
Paul James Tortora Jr's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 22 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by Alyssa | December 2, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Paul is an amazing lawyer and is always willing to help.
If I could give Paul a higher review than 5 stars I absolutely would. I recommend him more than anyone. I made a dumb teenage decision and he was able to help me through the whole process of court and keeping it off of my record. He’s very patient and is always willing to help. Paul is amazing about ...
Posted by Ricky | October 1, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Best Choice For Syracuse Divorce
I honestly don’t know what I would’ve done without Paul. Going through family court was one of the hardest things I’ve ever faced, and he was there every step of the way. Always quick to respond, always honest, and actually cared about me and my case. If you ever need a family law attorney in Syracus...
Posted by Lisa | September 20, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Exceptional Representation in a Highly Contested Case
I never thought I’d find myself in the middle of a divorce that turned into a drawn-out war. What should have been straightforward quickly spiraled into constant disputes over custody, finances, and just about everything else. It was exhausting, and there were days I genuinely wondered if I’d ever se...
Posted by Antonio | September 11, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Excellent Choice for Complex Divorce
I can't recommend Paul enough for anyone facing a divorce with substantial financial interests at stake. I was initially daunted by the complexities of the process, but right from our initial meeting, Paul demonstrated remarkable professionalism, expertise, and a strategic approach that instilled con...
Posted by Louisa | June 29, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Stood By Me When When CPS Wouldn’t Listening
When CPS showed up at my doorstep with false accusations, my stomach dropped and my world felt like it was ending. They were investigating me for neglect, and the fear of losing my children was paralyzing. That's when I reached out to Paul. From our very first call, he made me feel heard, not judged...
Paul James Tortora Jr's Lawyer Endorsements
"Paul has a solid grasp of the law and local courts, allowing him to effectively guide his clients not only relative to the law itself, but also through the ins and outs of the court system. He is straightforward and pragmatic with an eye toward success and client satisfaction."
"Paul is a knowledgeable and compassionate attorney. He works hard to get the very best results for his clients and is a consistent resource for information."
"Paul has an excellent understanding of the Family and Matrimonial Practice, as well as background and expertise in litigation generally, as well as in client communications. Paul has been an invaluable member of the Syracuse team and office."
"Paul is a fantastic matrimonial and family court litigator who has a huge amount of experience in local courts. I would retain him myself if I had a family law problem in ventral New York. I strongly endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Paul Tortora has been one of the most hardworking and diligent person I have ever known. His vast legal knowledge, in particular his immigration knowledge, is second to none. There has never been a situation that Paul has been unable to overcome. I wholeheartedly recommend Paul for your immigration issues."
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Experience
Honors
2025
Avvo Superb Rating, Avvo
2025
Client Champion - Platinum, Martindale-Hubbell®
2025
Client Champion - Gold, Martindale-Hubbell®
2025
Client Champion - Silver, Martindale-Hubbell®
2025
Super Lawyers, Thomson Reuters
2025
Rising Star, Thomson Reuters
2025
Client's Choice, Avvo
2024
Super Lawyers, Thomson Reuters
2024
Rising Stars, Thomson Reuters
2010
Global Law and Practice Certificate, Syracuse University College of Law
2010
Dean's List, Syracuse University College of Law
2010
Dean's Scholar, Syracuse University College of Law
2010
National Security and Counterterrorism Certificate, Syracuse University College of Law
2007
Pi Sigma Alpha (Political Science Honor Society), Syracuse University
2007
Dean's List, Syracuse University
2007
Phi Alpha Theta (History Honor Society), Syracuse Univeristy
2007
Graduated Cum Laude, Syracuse University
Work Experience
2025 - Present
Partner, Rupp Pfalzgraf
2023 - 2025
Supervising Attorney, Colwell Law Group
2022 - 2023
Senior Associate Attorney, Tully Rinckey, PLLC
2019 - 2022
Staff Attorney, Hiscock Legal Aid Society
2014 - 2018
Managing Attorney, The Law Office of Paul Tortora PLLC
2012 - 2014
Associate Attorney, Murray Osorio PLLC
2011 - 2011
Legislative Research Assistant, Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy
2011 - 2011
Legislative Analyst, Williams & Jensen, PLLC
2011 - 2012
Government Affairs Advisor, North American Securities Administrators Association
2010 - 2011
Legislative Correspondent, Congressman Dan Maffei
Associations
2020 - Present
New York State Bar Association
2020 - Present
Onondaga County Bar Association
2014 - Present
Virginia State Bar
2012 - Present
District of Columbia Bar
2010 - Present
Maryland State Bar Association
2010 - Present
Syracuse University College of Law Alumni Association
2007 - Present
Syracuse University Alumni Association
Sample of Legal Cases
Onondaga County Custody Proceeding
Client Retained Custody
Onondaga County Divorce Proceeding
Client Received Favorable Distribution of Assets
Tioga County Custody Case
Client Granted Primary Custody
Madison County Domestic Violence Case
Client Was Granted an Order of Protection
Cayuga County Custody Case
Client Regained Relationship With Children
Education
2010
Syracuse University College of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
2007
Syracuse University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Speaking Engagements
2025
Weekly Legal Training
Special Considerations in New York State Divorces Involving Children with Autism
2024
Weekly Legal Training
Pendente Lite Motions in Matrimonial Actions
2024
Weekly Legal Training
Terminating Parental Rights
2024
Weekly Legal Training
Establishing Paternity
2023
Tully Rinckey Webinar
Modifying Existing Child Custody Orders
2022
Tully Rinckey Webinar
Filing for Modification of Existing Custody Orders
2020
Immigration and Unemployment Benefits
The Impact of Immigration Status on Unemployment Benefits
Publications
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Termination of Parental Rights in New York State
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Understanding Automatic Orders in New York Divorce Cases
2025
paultortoralaw.com
What Are the Consequences of Violating a New York State Family Court Order?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
What is an Order of Protection in New York State?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
How Are Holiday Custody Schedules Determined in New York State?
2025
paultortoralaw.con
Co-Parenting Tips for a Smooth Thanksgiving
2025
2025
paultortoralaw.com
How Long Does It Take To Get Divorced in New York State?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Does It Matter Who Files For Divorce First?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Special Considerations in Divorces Involving Retired or Active-Duty Military
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Guardianship of Minor Children in New York State
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Are Prenuptial Agreements Enforceable in New York State?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Understanding Emancipation of Minors in New York State
2025
2025
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Special Education and the Law: A Guide for Parents of Autistic Children
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Challenging Paternity in New York: What You Need to Know
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Grandparent Visitation in New York State: Understanding Your Rights
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Appealing CPS Indicated Reports in New York State
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Understanding Family Offenses in New York State
2025
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Who Can Claim the Children on Their Tax Return?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Understanding Residency Requirements for Divorce in New York State
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Cryptocurrency and Digital Assets in New York Divorces
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Unique Challenges in High-Asset Divorces in New York
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Who Can File a Family Offense Petition in New York State?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Self-Employed Parents and Child Support Calculations in New York
2025
paultortoralaw.com
When Can You Modify Spousal Support in New York?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Child Support for Special Needs Children in New York
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Who Gets the House in a New York State Divorce?
2025
rupppfalzgraf.com
Co-Parenting Tips for the Holiday Season
2025
paultortoralaw.com
How Debt Is Divided in a New York Divorce
2025
2025
paultortoralaw.com
The Impact of Divorce on Wills and Estate Planning in New York
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Social Media and Divorce: What NY Residents Need to Know
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Co-Parenting Tips for the Christmas Holiday
2025
paultortoralaw.com
What New York Courts Consider When Determining "Best Interests of the Child"
2025
paultortoralaw.com
How to Talk to Your Children About Divorce
2025
paultortoralaw.com
How to Discuss a Prenup with Your Partner Without Causing Conflict
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Co-Parenting Tips for Recently Separated Parents
2025
2025
paultortoralaw.com
The Difference Between IEPs and 504 Plans in New York
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Open vs. Closed Adoptions in New York State: Understanding Your Options
2025
2025
2025
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Will Getting Divorced Impact My Immigration Status?
2025
Rupp Pfalzgraf LLC
Co-Parenting Tips for the Start of the School Year
2025
Rupp Pfalzgraf LLC
Divorce Mediation Explained: Is It Right for You?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Who Pays for College After Divorce in New York? What Parents Need to Know
2025
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Understanding Child Custody Relocation Petitions in New York
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Establishing Paternity in New York State: What You Need to Know
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Understanding Prenuptial Agreements in New York
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Who Gets the Dog in a New York Divorce? Understanding Pet Custody Laws
2025
paultortoralaw.com
How to Get Your Ex Out of the House in New York State
2025
paultortoralaw.com
What to Do If You Are Falsely Accused of a Family Offense in New York
2025
paultortoralaw.com
What To Do If You Are Being Investigated By CPS
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Understanding Grandparent Rights in New York State
2025
2025
paultortoralaw.com
What Happens to Inheritances and Gifts During a New York Divorce?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Uncovering Hidden Assets During Divorce: Red Flags and Solutions
2025
paultortoralaw.com
How Extramarital Affairs Impact Divorce and Custody Proceedings in New York
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Forensic Accounting in NY Divorces: When Do You Need It?
2025
paultortoralw.com
Stock Options, Bonuses, and Deferred Compensation in NY Divorces
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce in New York: Key Differences
2025
paultortoralaw.com
The Adoption Process in New York State
2025
paultortoralaw.com
The Use of Psychiatric Evaluations in Child Custody Matters
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Parental Alienation in Custody Determinations
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Understanding Grandparent Custody Rights in New York State
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Can I Modify an Existing Child Support Order in New York?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Can I Modify an Existing Child Support Order in New York?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
What is a No-Fault Divorce in New York?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Modifying Child Custody Orders in New York: What You Need to Know
2025
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Legal Custody vs. Physical Custody: What’s the Difference?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
How Much Do a Child's Wishes Matter in New York Custody Cases?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
The Impact of Mental Health on Custody Determinations in New York State
2025
paultortoralaw.com
How Child Support Is Determined in 50/50 Custody Cases in New York
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Can I Date While Getting Divorced in New York?
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Understanding Separation Agreements in New York: What You Need to Know
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Understanding How Maintenance Is Calculated in New York State
2025
2025
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Understanding How Child Support is Calculated in New York State
2025
paultortoralaw.com
Navigating Child Custody Jurisdiction When Parents Live in Different States
2023
New York Daily Record
How To File For Divorce: Step-By-Step Guide
2023
New York Daily Record
Things To Do When Filing For Divorce In New York
2022
LinkedIn
Turkeys for Veterans Initiative
2022
The Saratogian
Ask The Attorneys
2022
CNY Business Journal
People on the Move
2022
Syracuse Post Standard
Company news: Paul J. Tortora Jr. hired by Tully Rinckey law firm’s Syracuse office
2022
2020
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers