I too was divorced in New York two years ago.(Chemung county) and have also prepared many dissolutions through the New York judicial system in various different counties, all successfully brought to final hearing. A divorce lawyer is always going to advise their client to go the route of the "fault" divorce, how else would they make a decent living, poor things? If the separation agreement is prepared correctly and all issues are agreed upon, a couple can and many do prepare, file and obtain legal dissolutions of marriage without benefit or expense of an attorney, not only in New York State but all over the country. Most states have come to realize that not everyone can afford the high fees charged by attorneys. Over the past 15 or so years the courts are attempting to accomodate those individuals by becoming "no fault" states. Most county courts offer packets to assist non-lawyers with their petitions and even provide court personnel, called Intake, with filing those petitions. My suggestion to the original poster is to simply call the clerk of court in your county and ask. Do not ask for legal advice as they will quickly tell you they do not give legal advice. Do ask if you may prepare and file your own divorce, separation agreement to be incorporated. If so, ask if they provide the forms, usually a small fee. They should be more than willing to assist you, the taxpayer, with your query. Best of luck.