Attorneys
DANIELLE R. PETITTI
“If you’re going through hell, keep going.” – Winston Churchill.
From the inception of Danielle’s career in law, she has practiced exclusively in the areas of matrimonial and family law in the City of New York. Known as a candid and skilled advocate for her clients, Danielle places the utmost value on strategy and integrity within even the most difficult or complex litigation. Danielle’s practice focuses on complex and high net worth matters, having significant experience in cases where business valuation is required. Danielle also has experience representing high profile clients.
While many who have experienced Danielle within legal proceedings may describe her as a fierce and aggressive litigator, she recognizes that problem-solving (as opposed to problem-making) is the primary role of a family law practitioner.
While most matrimonial and family law matters eventually settle and do not require a trial, where a case requires a trial Danielle is an experienced and formidable trial attorney. Where a case can be settled, Danielle brings a unique “straight-to-the-point” style of advocacy and works relentlessly to find solutions for clients and their children.
Danielle has also successfully handled various matters in both the Appellate Division First and Second Departments, taught on the topic of Matrimonial Law and has in the past served as a student mentor in the area of Matrimonial Law at her alma mater, New York Law School.
Since 2014, Danielle is proud to be selected to the New York Super Lawyers list. Generally reserved for five percent of lawyers 40-years or older, the New York Super Lawyers first selected Danielle at the age of 34. Additionally, Danielle has been included in the American Society of Legal Advocates list of the Top 40 Family Lawyers Under 40 in New York State from 2013 through 2020 and she has been named among The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 from 2014 through 2020.
Danielle prides herself on providing all clients with excellent service and attention. Understanding that a divorce or other family law matters are often the worst and most trying time of a client’s life, Danielle recognizes the importance of being reachable whenever needed.
Education
- New York Law School, J.D., 2005
- College of Charleston, B.A., 2002
Admitted
- New York State Bar Association, 2006
Associations
MICHAEL T. ETZRODT
Michael T. Etzrodt represents and advises the most accomplished individuals in connection with all aspects of matrimonial and family law. He has significant experience settling and litigating complicated disputes at both the trial and appellate levels in the areas of equitable distribution of assets, spousal and child support, child custody and access, and prenuptial, postnuptial and separation agreements.
Prior to attending law school in 1993, Michael worked for 8 years as an entrepreneur, developing and managing various business interests in the hotel and restaurant industry, as well as managing various real estate interests. Upon graduation from law school, Michael worked for a general practice firm, representing clients in many different areas of the law, including matrimonial and family law, real estate, trusts and estates, personal injury and criminal matters. Since 2006, he has practiced exclusively in the area of matrimonial and family law.
In 2007, Michael successfully completed the American Bar Association’s Family Law Trial Institute course and was appointed to the First Department’s Roster of Neutral Evaluators for the Matrimonial Neutral Evaluation Program.
Michael earned his B.A. in Business Administration and Accounting from Franklin & Marshall College and his J.D. from Brooklyn Law School.
Education
- Brooklyn Law School, 1996
- Franklin and Marshall College, B.A., 1985
Admitted
- New York State Bar Association, 1997
- New Jersey State Bar Association, 1998
- U.S. District Court Southern District of New York, 1998
- U.S. District Court Eastern District of New York, 1998
- U.S. District Court District of New Jersey, 1998
Associations
- New York State Bar Association
- Matrimonial Neutral Evaluation Panel
(1st Department)