meet
Debra L. Mechanick
Uniquely Qualified
Debra L. Mechanick is a distinguished matrimonial attorney, licensed to practice in New York State, who holds a Masters in Social Work degree from Columbia University and a Juris Doctor law degree from Pace University. This dual degree confers a unique skillset Debra uses to solve complex matrimonial problems.
The MECHANICK LAW Three-Step Approach:
Preparing for Marriage
step 1
Determine if a prenuptial agreement is right for you
Legal Analysis
step 2
Written Contract
Memorialize your shared goals
step 3
Continued legal support as needed after your wedding day
Follow Up
Attorney Fees
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Consultation
Your initial 45-minute consultation is $550.00, paid in advance at the time of scheduling. Additional time is billed at $825.00 per hour, calculated in 6-minute increments.
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Retainer Agreement
Fees are determined by unique circumstances; therefore, total cost for each case will vary. Within 48 hours of your consultation, you will receive a detailed cost estimate and the required deposit amount to begin representation.
FAQs
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The MECHANICK LAW Three-Step Approach simplifies complex premarital legal issues. The first step is “analysis,” the second is “contract,” and the third is “follow up.” As noted in client testimonials, Debra understands that the key to a durable prenuptial agreement, if needed, is to listen attentively to each client’s priorities, to communicate clearly about the law, to draft terms and conditions based on intelligent reasoning, to oversee the execution and implementation of the prenup with meticulous care, and to be available aseven after all obligations contained in the prenup are satisfied.
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Once you have a clear understanding of the law on divorce or death during marriage, you will have the tools necessary to decide which laws apply to your individual situation. You can then make informed decisions about your own rules regarding distribution of property, financial support, and estate planning.
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Starting a conversation with your future spouse about a prenup can be daunting. Open and honest communication is key. Debra provides guidance on having respectful discussions with your partner, focusing on mutual understanding and shared goals rather than conflict.
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If you’re short on time before your wedding, a postnuptial agreement is an option. This type of agreement is created after the wedding and offers similar protections, allowing you both to address important legal matters even after the big day.
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It’s highly recommended that each partner has independent legal counsel. Having your own lawyer ensures that both parties fully understand the agreement and their rights, making the prenup more likely to be fair and enforceable.
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For a prenup to be enforceable, it must be entered into knowingly and voluntarily, executed properly, and reviewed by separate counsel, with terms that are fair and reasonable.
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If you’re already living together, it is still possible—and often wise—to create a prenup. Cohabitating couples may have shared assets or debts, and a prenup can clarify how these will be handled in the future.
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Yes. Prenups can be modified or revoked after marriage if both parties agree. This flexibility allows you to update your agreement as your circumstances or priorities change over time.