Credentials & Bio

• BA Degree (1965) – City College of New York (CUNY) major in International Politics, minor in literature.
• “Who’s Who among American College Students – 1965”
• CUNY Delegate to International Model United Nations Conference -1964
• Community Service Organizer instituting and directing legal services, Bklyn, NY -1967
• Jurus Doctorate Degree – Brooklyn Law School – 1968
• Admitted to the Bar in New York – 1969
• Admitted to practice in Federal Courts – 1970
• General Law Practice w/ specialization in Matrimonial Law – 1977 to Current

ACHIEVEMENTS & ACCOLADES

• Recognized as one of the 2017-2023 U.S News “Best Law Firms” in the New York City “Family Law ” Category
• Frequent Analyst and Commentator on COURT TV (Matrimonial and Divorce “expert”)
• Awarded an AV rating and 2017-2026 Top Rated Lawyer (its highest) – Martindale – Hubbell Peer Review
  Ratings Service Law directory.
• 2026 Martindale Hubbell Award with an AV Preeminent Attorney Rating for “Highest Possible Rating in Both Legal Ability & Ethical Standards
• Accepted to The National Advocates: Top 100 lawyers in the Country; exclusive, invitation-only organization.
• Consecutive annual selections 2007 – 2024: New York Times Super Lawyers Section (Recognized for Exhibiting Excellence in the Practice of Law)
• Paul Eric Rudder, Esq. has been named in the 2024 Best Law Firms® rankings.
• Appointed to the New York City Bar Association Matrimonial Committee as of August 2015.
• “Top Lawyer” in Divorce Law field.
• Certified Law Guardian for Children, State of New York
• Co-Chair of Matrimonial Section of NY County Lawyers Association 2001-2004
• Attorney of record on the winning side of several important and unique Test cases

( see Noteworthy Cases Page for details)

ASSOCIATIONS

• Former co-chair of the New York County Lawyer’s Association-Matrimonial Section – 2001 – 2004
• Interdisciplinary Committee on Child Custody – 2005 – Present
• Member of the Matrimonial Committee of the Bar Association of the City New York
• Member of The Association of Family and Conciliation Courts – 2014 – Present

RECENT PUBLICATIONS

• How A Separation Agreement Can Make Divorce Less Terrible

Read articles about divorce and family law here.

Paul E. Rudder, Esq. is a highly experienced New York divorce and family law attorney whose career spans more than 30 years. As a single practitioner, he provides direct, hands-on legal representation to every client from the beginning through the resolution of their case.

Mr. Rudder represents clients in all aspects of divorce and family law, including child custody, support, equitable distribution of assets, and pre- and post-nuptial agreements. He has extensive litigation experience in New York State Supreme and Family Courts. At the same time, his focus is not to escalate conflict unnecessarily, but to resolve matters in a way that is practical, fair, and workable for the people involved.

A Thoughtful, Conflict-Conscious Approach to Divorce

If it is time to alter your “at home” living arrangement or to leave your marriage, it is important to work with an attorney who can help you move forward with a clear plan, while minimizing unnecessary conflict wherever possible.

Paul is known for his ability to de-escalate emotionally charged situations, particularly where children are involved. He has spent decades working through these issues in real cases, not just in theory, and understands how quickly conflict can spiral if not handled properly.

As Paul explains, “we meet our clients at a time of great stress and disillusion; we encounter expressions of anger, rejection, and fear.” Whether a matter involves custody, financial support, or division of assets, he approaches each case with the understanding that these are deeply personal issues that require both legal skill and sound judgment.

Experience in High-Conflict Divorce & Custody Matters

Over the course of his career, Paul has handled, through both trial and negotiated settlement, a wide range of matrimonial matters, including custody disputes, financial issues, and division of assets.

He is regularly entrusted by the courts to serve as an attorney for children in highly contested custody cases. These matters require not only legal experience, but balance, credibility, and the ability to work through difficult family dynamics.

In many cases, Paul is able to identify a path forward that reduces conflict and leads to a more workable outcome, even where the parties begin far apart.

Personal Attention and Trusted Guidance

Each client represented by Mr. Rudder works directly with him. He does not pass cases off or delegate critical work. Every case is handled personally, from start to finish.

Clients receive clear, honest advice and a realistic understanding of what to expect. Having appeared before many judges and handled a wide range of cases over the years, Paul brings a practical perspective to each matter.

He approaches his work with care, patience, and a strong sense of responsibility to the people he represents.

A Career Built on Experience and Reputation

Mr. Rudder began his legal career in civil rights and criminal defense, followed by administering a community legal services program in Brooklyn. These early experiences shaped his understanding of people, conflict, and the realities that often underlie legal disputes.

Over the years, he has built a respected matrimonial practice and earned the trust of clients, colleagues, and judges. Much of his work comes from referrals, including from other attorneys who recognize his experience and judgment in handling complex or sensitive matters.

Guided by Practical Judgment and Integrity

Paul’s role as an attorney is to provide clear advice, develop an effective strategy, and take appropriate legal action when necessary. At the same time, he understands that not every situation benefits from escalation, and in some cases, restraint is the better course.

His approach is grounded in experience, fairness, and a realistic understanding of how these matters are resolved in the real world.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are considering divorce or facing a family law matter in New York, Paul E. Rudder, Esq. can help you understand your options and take the next step.

Call (212) 826-9900 to schedule a consultation.

Guest and Expert Commentator on Court TV (1990 to 2000)

Contact Paul Eric Rudder

Paul E. Rudder, ESQ – Divorce Lawyer NYC
950 Third Avenue, 11th Floor
New York, NY 10022

T: 212 826-9900
E: paul@paulrudderlaw.com