Clifford Petroske

For more than three decades, Clifford J. Petroske has built a reputation as a trusted advocate in the complex and often emotionally charged field of matrimonial and family law. As a founding partner of Petroske Riezenman & Meyers, P.C., he has established himself as one of the best divorce lawyers on Long Island, and has dedicated his practice to guiding clients through custody disputes, spousal maintenance modifications, child support matters, and other family-related legal matters with a pragmatic and strategic approach.

Petroske’s career in family law began soon after his admission to the New York Bar in 1990. After working as an associate at a Garden City law firm, he launched his own practice in 1992—an endeavor that would eventually evolve into one of Long Island’s recognized matrimonial law firms. Over the years, he has represented a broad range of clients, from professionals and business owners to union members, first responders, and stay-at-home parents, helping them navigate the legal and financial complexities that accompany divorce and family litigation.

Known for his combination of courtroom skill and practical judgment, Petroske has handled hundreds of divorce and family law cases throughout New York. While many matters are resolved through negotiation, he is equally experienced in litigation and appellate work, having successfully prosecuted and defended numerous appeals involving custody, support, and equitable distribution issues.

A Long Island native, Petroske earned his undergraduate degree cum laude from the State University of New York at Stony Brook in 1986 before obtaining his J.D. from Hofstra University School of Law in 1989, where he served as editor of the Hofstra Environmental Law Digest. His legal education, combined with experience across related areas such as bankruptcy, criminal, and corporate law, has equipped him to address the multifaceted issues that often arise in matrimonial litigation.

Throughout his career, Petroske has remained active in the legal community. He is a member of the New York State Bar Association and the Suffolk County Bar Association, including their family law committees. His work in the field has earned recognition from several professional organizations, including repeated selection to the New York Metro Super Lawyers list and peer-review distinctions from Martindale-Hubbell for professional achievement and ethical standards.

In addition to his litigation practice, Petroske has contributed to legal scholarship and professional discourse, publishing articles on family law issues such as custody and visitation rights. His writing reflects a broader commitment to educating both clients and practitioners about the evolving legal landscape surrounding family relationships.

Today, from his office in Suffolk County on Long Island, Petroske continues to advocate for individuals and families facing some of life’s most difficult transitions—combining decades of experience with a practical understanding of how legal outcomes affect real lives.