Rena M. O'Connor

Rena M. O’Connor, a life-long Poughkeepsie resident, focuses her practice primarily on matrimonial and family law, general litigation and real estate.

Rena is dedicated to providing personalized legal support to individuals and families in matters that can be emotionally and financially challenging. Rena’s legal aptitude and passion for her role as advocate and trusted advisor, coupled with the tremendous amount of respect she has garnered in both the legal community and from her clients, are undeniable assets to individuals and families involved in family law issues.

Rena is considered one of the leading matrimonial and family law practitioners in the area. In matters such as divorce, separation agreements, child custody and support, guardianship, spousal support, adoption and prenuptial agreements, clients can be assured that they will receive comprehensive guidance, advocacy, and legal protection.

Rena is one of the founding members of the Hudson Valley Collaborative Divorce & Dispute Resolution Association, Ltd. This innovative and interdisciplinary approach to divorce offers parties an alternative to litigation. Collectively, the parties work with their attorneys, divorce coaches, and financial specialists to reach an amicable settlement. This contemporary and cost-effective approach can be an excellent resource for those seeking an alternative route.

Notable Representations

• Represented thousands of clients in litigation cases involving custody, child support, spousal support and divorce.

• Represented thousands of clients who resolved their divorce matters without implementing litigation.

• Drafted thousands of separation agreements, prenuptial and post marital agreements which addressed complex issues involving custody, finances, support and asset distribution to include pensions, business interests and real estate.

• Founding Member of the Hudson Valley Collaborative Divorce & Dispute Resolution Associations, Ltd.

• Successfully won an appeal, representing the respondent who owned a business and whose spouse sought a share in its value. The case continues to be cited by trial and appellate courts.

• Successfully won an appeal, representing the appellant who sought child support after the trial court denied support where it found the appellant to have interfered with visitation.

• Prepared and finalized hundreds of domestic relations orders and worked closely with the plan administrators to successfully obtain clients’ rights to their former spouses’ pension plans and retirement accounts.

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

Dutchess County Bar Association

Mid-Hudson Women’s Bar Association

New York State Bar Association

Founding Member, Hudson Valley Collaborative Practice Divorce & Dispute Resolution Association, Ltd.

Member, Dutchess County Bar Association Grievance Committee

International Academy of Collaborative Professionals (IACP)

Former Vice Chair and Member, Grace Smith House, Inc.

Former Vice Chair and Member, YWCA of Dutchess County, New York, Inc.