Christina Lana Shine, Esq.

Hi, I’m Christina Lana Shine and I help individuals and families navigate divorce and related family law matters with a focus on achieving fair, workable solutions—whether through mediation or in the courtroom. From divorce and custody arrangements to child support and modifications of existing agreements, I guide you through the process with clarity and advocacy.

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PRACTICE AREAS

Divorce Mediation

Divorce mediation is a cooperative, out-of-court process in which I help couples reach mutually agreeable terms for ending their marriage. Instead of battling in court, both parties work together to resolve key issues such as property division, child custody, and support. Mediation is typically faster, more affordable, and less stressful than litigation, while also allowing for greater privacy and control over the final outcome.

Legal Separation

Legal separation is a formal process that allows spouses to live apart while remaining legally married. It involves creating a binding agreement that addresses important issues such as property division, child custody, support, and financial responsibilities. Legal separation can provide structure and protection without ending the marriage, making it a suitable option for couples who are not ready for divorce but need clear legal arrangements moving forward.

Uncontested Divorce

An uncontested divorce is a streamlined legal process in which both spouses agree on all major issues, including property division, child custody, support, and debts. Because there are no disputes to resolve in court, the process is typically faster, more affordable, and less stressful than a contested divorce. It allows couples to finalize their separation efficiently while maintaining greater control over the outcome.

Contested Divorce

A contested divorce occurs when spouses are unable to agree on one or more key issues, such as property division, child custody, child support, or spousal maintenance. Because these disputes require court involvement, the process can be more complex, time-consuming, and emotionally challenging than an uncontested divorce. If the parties are unable to reach a negotiated settlement agreement, the judge makes the final decisions to resolve the remaining issues.

Client Reviews

When I came into Christina’s office I was a very distraught woman as I had found out that my husband was cheating on me. Christina fought for my best interests tooth and nail. She never gave up on me and she was there for me every step of the way. I know through my own experience with Christina that she fights for her clients and she doesn’t back down. She has helped me regain the confidence I lost. Christina Shine is an excellent attorney and I thank her from the bottom of my heart.

Ruth

Christina is the consummate professional who practices law. She explained the process of divorce, New York state divorce law, and divorce court in a clear and concise manner that allowed us to manage my expectations. This was essential, given the fact that I am a disabled Veteran with traumatic brain injury and post traumatic stress wounds. Christina is intuitively a mediator and sensitive to people’s anxieties; she provided value-added options for me to consider as she mentored me through the entire process. I have recommended Christina to family, friends and fellow Veterans because her integrity and character speaks directly to the quality service she provides.

Tim

Christina Shine handled my contentious divorce and custody case with great success. She was tenacious in the proceedings and in court even while making attempts to settle the case. Christina’s vast experience told her, that a settlement would be the best outcome for my ex-husband and I because we had to continue to find ways to coexist after the divorce. I would highly recommend Christina Shine for anyone going through a divorce and/or child custody proceedings.

Jen

While looking for an alternative to a confrontational lawyer-led divorce, a friend recommended that we consider Christina Shine for Divorce Mediation. I never imagined that mediation could possibly work for us but after our initial appointment both my ex and I agreed that Christina was someone that we could work with. The process seemed to be logical, sequential, and comprehensive. Christina was a strong, knowledgeable influence throughout the process. She was able to calm emotional periods (which there were a lot of), answer any questions, and keep us on task to achieve an agreement. She was professional, organized, knowledgeable, friendly, patient, and clear. I would recommend Christina Shine without hesitation to any couple in the difficult situation of considering divorce.

Mara

I have known Christina Shine for over 10 years. She has handled Matrimonial matters for me and she is an EXPERT at her craft. For the last 8 years she has been dealing with what the Law Judges have deemed one of the most difficult cases they have seen. She is always prepared, professional and never leaves anything to chance. Also, she comes highly recommended as a Mediator. If you have a friend, family member or even you, that needs to know how to navigate through the “system” and want excellent representation with fair disposition, Christina is the person you should contact. Mediation makes the most sense, but if that is not possible, she will protect all your interests.

Charles H.