July 2, 2010, New York, .NY. - The Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York (“WBASNY”) applauds the New York State Assembly’s passing of Assembly Bill A-9753-A, sponsored by Assemblyman Jonathan Bing, the companion bill to the recently passed Senate Bill S-3890-A, sponsored by Senator Hassell-Thompson.  These bills will permit either spouse to obtain a divorce upon a sworn statement that there has been an irretrievable breakdown in the marriage for at least six months without having to prove adultery, abandonment or cruel and inhuman treatment ("No Fault Legislation"). WBASNY also applauds Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and Assemblywoman Helene Weinstein, Chair of the Assembly Judiciary Committee, for their leadership in bringing Assembly Bill A-9753-A to the floor for a vote.

“We are pleased and gratified that the New York State Senate and Assembly have passed this historic legislation,” stated Deborah Weisman-Estis, President of WBASNY. “Our Association’s Mission includes the advancement of women in society and the equal administration of justice for all.  We have supported no-fault legislation because it will provide justice for and empower persons trapped in abusive marriages and those who otherwise had few if any real options under New York’s draconian, fault-based divorce laws.  We urge Governor Paterson to sign this legislation into law before the end of the current legislative session, so that New York citizens may finally conserve their financial and emotional resources in matrimonial proceedings.”

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