Patricia Fersch
Patricia Fersch is a distinguished family law attorney and founding partner of Fersch LLC, where she specializes in high-conflict divorce and custody cases, guiding clients and their children from difficult situations toward safety, stability, and financial security. Known for her empathetic yet practical approach, Patricia combines rigorous preparation with a deep understanding of her clients’ unique circumstances, ensuring their stories are compellingly and truthfully presented in court. Over her nearly three-decade career, she has handled thousands of cases, including complex international and high-profile matters, earning a reputation for excellence in Family and Supreme Courts across New York.
Before pursuing law, Patricia began her professional journey in private business, designing and selling costume jewelry, and later gained formative experience working in a nursing home, which clarified her desire to help others. She attended New York University and New York Law School, where an internship representing children inspired her to focus on family law. After being admitted to practice in New York and federal courts in 1994, she opened the Patricia Ann Fersch Family Law Center, later founding Fersch LLC with partners Maxine Donskoi and Meryl Hoeft in 2019.
Patricia is also deeply committed to public service and pro bono work. She co-founded the Matrimonial Pro Bono Project with the Women’s Bar Association and New York Law School, providing legal representation to deserving litigants, and has received numerous awards for her service, including the Hanna S. Cohn Pro Bono Award, the FamilyKind Service Award, and repeated recognition in New York Super Lawyers. A contributor to Forbes on family law and women’s leadership, Patricia also serves as Chairperson of the FamilyKind Board and is a member of the statewide “Women and the Courts” committee, advocating for fairness and justice in family court.
• New York Law School- J.D.
• New York University- B.A.
• FamilyKind Service Award
• Hanna S. Cohn Pro Bono Award
• Recognition in New York Super Lawyers
• Forbes
• FamilyKind
• Women and the Courts
• Women's Bar Association Matrimonial Pro Bono Project
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of hard work, meticulous preparation, and staying true to my values, particularly empathy and integrity. By blending a deep understanding of people with rigorous legal advocacy, I’ve been able to guide clients through some of the most challenging moments of their lives while making a meaningful, lasting impact.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Trust your instincts, balance empathy with professional boundaries, prepare meticulously, and always present yourself with confidence and respect in court.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are empathy, integrity, and dedication—both in advocating for my clients and in living a rich, curious life. I also deeply value creativity, culture, and lifelong learning, which I pursue through art, travel, theater, and reading. Shout out to Nicci French who is my absolute favorite!