About Sharon
Sharon M. Faulkner is a attorney specializing in family law, with a particular emphasis on matrimonial and collaborative law. Currently, she practices at Ostertag O'Leary Barrett & Faulkner, located in Poughkeepsie, New York. This firm is known for its commitment to providing comprehensive legal services in family-related matters. Raised in Dutchess County, Ms. Faulkner returned to New York in 2001 after an extensive nine-year legal career in Hawaii, where she developed her skills in various aspects of family law. Ms.
Faulkner earned her Juris Doctor from Western New England University School of Law in 1992. Prior to that, she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Douglass College at Rutgers University in 1989. Her academic background laid a solid foundation for her legal career. Admitted to the New York State Bar in 2002, she also holds licenses to practice law in Hawaii, where she was admitted in 1992, and in the District of Columbia, where she became licensed in 2001. Her qualifications extend to federal courts as well; she is admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York since 2002 and the U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaii since 1995.
At Ostertag O'Leary Barrett & Faulkner, Ms. Faulkner focuses on many family law matters, including divorce, adoption, alimony, child support, custody, and collaborative law. Her expertise in these areas has made her a sought-after attorney in Dutchess County. She has been appointed as Attorney for the Child in custody and visitation disputes, a role that shows her commitment to advocating for children's best interests. In recognition of her work, Ms. Faulkner received the Dutchess County Family Court's "Law Guardian of the Year" award in 2008, highlighting her dedication and effectiveness in family law. Ms.
Faulkner is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, an organization dedicated to improving the practice of family law. Her involvement in the legal community extends to the Dutchess County Bar Association, where she has served in various leadership roles, including Vice President from 2013 to 2014, Secretary from 2012 to 2013, and Assistant Treasurer from 2011 to 2012. Additionally, she is a member of the Women's Bar Association of the State of New York and the American Bar Association, further demonstrating her commitment to advancing the legal profession. In addition to her legal practice, Ms. Faulkner is actively involved in community service. Since 2017, she has served on the Vassar Brothers Medical Center Foundation Board, contributing her time and expertise to support healthcare initiatives in the region. Her multifaceted career reflects a strong commitment to both her clients and her community, making her a respected figure in the field of family law in New York.
