My Name is Paul Matthews. I am an experienced and affordable family lawyer, child custody lawyer, and child support lawyer who created this website in 2011, and has written the content herein. As a passionate advocate for my clients, I strive to provide thorough legal representation across various areas of family law. I understand that the right attorney-client relationship is crucial to achieving positive results for those I represent, particularly when modifications to existing agreements are necessary. Access to quality legal advice can be a pivotal part of your plan to navigate family law challenges effectively.
After graduating Summa Cum Laude (highest honors) from law school, I opened my family law firm in downtown Manhattan in 1996. To date, I have tried well over 500 cases. The majority of these cases have been child custody, visitation, or child support cases..
Attorney fees have always been high, but in recent years it has become even more difficult and challenging to find an experienced attorney who is willing to work for fees that can be considered in any way to be reasonable and affordable. During my career, which has now spanned over 25 years, I have always tried to provide high-quality services at reasonable rates. I understand the financial strain legal disputes can impose and endeavor to lessen this burden for clients. The attorney-client relationship should always be one of mutual trust and understanding, aimed at securing successful results while being mindful of financial limitations. Modifications to billing structures can provide more access to those in need of legal advice without excessive financial burdens.
At the present time, I am only taking selected appellate cases which come from the Family Court, although I do expect this to change at some time in the furture, possibly by the end of 2025.
Custody Lawyers In New York- Affordable Representation
Introducing Nick Pedersen
At the present time, I am only taking selected appellate cases. However, I do refer cases to Nicholas Pederson, a New York family law and matrimoniall attorney with over 10 years of experience in contested divorce cases and all types of Family Law cases. Nick and I are not partners and we do not handle cases together, however, he is a good friend and colleague who, like me, understands that very few people can afford the sky-high fees that are being charged by attorneys in the New York Metropolitan area nowadays. He charges reasonable fees, including reasonable initial retainers, and offers a 30-minute consultation by phone or Zoom for only $150.00. Nick handles all of the following types of matters, ensuring that clients manage their legal assets effectively and pursue the best possible outcome. This kind of collaborative plan allows clients to access the best legal support.
- Divorce
- Child support
- Child custody
- Guardianship
- Visitation rights
- Paternity
- Orders of protection (domestic violence cases)
- Neglect % abuse cases
- Fair hearings to challenge indicated ACS cases
Child Custody And Visitation Hearings In NYC
If you are a parent facing a contested child custody case, you may be in for the most important case of your life, whether you are a husband or wife, mom or dad, or even a guardian who is not a parent. You may have serious concerns about the fitness of the other parent, or you may just be confused about the legal process. Therefore, in addition to doing your own reading and research, you should look for a family law attorney who has extensive experience and has done many New York child custody trials. It’s crucial to be well-informed and to have expert guidance when navigating such complex legal areas to achieve a favorable outcome. This process should be part of a carefully thought-out plan where access to experienced legal professionals ensures peace of mind.
Child custody matters are different from most other cases in that the scope of child custody issues and facts tends to be extremely broad. In custody cases, the scope of relevance, and hence the scope of the child custody hearing can include the entire life history of both parties, any evidence pertaining to the character and fitness of each of the parties, and any evidence pertaining to the safety and well-being of the child or children.
As a dedicated advocate, I meticulously gather and present comprehensive information to support my clients’ cases. In the attorney-client relationship, transparency and thorough communication are key to ensuring that all assets of the case are effectively leveraged. Proper preparation is crucial, especially when addressing sensitive issues such as allegations concerning parental capabilities, which could influence decisions on custody and alimony arrangements. Through compassionate action, I aim to highlight the benefits of pursuing a resolution that places the child’s best interests at the forefront of every decision.
It is usually better to come to a fair agreement or settlement with the other parent, if possible. If your relationship with the other party is still fairly amicable, you may be able to find an affordable family law attorney with a divorce and custody mediation practice, who might be able to come up with a parenting agreement that resolves child custody and visitation issues in a way that works for you. This approach often results in a more satisfactory outcome for all parties involved, preserving both emotional and financial assets in the process. In divorce cases, factoring in alimony considerations alongside custody decisions is essential to a comprehensive resolution. It is sometimes possible to come up with an agreement and get divorced without ever having to go to court.
Seeking assistance from a legal professional can be invaluable in ensuring that the matter is resolved amicably and efficiently, considering the best interests of all parties involved. The benefits of such a collaborative approach can greatly enhance the overall experience for everyone.
If you choose mediation and there is a proposed parenting agreement, you will still need your own child custody lawyer to look over the paperwork for the proposed agreement and give you advice as to your rights under New York state law. This situation calls for the maintenance of open communication and understanding between all parties to ensure a fair outcome, while also addressing any potential allegations that might arise during the negotiation process. Taking proactive action in reviewing and discussing the agreement can prevent misunderstandings and reinforce the foundation of trust and compassion necessary during challenging times.
If a child custody proceeding has to be tried, the court may appoint a neutral child psychologist to do an evaluation and a written report with recommendations about who should have custody, as well as a visitation schedule for the non-custodial parent. This assistance from a neutral expert ensures that the final decision is made in the best interest of the child, considering all relevant factors, including any preparations necessary to implement the psychologist’s recommendations effectively. The psychologist’s role highlights the benefits of having an unbiased perspective aimed at the well-being of the child.
Dealing with direct and cross-examination of mental health professionals or other expert witnesses requires a high level of knowledge, experience, and advocacy by experienced family law attorneys. I am committed to providing clients with robust representation, ensuring their voices are heard during these critical disputes, no matter how complex the situation may be. With compassion and decisive action, I strive to ensure that my clients’ needs are met and their rights protected, always emphasizing the benefits of a well-constructed legal strategy.Preparing for potential allegations and ensuring accurate representation throughout the process is key to achieving a favorable outcome. Assessing how individuals relate to each other within family dynamics becomes crucial, especially when considering factors like age and the impact of marriage on child custody arrangements.
Statistics & Facts
- Approximately 72% of child custody cases in NYC are resolved through mediation.
- Over 1,200 child custody lawyers operate within Manhattan alone.
- Roughly 48% of parents in custody disputes report feeling overwhelmed by the legal process.
- In New York City, about 15% of child custody cases go to trial each year.
- On average, a child custody case in NYC can take up to 12 months to resolve.
- New York courts prioritize the child’s best interests when determining custody.
- There are two types of custody: legal and physical.
- Joint custody is possible but requires cooperation between parents. In high net worth divorce cases joint custody can become a bargaining chip.
- A child custody lawyer helps navigate complex legal processes.
- Mediation may be used to resolve custody disputes amicably.
New York Custody Laws You Need To Know For Negotiation
New York child custody law is relatively straightforward. For initial cases between parents, the legal standard is “best interests” of the child or children. However, this standard is extremely broad and encompasses anything that has to do with the child’s health, safety, needs, and welfare, as well as the maintenance of a stable and supportive environment for the child. Family dynamics, including the age and marriage status of the parents, may also involve discussions about alimony as part of the broader context.
If the case is between parents and involves modifications of a previous custody order, the party seeking to modify has the burden of proving to the client and the family court that a “substantial change of circumstances” exists since the date of the previous order. New York courts—and even higher judicial bodies like the supreme court—favor stability in custody arrangements. This can be particularly challenging with factors such as the age of the children and the evolving nature of marriage between the parents, which can affect relationships and overall family dynamics. Therefore, custody modifications that involve actual changes of physical custody can sometimes be difficult to obtain, requiring well-documented evidence and professional assistance as crucial steps towards achieving the desired goals for the child’s welfare.
If the case involves a parent against a non-parent (including grandparents and other family members), the non-parent has to show the existence of so-called “exceptional circumstances” in order to prevail. Such scenarios require meticulous preparation and understanding of the unique challenges that allegations might present in such complex family matters. Examples of exceptional circumstances include a parent’s drug use, alcohol abuse, serious mental illness, abuse or neglect of children, being the perpetrator of domestic violence in the household, or having a poor or unhealthy relationship with the child or children. Each of these situations demands careful consideration and legal guidance as the first step. Understanding how each individual involved interacts with each other adds another layer to navigate effectively and set achievable goals for a better outcome.
Custody Relocation Cases (Legal Standards)
The U.S. has been a highly mobile country for some time. While the legal standard for relocation cases is governed by the case of Tropea v. Tropea, that case and its progeny cases really just refine the best interests standard, with an emphasis on certain factors, such as the need for education and the well-being of the child. It is crucial that the court considers all elements, considering how the marriage stability and interactions between each other might impact proceedings, perhaps even consulting the supreme court in complex cases. This thorough consideration can help resolve the case efficiently, providing a satisfactory resolution for all involved parties.
The easiest relocation cases to win for the custodial parent involve situations where the custodial parent moves out of state to get away from domestic violence and/or where the non-custodial parent is not paying child support, causing economic difficulties that impact the well-being of the child or children.
What Does Joint Legal Custody Mean In New York?
The term “joint legal custody” has different meanings in different states, and is often misunderstood or confused with something called “shared custody.” In New York State, legal custody refers to who has the power to make decisions regarding the child or children, including important aspects such as their education and healthcare. Proper maintenance of these responsibilities is crucial for ensuring that the child’s needs are met comprehensively.
If you are the victim of domestic violence or other harassment or abuse by your spouse or former partner, you should think long and hard about agreeing to joint legal custody. Holidays, for instance, can often heighten emotions and exacerbate conflicts, making it crucial to seek help and understand your rights within the family court or the supreme court if necessary. This understanding provides essential support in making informed decisions about custody, no matter how challenging the situation may seem. This consideration is a crucial step in aligning personal goals with the legal resources available.
Many custody cases are resolved with an order of “joint legal custody,” which requires both parents to consult with one another about major decisions but where the parent with physical custody has the final decision-making authority on any issue where the parents cannot agree. This arrangement is very different from true joint legal custody where both parents must agree as to any major decisions. Knowing the specifics of these terms and how they apply within the state or even higher courts can help parents step forward in the best interest of their children and their established goals. Planning and coordinating time, especially around holidays, often sends a message to both parents about the importance of cooperation, shared responsibilities, and finding effective solutions in raising their child.
In NY, legal custody or joint legal custody does not have anything to do with the amount of child support, but rather with the decision-making and responsibilities regarding the child’s life, such as education and health care. Parents must explore all potential solutions to ensure the child’s welfare is prioritized, so that the joyous times, like holidays, remain stress-free for the child.
It is extremely rare for a judge to order joint custody over the objection of either party and almost never when there is a lot of conflict between spouses or parents, although agreements for joint custody are common where the mother and father get along well with only occasional minor disputes. Harmonious cooperation and practical solutions can significantly help ensure that the decision-making process remains in the best interest of the children and avoids lengthy custody disputes that can be stressful for all parties involved. This cooperation is particularly important during peak holiday seasons when both parents aim to share cherished moments with their children.
Visitation Cases In New York
The New York courts have been replacing the term “visitation” with “parenting time” or “access time.” The law in New York is very clear that visitation is a right that each parent has and also that children have a right to visitation. This is one of the reasons why, in custody and visitation cases, “older” kids are often assigned their own attorneys by the court. If you have more than one child, your son may even be assigned his own attorney, and your daughter may be assigned her own attorney.
Visitation cases are sometimes as long, drawn out, and contentious as custody cases, and can involve testimony of multiple witnesses, including expert witnesses, and can sometimes even involve forensic custody evaluations. This underscores the need for effective legal solutions and emphasizes the importance of having representation by an experienced child custody lawyer who can help navigate these complex legal processes effectively.
An experienced family law attorney will also know how to protect the record for appeal, because, if there is a hearing, the loser and sometimes even the winner may have the ability to challenge the final order in the appellate courts. If you have already had a hearing and have lost your case, you will likely need an appellate lawyer who has done many custody cases. Appellate litigation, like child custody law, is its own specialty. Proper legal education and guidance are crucial as they offer solutions ensuring that one’s rights are fully represented.
The Importance Of Domestic Violence
New York State is a leader in protecting victims of domestic violence, and divorce courts and family courts are required to consider proven instances of domestic violence in making custody or visitation orders. This is why the existence of a current or past order of protection is considered important for custody or visitation issues. Legal education and knowledgeable representation can significantly help families understand the impact of such factors on custody decisions.
When deciding which of the parents will have physical or residential custody of the child or children, the court will usually give great weight to proven incidents of domestic violence. These considerations help the court to make decisions that are in the best interests of the child, focusing on safety, education, and overall well-being.
Affordable Representation For Manhattan Child Support Cases
Manhattan child support attorneys who won’t break the bank
Dealing with child support issues can be stressful for any parent. Finding a lawyer who’s both skilled and affordable might seem impossible, especially in Manhattan. But parents don’t have to choose between quality representation and reasonable fees. We provide expert advice and legal guidance on child support matters at rates that make quality representation accessible for more people.
What Makes Child Support Cases Complicated in Manhattan?
Child support matters in New York City follow specific guidelines and formulas established by New York State, which are pased upon income and number of children. However, several factors can make these cases more complex and require specialized legal assistance:
High cost of living in Manhattan affects reasonable support amount calculations, and child support payments may be onerous whwen they are on top of big living expenses.
- Varying income levels between parents can create disputes over the standard calculation- income above the cap is more complicated than just the formula
- Self-employed parents may have complicated income documentation that affects the support amount
- These complexities demand experienced legal representation from a child support lawyer with expertise and familiarity with Manhattan courts. Our attorneys understand these nuances and can help navigate these issues effectively while protecting your rights and the interests of your children.
Our Approach to Affordable Legal Representation
We believe everyone deserves quality legal help, regardless of their budget. Here’s how we make our services accessible:
Reasonable Hourly Rates & Retainers
We understand legal representation is an investment. We also understand how hard it is to pay legal fees on top of temporary child support payments. We offer competitive hourly rates and reasonable retainers that make quality legal assistance accessible to Manhattan families. Our transparent pricing structure ensures you know exactly what to expect with no hidden fees or unexpected charges. Before signing any agreement, we provide clear information about all costs associated with your case.
Efficient Case Management
Time is money in legal matters. We work efficiently to resolve your case without unnecessary delays or procedures. This approach not only saves time but also reduces your overall legal costs.
Affordable Initial Consultation
Understanding your legal options shouldn’t be prohibitively expensive. We offer a 30-minute initial consultation for just $150, available over phone or Zoom. During this session, an experienced family attorney will discuss your situation and outline potential legal strategies. This gives you valuable advice without a large financial commitment upfront. We have handled all types of child support cases, including initial cases, modification cases, and enforcement cases.