I am an affordable family law attorneywith over 25 years of experience. My griend and colleague, Nick Pdersen, is an experienced family law and divorce attorney with over 10 years experience. Nick is not my parter nor does he work for me but I do refer cases to him when I ameither too busy or if the caes are outside of Staten island. WE both are dedicaed to providing high quality representation at affordable prices.
Your Trusted Staten Island Family Lawyer for Child Custody & Support
Navigating a family law matter is one of life’s most challenging experiences. If you’re in Staten Island and facing a dispute over child custody or child support, you need clear guidance and strong, affordable legal representation. Our firm is dedicated to helping Staten Island parents find fair, sustainable solutions that protect their children and their financial future.
We provide compassionate, straightforward legal help focused on your specific needs. You don’t have to face the Richmond County Family Court system alone. For a clear assessment of your case, call us today at [Your Phone Number].
Child custody is about much more than just where your child sleeps. It involves the right to make crucial decisions about their upbringing, from education and healthcare to religious instruction. In Staten Island, the courts are focused on one primary goal: creating a custody arrangement that is in the best interest of the child.
Our job is to present your case in a way that shows how your goals align with your child’s best interests. We handle all aspects of custody, including creating new parenting plans, modifying existing orders, and resolving disputes.
What is Legal vs. Physical Custody?
Understanding the terms is the first step.
- Physical Custody: This refers to which parent the child lives with primarily. The parent with physical custody is often called the “custodial parent.” The other parent typically has a visitation schedule.
- Legal Custody: This is the right to make major decisions for your child. It is very common for Staten Island courts to award joint legal custody, meaning both parents must cooperate on decisions about schooling, medical care, and overall welfare.
How Staten Island Courts Decide Custody
There is no single formula. A judge in Richmond County will look at many factors to determine what is best for the child. This can include:
- The stability of each parent’s home environment.
- Each parent’s ability to provide for the child’s emotional and financial needs.
- The child’s relationship with each parent and any siblings.
- Any history of domestic violence, substance abuse, or neglect.
- The child’s own preference, if they are mature enough to express one.
Understanding Child Support Laws in Richmond County
Child support is a legal obligation for parents to provide financially for their children. In New York State, the law ensures that children receive support from both parents, even after a separation or divorce. It’s a right that belongs to the child.
Whether you expect to pay or receive child support, having an experienced attorney ensures the calculations are fair and accurate.
How is Child Support Calculated?
New York uses a standardized formula called the Child Support Standards Act (CSSA). The process generally involves three steps:
- Determine Combined Parental Income: Both parents’ gross incomes are calculated and combined, with some deductions allowed.
- Apply the Percentage: A set percentage is applied to the combined income based on the number of children:
- One child: 17%
- Two children: 25%
- Three children: 29%
- Four children: 31%
- Five or more children: No less than 35%
- Prorate the Obligation: The total support amount is then divided between the parents in proportion to their respective incomes.
While it sounds like simple math, complications often arise over defining “income” or dealing with expenses like health insurance and childcare. For cases where the combined adjusted gross income is over the so – called Cassano Cap, (approximately $183K a year) cases become much more complicated, as do cases involving parties who are elf employed, are college tuition, and cases involving substantial amouunts of overtime.
Can Child Support Be Modified?
Yes. A child support order in Staten Island can be modified, but you must prove a “substantial change in circumstances.” This could include a significant increase or decrease in either parent’s income, a change in the child’s needs, or a change in the custody arrangement.
Your Guide to the Staten Island Family Court (Richmond County)
For most residents, a custody or support case will be heard at the Richmond County Family Court. Knowing the correct location and what to expect can greatly reduce your anxiety.
Location and Contact Information
- Address: 18 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10301
- Phone Number: (718) 675-8100
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (doors open at 8:30 AM).
The Family Court is now located within the Richmond County Supreme Court building, a prominent landmark near the St. George Ferry Terminal.
Parking and Transportation
Parking can be a challenge. There is limited metered street parking on Richmond Terrace and the surrounding streets. Several paid parking lots are located near the ferry terminal, typically a 5-10 minute walk from the courthouse. Public transportation, including the Staten Island Railway (SIR) to St. George and numerous bus lines, is often the easiest option.
A Brief History of the Courthouse Building
The building at 18 Richmond Terrace is one of Staten Island’s most significant architectural landmarks. Opened in 1919, the Richmond County Supreme Court building was designed in the Neoclassical style to project a sense of dignity and order. Its grand facade features imposing columns and intricate stonework, making it a cornerstone of the St. George civic center. By housing multiple courts, including the Family Court, this historic building continues its century-long tradition as the central hub for justice in the borough.
What to Expect When You Visit
- Security: You will pass through a metal detector upon entry. Do not bring any weapons or items that could be perceived as such.
- Dress Code: Dress respectfully, as if you were going to a professional job interview. Business casual is appropriate. Avoid shorts, t-shirts with graphics, and flip-flops.
- Wait Times: The court is often very busy. Bring a book or something to do, as you may have to wait a significant amount of time before your case is called.
- Courtroom Etiquette: When your case is heard, be respectful to the judge, the court staff, and the other party. Turn off your cell phone completely.
Frequently Asked Questions about Staten Island Family Law
Q: Do I have to go to court for child support in Staten Island? A: Not necessarily. If you and the other parent can agree on an amount that follows the state guidelines, you can sign a voluntary agreement. However, this agreement must be approved by the court to be legally enforceable. We can help you negotiate and formalize such an agreement.
Q: My child’s other parent lives outside Staten Island. Where do we file our case? A: Generally, you file a custody or support case in the county where the child lives. If your child resides in Staten Island, the Richmond County Family Court would likely be the proper venue, even if the other parent lives in Brooklyn, New Jersey, or elsewhere.
Q: What does “affordable” family lawyer mean? A: For us, “affordable” means providing high-quality legal services with transparent and reasonable fees. We work to resolve cases efficiently to minimize your costs and avoid expensive, drawn-out litigation whenever possible. We will discuss our fee structure with you upfront.
Q: Can I represent myself in Family Court? A: You have the right to represent yourself, but it is not recommended. Family law involves complex procedures and rules of evidence. Making a mistake can have long-lasting consequences for your relationship with your child and your finances. Having an experienced attorney protects your rights.
Q: How long does a custody case take in Richmond County? A: The duration varies greatly. A simple, uncontested case might be resolved in a few months. A complex, high-conflict case that goes to trial could take a year or longer. Our goal is to move your case toward a fair resolution as efficiently as possible.
Q: What is the “best interest of the child” standard in New York? A: This is the guiding principle for all custody decisions. It means the court will prioritize the child’s safety, happiness, and overall well-being above the desires of the parents. The court examines all relevant factors to create a stable and supportive environment for the child.
Get the Legal Help You Need in Staten Island
Facing a family law issue is tough, but you can secure a positive outcome. Our firm is ready to help you understand your options and fight for your family’s future.
Contact us today at (929)-202-1352.
