As a family law attorney who started his law practice in downtown Manhattan in 1996, I am here to guide you through the complex process of understanding and dealing with your child custody case. II will discuss here some basic concepts which are applicable to custody cases, which include the best interest standard, the difference between physical custody and joint legal custody, and the legal standards when a case involves a parent against a non-parent based on New York Law. However this website is only intended to provide general information about the law of New York State. Laws differ in other states, and this article does not, and cannot, provide legal advice for your specific situation.
Child custody cases can be one of the most emotionally charged and contentious areas of family law. These cases inoften involve parents who are no longer together, seeking to determine which parent will have custody of their child. Custody cases can arise from divorce or separation, but can also arise in situations where parents were never married.
If you are in need of a child custody lawyer, I offer a free initial consultation by phone or over zoom. Call me at (346) 461-0760 for your free initial consultation with an experienced child custody attorney.
Understanding Child Custody Cases
Custody can be divided into two types: physical custody and legal custody. Physical custody refers to the right of a parent to have the child live with them. Legal custody refers to the right of a parent to make important decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, such as decisions about education, healthcare, and religion. Although extremely rare, there have been court orders which grant physical custody to one parent, but legal custody to the other. More common are various forms of joint custody. Joint custody involves some arrangment where decision making is shared between the parties.
The Best Interest Standard
In any custody case, the primary consideration is the best interest of the child. This means that the court will consider all relevant factors to determine what is in the child’s best interest. Factors that courts commonly consider include the child’s needs, the parents’ ability to meet those needs, the child’s relationship with each parent, the stability of each parent’s home, and the child’s preferences (if the child is old enough to express them). The legal standard for custody cases between parents is usually the best interest standard, unless there has already been a custody order, in which case the legal standard is “substantial change of circumstances”.
Parent Against Non-Parent Cases
When a custody dispute arises between a parent and a non-parent, the court will apply a different legal standard. In these cases, the court will presume that it is in the child’s best interest to be in the custody of the parent, unless the non-parent can demonstrate that the parent is unfit or that extraordinary circumstances exist.
Working with a Manhattan Custody Lawyer
If you are involved in a child custody case, it is important to work with a Manhattan custody lawyer who can provide you with the guidance and advice you need. A child custody lawyer can help you understand your rights and obligations, and can guide you through the court process.
Although i do many consultations and conferences with clients by video, I rent space at 80 Broad Street, located in the financial district of downtown Manhattan, for in person meetings.
I am also much more affordable than most other Manhattan custody lawyers. I charge only $250 an hour for all Family Court Cases, including Family Court appeals. Although I do , like all lawyers, reqquire an initial retainer to start working on your case, my retainers are also reasonable.
At my law firm, I work closely with my clients to develop a strategy that is tailored to their unique situation. I offer compassionate and skilled representation to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
I offer a range of services to clients in Manhattan and New York City, including:
- Assistance with child custody matters, including negotiations, mediation, and litigation
- Representation in child custody disputes, including cases involving abuse, neglect, or other concerns
- Development of parenting plans and visitation schedules
- Assistance with child support matters
- Advice and guidance on issues related to family law, including divorce and separation
Contacting a Manhattan Custody Lawyer
If you are in need of a Manhattan custody lawyer, I am here to help. I offer a free initial consultation by phone or over zoom, so you can discuss your situation with me and learn more about your options.
To schedule a consultation, just give me a call. I try to answer my own phone whenever possible, and you can call outside of regular business hours and on the weekend. Call me at (347) 461-0760. I am here to help you navigate the complex world of child custody cases and achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family.
