My name is Paul W. Matthews. I am a Family Law Attorney based in Staten Island. Nick Pederson, a friend and colleague, also practices in Staten Island and takes cases in all New York Counties.
Nick is not my partner and we do not work on cases together, but I do regularly refer him cases, as at the moment I am taking mostly Family Court appeals. He not only travels to all the New York City Counties but he also has extensive experience in Matrimonial and Divorce cases, offering solutions that align with each client’s goals.
Our shared office advice is critical for achieving the best results possible, paying necessary attention to the unique factors of each case. We provide phone assistance for clients who may need guidance in various areas of their legal journey.
In some instances, mediation can be a valuable tool in reaching an amicable resolution and minimizing conflict; thereby avoiding the involvement of a child support attorney when disputes about child support amounts arise.
Additionally, we ensure all relevant paperwork is meticulously handled, leveraging every available resource to provide our clients with the most comprehensive legal support.
Between the two of us, we pretty much handle family law cases in all the New York City boros with confidence. Our ability to offer assistance extends beyond the courtroom as we are always a phone call away for urgent inquiries. We are dedicated to ensuring that the necessary paperwork and resources are utilized to support our clients effectively.
Affordable & Experienced Staten Island Custody Lawyers & Staten Island Child Support Lawyers
When your family’s future is on the line, you need a lawyer who is not only experienced and effective but also affordable. If you’re searching for dedicated and experienced Staten Island child support lawyers or a compassionate and experienced Staten Island custody lawyer, you have come to the right website.
Between the two of us, we provide robust legal representation for all Family Law and Matrimonial Law matters in Richmond County, ensuring your rights and your children’s best interests are protected every step of the way. Our ability to navigate through different areas of family law ensures comprehensive coverage for all your legal needs.
We both understand the stress and uncertainty that come with family legal battles. We are here to guide you through the complexities of the Family Court system with clear communication, confidence-building advice, and a strategy tailored to your unique situation.
Our approach may begin with negotiations or mediation, but we are always prepared for litigation, focusing on achieving the best possible resolution for you and your client-attorney relationship, offering phone assistance when required. Furthermore, we prioritize staying organized with your legal paperwork, using available resources to enhance our service quality.
Your Trusted & Experienced Partners in Staten Island Family Law
I have been practicing in the Family Court for over 25 years in Manhattan, Staten Island, and Brooklyn, helping families navigate their most challenging times. As of today, I have tried close to 1000 cases in the Family Court of which at least 500 were Custody, visitation, or child support cases. Whether determining the appropriate child support amount or addressing visitation disputes, experience matters across all areas of legal practice.
Nick has been working with Staten Island clients for over 10 years in both Family Court matters and contested Matrimonial cases. We believe that every resident of Richmond County deserves access to high-quality legal representation without the prohibitive cost often associated with New York City law firms.
Our ability to provide assistance through phone consultations ensures that distance is never a barrier to quality counsel. By effectively utilizing resources and managing essential paperwork, we strive to make the legal journey as smooth as possible for our clients.
Our approach is simple: we listen. We take the time to understand your goals, your fears, and your family’s dynamics. This allows us to build a strong case, whether it involves securing a fair Child Custody arrangement, enforcing a Child Support order, or navigating the division of marital property.
Our goal is to empower you with knowledge and skilled advocacy. While Nick travels to all of the boros, I only do cases in Staten Island Family Court, Manhattan Family Court, and Brooklyn Family Court, yet our collective expertise covers all these areas effectively.
At our law office, nothing is more important than your children. Child Custody cases are often the most emotionally charged part of any family dispute. Our role as your custody lawyer is to bring clarity and strength to your case, focusing on the legal standard that guides every decision made by the Family Court: the “Best Interests of the Child.” A child support attorney can assist when attention to child support amounts becomes a focal issue in such disputes, ensuring that child support payments are fairly addressed. In addition, we provide evidence to support our claims and strengthen your case.
In New York, custody is divided into two parts: We help clients pursue arrangements that work for their families, from sole custody to joint custody. As part of our detailed plan, we ensure that the legal process considers each family’s unique circumstances and any changes that may come with age.
We are also fierce advocates for fair Visitation and Parenting Time schedules, recognizing the importance of maintaining a strong parent-child bond. In the context of our law office’s practice, it’s essential to address each side of the issue thoroughly, understanding the perspectives of both parents and sometimes the spouse involved, to reach a resolution that benefits everyone.
Understanding Custody and Visitation
Our firm is equipped to handle complex custody situations and strives to achieve an amicable settlement, including the challenging dynamics that can involve a spouse or third party influencing the proceedings. In particular, addressing child support payments accurately ensures that the child’s needs are prioritized.
- Legal Custody: This refers to the right to make major decisions about your child’s life, including their education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.
- Physical Custody: This determines where the child lives primarily.
Financial stability is crucial after a separation or Divorce. Child Support is designed to ensure that children continue to receive the financial support they need from both parents. As your child support lawyer, we develop a strategic plan to work tirelessly in ensuring that support orders are fair, accurate, and enforceable, reaching an equitable settlement whenever possible.
We take into account any issues that may arise from either side, providing comprehensive support and representation, particularly regarding child support payments which are integral to maintaining the child’s lifestyle.
Complex Custody Issues
In New York, child support is calculated using a formula established by the Child Support Standards Act (CSSA). This formula is based on a percentage of the parents’ combined income and the number of children.
While it seems straightforward, complications often arise when determining a parent’s true income, especially with self-employed individuals or those with hidden assets. Alongside these financial elements, it’s also crucial to consider how a spouse might affect financial disclosures and obligations, which is thoroughly managed within our law office.
- Relocation: We represent parents who wish to move with their child, as well as parents who are opposing a relocation.
- Grandparents’ Rights: We can advise on the specific circumstances under which grandparents may seek custody or visitation rights.
- Guardianship: We handle cases involving the legal guardianship of a minor.
- Interstate Custody: We have experience with the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA), which governs custody disputes when parents live in different states, such as New York and New Jersey.
Securing Fair Child Support in Staten Island
We meticulously review financial documents to ensure calculations are based on accurate information. As part of our comprehensive plan, we handle all aspects of support, including contributions to healthcare, childcare, and educational expenses, assuring that child support payments are structured to meet all necessary requirements effectively.Life changes, and financial circumstances can shift.
We assist clients with the Modification of Orders when a significant change in income or circumstances occurs. Such modifications may also require the approval of the courts as a matter of due process to ensure fairness and legality.
Furthermore, if a parent is failing to meet their obligations, we can take swift legal action for the Enforcement of Orders to ensure your child receives the support they are legally entitled to. Understanding both sides of the issue allows us to offer tailored advice and guidance through these challenges.
The Child Support Standards Act (CSSA)
While we have a special focus on custody and support, our expertise covers the full spectrum of family law. We provide guidance and representation in a variety of related matters with compassion and an understanding of the responsibilities that family issues entail, backed by substantial evidence to support your position.
Legal matters like these are often resolved in family courts where an experienced attorney can advocate for your interests effectively. Our family law attorneys are dedicated to helping all parties involved, including a spouse, explore their options and form a realistic plan to achieve the best possible outcome through mediation or settlement.
Whether you’re a mother seeking assistance for child custody or needing to resolve financial issues like the allocation of money post-divorce, our team is prepared to provide comprehensive support. Consulting with a family lawyer can be an essential step in resolving such delicate matters.
staten island family court
Modification and Enforcement
Navigating the court system is a key part of any family law case, as these matters are often settled or disputed in courts. Understanding the logistics of the Richmond County Family Court can help reduce stress and prepare you for your appearances.
Family law attorneys play a crucial role in guiding you through these processes with compassion and a focus on the responsibilities of the parties involved, including dealing with any side issues that may arise during court proceedings. Financial concerns, such as the need for money to cover legal expenses, are often discussed openly to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Comprehensive Family & Matrimonial Law Services
It’s important for any client to know that the Family Court moved about a year ago. It is no longer at its historic 100 Richmond Terrace location. The new Richmond County Family Court is now located at 18 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10301.
- Divorce: We handle all aspects of Contested Divorce, guiding you through the process of Equitable Distribution, where marital assets and debts are divided fairly.
- Spousal Support (Alimony/Maintenance): We advocate for clients seeking or challenging awards of Spousal Support, also known as Spousal Maintenance.
- Paternity: We represent mothers and fathers in establishing legal Paternity, which is essential for securing rights to custody, visitation, and child support.
- Separation Agreements: For couples who wish to separate but not divorce, we can draft a comprehensive Separation Agreement that resolves all relevant issues.
- Orders of Protection & Domestic Violence: Your safety is paramount. We act quickly to help victims of Domestic Violence obtain an Order of Protection and navigate the legal system to ensure their security.
A Guide to the Richmond County Family Court
This modern facility is now shared with the Richmond County Supreme Court, consolidating many legal services into one central hub to address various legal matters efficiently. This strategic plan was designed to improve efficiency and access to justice. Inside, it is a beautiful building with classic architecture.
However, because Staten Island is the smallest county of NYC by population, there are no private interview rooms where clients, including mothers dealing with custody battles, can meet with their attorneys to discuss sensitive family law matters. Consulting with a family lawyer here requires considering both the constraints and opportunities offered by this updated courthouse.
The courthouse’s location in St. George offers excellent access to public transportation. It is just a short walk from the St. George Ferry Terminal and the Staten Island Railroad (SIR) terminal, making it convenient for residents across the borough and even those coming from Manhattan.
However, parking is extremely limited and can be a significant challenge. There is very little street parking available, and nearby parking lots fill up quickly and can be expensive. As a matter of practicality, it’s often advisable to plan your visit with these transportation options in mind.
We strongly advise clients, perhaps including a mother juggling family responsibilities, to use public transportation or a ride-sharing service if possible, or to leave ample extra time to find parking before a scheduled court appearance.
This becomes even more crucial for those involved in cases such as child support orders, where missing a court date could affect the child support obligation and potentially influence outcomes. Our practice areas, which encompass these sensitive legal matters, are designed to address such challenges effectively.
The New Location: 18 Richmond Terrace
The former Family Court at 100 Richmond Terrace was a landmark, serving the community for decades. While the move to 18 Richmond Terrace marks a new chapter, the court’s fundamental mission, including adjudicating child support orders, remains the same: to provide a venue for resolving sensitive family matters, such as paternity disputes, with the responsibilities and compassion that both parties deserve.
The history of the court is one of evolution, adapting to the changing needs of Staten Island families. Within these practice areas, an experienced attorney understands not just the law, but the local procedures and personnel of the court, ensuring the most effective outcomes for cases such as child support obligation adjustments. A family lawyer’s role is pivotal in navigating these complex environments.
We are committed to being affordable. We discuss our legal fees transparently during your initial consultation. The total cost will vary depending on the complexity of your case, but we work to provide value and keep your expenses manageable through efficient negotiation and, when necessary, targeted litigation.
Money concerns should not deter anyone from seeking justice and fair representation, particularly in sensitive family law cases. Our practice areas are built around ensuring that the outcomes of court processes remain fair and just, especially with regard to child support obligation disputes. The result of these proceedings can significantly impact the financial well-being of children and families involved, necessitating careful documentation and understanding of legal requirements.
Support is calculated using the Child Support Standards Act (CSSA) formula, which applies a percentage to the parents’ combined income (up to a certain cap).
The percentage is 17% for one child, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, and no less than 35% for five or more children.
Child support orders provide a necessary framework for meeting the financial needs of children and ensuring their well-being, while also emphasizing the child support obligation of each parent. Documenting income accurately is an essential practice area to ensure a just result.
Getting to Court: Transportation and Parking
Physical custody refers to which parent the child lives with most of the time. Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about the child’s life (e.g., school, medical care). It’s common for parents to share joint legal custody even if one parent has primary physical custody. These arrangements can influence the outcomes of court decisions, including those concerning child support orders and obligations. Any modifications to such arrangements must be thoroughly documented to support changes in legal standings within our designated practice areas.
Sometimes, as they say, it’s complicated. Orders can be changed through a Modification of Orders. This complexity is a standard part of our practice areas, where each case requires a tailored approach to address unique family dynamics and legal challenges effectively.
FAQ: Your Family Law Questions Answered
How much do your services cost?
While you can represent yourself, it is highly discouraged.Family Law is complex, and the stakes are incredibly high. An experienced Family Law attorney understands the nuances of the law, the court procedures in Richmond County, and how to effectively present your case to protect your rights and your family’s future. Proper legal guidance is essential, particularly when outcomes potentially alter child support orders and obligations, necessitating meticulous documentation of modification requests and outcomes.
How is child support calculated in New York?
If you are facing a family law challenge in Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, or elsewhere in New York City, contact our law firm today for a confidential preliminary consultation. Call (347) 461-0760
What’s the difference between legal and physical custody?
Staten Island is a growing community. Its population continues to see a steady increase, and with it, the complexities of family matters such as child support obligations also rise, demanding nuanced legal solutions to secure favorable outcomes for its residents. Monitoring the results of such trends helps in advising appropriate modifications in the approach to family law proceedings.
Can I change my child support or custody order?
Sometimes, as they say, it’s complicated. Orders can be changed through a Modification Peittion . To be successful, you must usually prove that there has been a “substantial change in circumstances” since the last order was made. This could be a job loss, a significant increase in income, or a change in the child’s needs. Such changes affect not only personal lives but also the legal parameters of child support obligations and determinate outcomes needing reassessment. Comprehensive documentation of these life modifications can be critical to achieving a favorable result.
Do I really need a lawyer for Family Court?
You have a right to represent yourself, but it isstrongly discouraged. I have seen lawyers who do not practice regularly in Family Court be “creamed”. If you choose togo pro se you will be expected to have the same legal knowledge as an attorney and the judge is unlikely to help you or cut you slack.
Some Statistics About Staten Island
Staten Island stands out among New York City’s boroughs for its high rate of homeownership and robust household income levels.
Staten Island stands out among New York City’s boroughs for its high rate of homeownership and robust household income levels. This economic stability influences child support obligations, allowing for equitable agreements that reflect the community’s standard of living, a factor well-documented in adjustments to legal statutes.
- As of the 2020 Census, the population of Staten Island was 495,747.
- This represents a 5.6% increase from the 2000 census.
Staten Island Household Income & Homeownership
.
- The homeownership rate in Staten Island is 69.5%, significantly higher than the rate in any other borough.
- The median household income is $98,290.
- The average (mean) household income is $125,764.
***Source:*** U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2022 1-Year Estimates
.