Category Archives: Custody
Dustin Hoffman on Father’s Rights
Kramer vs. Kramer was far ahead of its time. In the 1979 film, Dustin Hoffman’s character, Ted, made a case for custody of his son, asking: “What law is it that says a woman is a better parent simply by virtue of her sex? What is it that makes somebody a good parent? …it has… Read More »
Mistakes to Avoid in a New York Divorce
So you’ve decided to get a divorce and think you know what to do. But time and time again, people make the same mistakes and suffer because of them. Keeping in mind some of the following tips throughout your divorce can benefit you both emotionally and financially. Here are some of the most common mistakes… Read More »
Understanding Child Custody Law in NY
If you are a parent wishing to file for child custody in the state of New York, you should familiarize yourself with the state’s child custody laws first. In a child custody case, the court’s job is to decide what is in the best interest of the child. Although there is no clear-cut way to… Read More »
Protecting Your Children in a Divorce
A divorce can be a traumatic experience for everyone involved, but especially for kids. If you have children and are in the process of going through a divorce, you should consider the following tips. Listed below are some tips to help you protect your kids from your divorce and ensure your children’s well-being during divorce:… Read More »
Can You Share?
Points to consider about joint physical custody We talked earlier about joint physical custody. As I indicated, joint physical custody is a good opportunity for both parents to stay actively involved with their children. More than ever, courts are guided by the best interests of the child when parents decide to divorce, and the best… Read More »
Unfairly Accused of Child Abuse: Understanding the ACS and CPS Investigation
Getting a phone call from an agent of Child Protective Services (CPS) or Administration for Children’s Services is frightening. An indictment can result in the loss of your child or the implementation of a service plan that interferes with your relationship. Even unfounded cases can have traumatic effects on your record and your closeness with… Read More »
Enforcing Child Support of Out-of-State Parents
When your children’s other parent lives outside of New York, determining which state has jurisdiction to rule on the establishment, collection and enforcement of child support payments can complicate the process of getting the money you are owed. The Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA) addresses this issue so you know which order to follow… Read More »
Sharing Joint Custody
When you were married, you and your spouse likely shared in many childrearing decisions. Divorce complicates this parental arrangement. Parents are unlikely to discuss their children’s faltering grades or brilliant oboe performances over a leisurely family dinner or a Sunday drive to the hardware store. In fact, ex-spouses may prefer as little contact as possible…. Read More »
When the Other Parent Uses Your Child as a Weapon
Even in the best of circumstances, divorce is usually hard on children. But a manipulative parent can force children to choose sides through hostile aggressive parenting (HAP). HAP can lead to what is known as parental alienation syndrome (PAS) — a situation in which one parent turns a child against the other parent. Actions that… Read More »
Preparing for a Child Custody Evaluation
You and your spouse have argued incessantly over who should get custody of your children. You’ve tried negotiations and mediations and cannot reach an agreement. You have now asked a judge to decide. In New York, the court is instructed to decide on a custody and visitation arrangement that is in the child’s best interest…. Read More »