Child Custody

Summer often brings changes to parenting schedules, vacation and childcare agreements. For co-parents in New York, proper planning can help reduce misunderstandings and avoid custody disputes during school break. Can you take your child out of New York? While a child...

Your teenager announces they want to live with your ex, and suddenly it can feel like the decision is out of your hands. In New York, though, a child does not simply get to pick which parent to live with, which for many worried parents is a quiet relief. Here is how...

When custody becomes part of a New York divorce, the terms can become confusing. Legal custody and physical custody address different parts of your child’s life. Understanding the difference can help you focus on major decisions, daily routines and parenting time....

Divorce can significantly impact the family dynamics, particularly when children are involved. When deciding child custody, courts prioritize the child’s best interests, but the challenges do not end with the decision. Parents need to manage financial responsibilities...

If you have primary physical custody and want to move out of state, you may assume you can make that decision unilaterally. In New York, that is not always true. Even as the primary custodial parent, you may need the other parent’s consent or court approval to...

When a parent’s health declines, daily responsibilities can change quickly and often without warning. Medical conditions may affect work schedules, income levels, and the ability to care for a child consistently. In New York, courts may change custody, parenting time,...

The schools that children attend can have a direct impact on their future success. Some schools are more academically rigorous and have more funding than others. Additionally, the relationships that teenagers make during high school, in particular, can lead to...

A shift in your child’s activities can disrupt the structure you rely on. When sports, clubs, or lessons increase, your current parenting plan may feel outdated. New York courts understand these changes and allow updates when your child’s schedule grows. How...

Child custody decisions are one of the most difficult parts of a divorce. In New York, courts focus on what serves the best interests of the child. They look at many parts of a family’s life, not just which parent wants custody. Understanding these factors can help...

When a child refuses visitation, it can put stress on both parents. In New York, custody and visitation orders are legally binding, but courts also recognize that children’s needs and preferences may change over time. You may wonder whether a child’s refusal is enough...