Articles Posted in Custody and Visitation

If you’ve just received an unfavorable custody ruling, you may be feeling frustrated, shocked, or even angry. A common question parents ask is: “Can I appeal?” The short answer is yes, but appeals are not automatic do-overs. Understanding how the process works is critical before deciding your next step. In this post a Syracuse custody attorney…

Custody disputes are often emotionally charged. Unfortunately, in some cases, one parent makes false allegations against the other in an effort to gain leverage in court. These accusations may involve claims of abuse, neglect, substance abuse, or parental unfitness. If you are facing false allegations in a custody case it is critical to understand how…

Clients frequently ask whether what happens in Family Court becomes part of the public record. The short answer in New York is: generally, no, Family Court proceedings are confidential, with limited statutory exceptions. Understanding how confidentiality works in New York State Unified Court System, and specifically in New York Family Court, is critical if you…

When parents separate or divorce, one of the most important documents they’ll create is a parenting plan. This roadmap for co-parenting can make the difference between ongoing conflict and a cooperative relationship that serves your children’s best interests. Whether you’re negotiating with your co-parent or working through the court system, understanding what makes a parenting…

For many people, stepping into Family Court for the first time can feel overwhelming. Whether you are dealing with custody, child support, visitation, paternity, family offense petitions, or enforcement of prior orders, the New York State Family Court system has its own structure, procedures, and expectations. Understanding what lies ahead can reduce anxiety and help…

When parents separate and one parent takes a child across international borders without permission, the situation can become a parent’s worst nightmare. The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction provides a legal framework to address these heartbreaking situations and understanding how it works is essential for any parent involved in an…

When a marriage ends due to infidelity, emotions run high. Spouses who have been betrayed often wonder whether their partner’s affair will affect the divorce settlement or custody arrangements. While it is natural to hope that the court will hold the unfaithful spouse accountable, the legal reality in New York is more nuanced than many…

The holiday season can be one of the most challenging times for divorced or separated parents. Christmas, with its emphasis on family togetherness and tradition, often heightens emotions and can create tension between co-parents. However, with thoughtful planning and cooperation, you can create meaningful holiday experiences for your children while maintaining a positive co-parenting relationship.…

When parents separate or divorce in New York, one of the most critical legal determinations involves child custody and visitation arrangements. At the heart of every custody decision is a single, guiding principle: the “best interests of the child.” But what does this actually mean, and how do New York courts make these deeply personal…

Telling your children about an impending divorce is one of the most challenging conversations any parent will face. As a Syracuse divorce attorney, I’ve worked with countless families navigating this difficult transition. While there’s no perfect way to share this news, approaching the conversation with care, honesty, and age-appropriate communication can help your children begin…