Child Custody – Powers Law, P.C.

Child Custody Representation You Can Trust

Going through a divorce or significant life change is difficult enough without worrying about your children’s future. You want what is best for them and to be there for them as they grow. With over 50+ years of combined experience, our New York attorneys provide valuable support and guidance for families in child custody cases.

We understand the importance of family and provide compassionate and personalized representation for you and your family. Our attorneys are here to support you and fight for the best interests of you and your children. With decades of experience assisting clients in Suffolk and Nassau counties, you can trust us to be a strong legal advocate.

What Are The Options For Child Custody In New York?

In New York, there are different child custody arrangements that allow for the sole custody or joint custody of the children. New York also provides for Parenting Time when one parent is granted sole custody.

Physical or residential custody determines where the child lives and spends most of their time. The child can live with one parent in a sole custody arrangement, or the court can grant Shared custody, where the child splits their time between the parents. However, joint custody does not mean the child will spend equal time with each parent.

Legal custody refers to the parent’s decision-making power on the child’s behalf. Parents with legal custody decide on the child’s medical, educational, religious and extracurricular activities, and other major issues.

Which Factors Do Courts Consider When Determining A Custody Agreement?

When deciding on child custody, New York courts always place the child’s best interests at the forefront of any judgment. In considering the child’s best interests, the court considers many factors that speak to the parent’s ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment for their child.

New York courts take numerous factors into consideration when making a custody decision, including:

Each parent’s work schedules
Domestic violence history
Mental health and well-being of each parent
If each parent is able to take care of the child and meet their needs
Which parent will best foster the relationship between the child and the other parent
In some cases, the child’s wishes

In many circumstances, the courts will take the parent’s and the child’s wishes into consideration.

Can A Child Decide Who They Want To Live With In New York?

The court often considers the child’s preferences when deciding physical custody. There is no minimum age, but the court will take an older child’s wishes more seriously. However, the court will still put the child’s best interests first, even if it does not align with the child’s wishes.

When Can A Custody Agreement Be Modified?

As life circumstances change, a previously decided custody arrangement may not work for the parents or the child. When a significant material change occurs, either parent can file for a custody modification at any time. When applying for a modification, the parent must show that a substantial change in circumstances occurred and that the modification is in the child’s best interests.

We Can Help You Protect Your Child’s Future

When it comes to fighting for your child, you need an experienced legal advocate to stand by you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you and your family. Call us at 631-242-2020 or complete our online contact form to get in touch.