Child Custody

Long Island Child Custody Lawyer

Experienced Child Custody Attorney Serving Long Island, NY

Are you going through a complicated child custody matter that calls for the legal guidance of a child custody lawyer in Nassau County? If so, it may benefit you to contact The Virdone Law Firm, P.C. Our team recognizes how stressful it can be to address child custody in Long Island and we always strive to help our clients come up with solutions by helping them to create parenting plans that will be most beneficial for all parties involved.

How is Child Custody Determined in New York?

In New York custody cases, the Court takes every possible step to minimize negative repercussions on the life of a child. New York judges are encouraged to consider all of the details of the case before making any decision.

When deciding custody in New York, judges will look at the following:

  • The health of each of the parents
  • The child's relationships with other family members
  • Each parent's ability to care for the child
  • Each parent's co-parenting abilities
  • Any allegations of domestic violence

The court will examine the lives of the parents when making this decision, but the judgment of a family may not be a true reflection of their situation. 

In order to truly decide a custody agreement that is in the child's best interests, parents should consider drafting their own custody arrangement for the court to approve. This will give them control over their agreement and the ability to create plan that works for every member of the family.


Contact us online or call our Long Island child custody lawyers today at (516) 858-2648 to get started on your custody case. Let us help protect your child's future!


What Age Can a Child Decide Which Parent to Live with in New York?

In New York, if a child is under the age of 18, the judge will ultimately make the decision on which parent has physical custody. The child will live with the parent with physical custody. The judge might consider the child’s preference when making the decision. The more mature the child is, the more weight the judge might give to the child’s preference. However, in the end, the child does not make the final decision, and the judge will make a judgment based on what is in the best interests of the child.

When children are involved, divorce and family law proceedings of any kind can become especially complicated. This is why it is crucial to make sure the legal team you work with is one that genuinely cares about helping you reach a favorable resolution.

How a Family Law Lawyer Can Help You Achieve Custody in Long Island

We recognize that you are going through a tough time in your life and we are here to make sure you are treated with compassion, respect, and honesty. Our team believes in coming up with personalized solutions that are tailored to fit every client's unique circumstances. Should you retain our services, we will get to know you and your situation and then help you determine the most beneficial course of action.

Is NY a 50/50 Custody State?

No, child custody laws in NY do not require a 50/50 custody split. However, should it be up to the court to determine custody, the court will weigh many factors in determining custody arrangements. 

Legal custody refers to the power to make important life decisions about a child and how to raise the child. 

It is typical for legal custody to be evenly separated between the parents so that both have an equal voice in the child’s upbringing.

Our team has decades of combined experience, enabling us to take on even the most complicated child custody cases, reasons to choose our firm include:

  • Free case consultations
  • Limited case load
  • Track record of success
  • Compassionate legal team
  • Personalized legal solutions
  • Cost-effective representation
  • Effective & practical support

The well-being of your children is at stake — do not settle for working with a custody attorney that will not put their all into bettering your situation. We want you and your family to get through this process in a manner that is as stress-free and cost-effective possible. Regardless of the complexity of your situation, we have the knowledge and experience necessary to come up with an effective solution!

Who Can File for Child Custody in New York?

In New York, various individuals can file for child custody based on their relationship with the child and the circumstances surrounding the case. Typically, the following parties can seek child custody:

  • Parents: Biological or adoptive parents can file for child custody in New York. If the parents are separated, divorced, or unmarried, they can petition for custody as part of the legal process.
  • Legal Guardians: A legal guardian, appointed by the court or designated in a will, may file for child custody if they have legal authority over the child's well-being.
  • Relatives or Third Parties: Relatives such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, or close family friends may file for custody under certain circumstances. This could happen if the child's parents are unfit, deceased, or incapable of providing proper care and custody.
  • Step-Parents: In some cases, step-parents may seek custody, especially if they have been the child's primary caregiver or have a strong bond with the child.
  • Siblings: Older siblings, if deemed suitable by the court and with valid reasons, may file for child custody to provide a stable and caring environment for their younger siblings.

When filing for child custody, it's essential to demonstrate to the court that granting custody to the petitioner is in the child's best interests. Consulting with a child custody attorney in Long Island at The Virdone Law Firm, P.C. is highly recommended to understand the legal process, requirements, and best strategies to achieve a favorable outcome in child custody cases.


Our law firm offers free initial consultations. To speak to our Long Island child custody attorneys, give us a call at (516) 858-2648 or contact us online today.


 

Our Testimonials

  • "When I consulted with John Virdone, I was touched by his considerate attitude and knowledge of what I was dealing with in my ex-husband's belated challenge to my divorce decree. Mr Virdone was honest in his concerns about my case and encouraging of my maki"
    Former Client
  • "Kira Schettino, this is just a note of appreciation for the long and tiring battle, we did win!! Many thanks for all your hard work. I wish you lots of success for all future cases."
    R.K.
  • "John Virdone is simply an outstanding litigator. He represented me in the Queens County Family Court in a highly contested grandparent custody/visitation matter that was on going for more than two years. My case was exceptionally difficult. Many attorneys "
    Rachel
  • "I'm a returning client of Mr. Virdone, my new case is support modification. I just injured my foot which require surgery and a 3-4 month recovery time. My ex an I do not talk at all. Communicating with the court is impossible (phone just rings) to inform t"
    Marcell
  • "John is very knowledgeable. He clearly explained my options and provided guidance and with his expects assistance I was able to get an excellent Grandparent visitation settlement within three court visits, I highly recommend him."
    L.C.