Seeking to Establish a Guardian in Long Island
Nassau County Family Law Attorney
There are different situations in which a grandparent or other relative of a child may seek guardianship. Child abuse, neglect and abandonment are primary reasons, as are drug abuse, alcohol abuse and mental illness. Becoming the guardian of a child is an important decision that will establish particular rights and responsibilities in regard to the child's care and well-being. It is therefore important to discuss the particular issues involved with this matter with an experienced divorce and family law attorney.
By contacting our law offices, you can find out more about what you can do to become a legal guardian of a child in need of your help. Our firm handles guardianship cases in Nassau, Suffolk and Queens and offers a free initial consultation to discuss your unique situation.
Becoming a Legal Guardian in Queens, Suffolk or Nassau County
Any adult who is capable of properly caring for a child may ask to be a guardian. A criminal record will typically limit or eliminate one's ability to become a legal guardian, but this will vary on a case by case basis. To become a guardian, you will need to prove that "extraordinary circumstances" exist that would warrant your assignment in caring for the child. For example, if the parent has left the child in your care for extended periods of time, is abusive or neglectful or has a drug problem, you may be able to seek guardianship. The determination of whether you will be granted guardianship will depend on what the court determines is in the best interests of the child. Though you may become a temporary guardian of a child in cases involving abandonment, abuse or neglect, you can only become a permanent guardian if its in the best interest of the child. As a permanent guardian, you would be able to seek the adoption of the child as well.
If you are a grandparent, relative or other person close to a child and are interested in seeking temporary or permanent guardianship, it is important to discuss your options with an attorney experienced in handling these matters. Our firm handles cases of this kind in Queens County, Nassau County and Suffolk County as well as in the surrounding areas. We are happy to discuss your concerns and rights with you to determine the best approach.
Our Testimonials
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"John Virdone is simply put - a great litigator. My reason for saying this is that he is always exceedingly well prepared when he steps into a courtroom to advocate on your behalf. He knows "THE LAW" and he uses it to his client's best interest. My custody "Derek Tolbert
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"John Virdone has represented me for more than eight years, primarily in the areas of family law, landlord and tenant matters, and real estate practice. Without reservation, I can state that his legal acumen, litigation skills, and negotiating techniques ar"J.C.
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"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
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"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
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"John Virdone is an exceptional lawyer for grandparent's rights. He represented us in our grandparent custody case. Thanks to his expertise at our trial, we the grandparents won. He explained every step of the way and answered all of our questions. He is th"Linda D. and Vinnie D.