Compassionate and Experienced Child Custody Lawyers Dedicated to You and Your Family
Our Binghamton, NY child custody lawyers are dedicated to ensuring the well being of you and your family. We understand the child custody process from both the legal and family perspectives and we assertively act to affirm your interests. We have represented hundreds of families in child custody matters, all with a sense of caring, concern, and a desire to do what is best for parents and children alike. We take the time to listen and work vigorously. We can do the same for you.
Types of Child Custody and Understanding Child Custody Laws in Binghamton, NY
Child custody includes physical custody relating to where the children spend the majority of their time and legal custody which involves making major life decisions such as schooling, religious affiliation, and medical treatment. Physical custody can be individual or shared. Legal custody can be sole or joint as well. If physical custody is not shared, the non-custodial spouse will be granted visitation rights under a Court-ordered visitation schedule.
In awarding child custody and visitation rights, courts in Binghamton, NY look at many factors to determine what is in the best interest of the children. The availability, qualifications, and conduct of each parent are closely scrutinized. New York’s custody laws are designed not only to look at situations in the past but also to look at the parents’ future ability to act in their children’s best interests. The Family Court makes custody and visitation decisions if the spouses cannot agree.
What Factors Determine Child Custody
Among the factors that the Family Court will consider in determining custody and visitation rights are the following:
- Age and maturity levels.
- History of drug or alcohol abuse.
- Availability to spend time with the children.
- Financial situations
- Physical, mental, and emotional health
- A safe and stable environment
- For older children, preference of the child
Child Support vs. Child Custody
Child support differs from child custody. Child support is an amount one parent pays to the other parent for the children’s upkeep and maintenance. Child support covers matters such as food, medical expenses, education, health insurance, day care, and living expenses. Child support is typically paid to the custodial parent or, in shared custody arrangements, to the parent with the lower income.
How Our Binghamton, NY Child Custody Lawyers Can Help You
Our Binghamton, NY child custody lawyers have extensive experience and understanding of how the Family Court makes child custody decisions and we will position you in the best possible light. We act aggressively to advance your interests and desires. Among our child custody lawyers is Christian Root. Christian has over 25 years’ experience representing clients in child custody matters. Assisting Christian is Richard Jennings who has close to 20 years’ experience litigating child custody and matrimonial matters. Patrick Kilker, an experienced litigator, is also engaged in our Binghamton, NY child custody practice.
Our child custody lawyers will give your case priority attention and quality representation no matter where you may be now in the course of a child custody proceeding. We successfully represent both custodial and non-custodial parents. Our offices are conveniently located across from Binghamton University. Contact us today and let our Binghamton, NY Child Custody Lawyers work for you.