Non-parent custody: Courts may consider third parties in certain situations
New York law recognizes that biological parents have a superior right to raise their children. However, in cases where there are extraordinary circumstances, a court may consider…
Take back what’s yours: Name change after divorce
Whether married for a few years or many, divorcing spouses often ask “can I change my name once I am divorced?” or “can I force my spouse to drop my last name after we are…
Orders of protection can protect spouses in contentious divorces
Divorce is never easy and often can be contentious. Divorcing couples have a lot on their minds and last thing either spouse wants to think about is the prospect of facing…
Helpful tips to prevent joint-custody issues from dampening holiday spirits
The holidays are fast approaching and with them often come the challenges of handling joint custody during one of the busiest times of the year. With hectic schedules, travel or…
Domestic violence plays large factor in outcomes of family, matrimonial cases
Domestic violence occurs across all races, ages and socio-economic statuses, and the majority of individuals involved will likely, at some point, find themselves dealing with the…
Article 81 Guardianships can provide assistance to a family member in need
When an adult loved one is disabled or becomes incapacitated, family members surely will want to ensure that his or her best interests are represented. Article 81 Guardianships,…
Grandparent’s rights to visitation: Or not?
By now many are aware that New York State allows grandparents to petition for the right to have visitation with their grandchildren (Domestic Relations Law Section 72). And to do…
Children’s passports–what are your obligations?
It is not uncommon for separated or divorced parents to share what is called joint legal custody. Joint legal custody has nothing to do with where the children live or how much…
Divorces and deductions: Understand how the new tax law could affect you
Planning to get a divorce? If so, you might want to hurry up to avoid the impact of a major federal tax change if you are the payor. As the payee, you may be better off waiting…
‘Children’s Bill of Rights in Divorce’ can help limit negative effects on kids
Experts estimate that today’s divorce rate stands between 42 percent and 45 percent, slightly lower than the peak years of the 1990s and 2000s, when one in two marriages…