Child Custody and Visitation

White Plains Child Custody and Child Visitation Lawyer

Lauren B. Abramson, Esq.

In New York, courts make decisions regarding child custody on a case-by-case basis according to what is in the “best interest” of the children. However, these court rulings are very subjective. What one Judge believes is in the best interests of the child may not be what you believe is best for your family. By leaving the decisions regarding parenting time up to a Judge, rather than sitting down with your spouse and deciding together what the appropriate custody or child visitation arrangement is, you risk an outcome that does not meet your child's needs or best interest.

There are many different ways for child custody and parenting to be arranged. It is important that both parents are involved in the child's life as much as possible. I will work with you and your spouse to develop an arrangement that meets your needs and the needs of your children. Contact my office to speak with a family law attorney with over 20 years experience. I will listen carefully to your needs and objectives and help you develop a solution that is in your family's best interests.

Achieving Resolutions That are Right for Your Family

If you are facing a divorce involving children, the best approach to resolving child custody or child visitation issues is through negotiations, mediation, or collaborative law. No one knows your family like you. By resolving parenting issues together, you can avoid the cost, time, and trauma of a courtroom dispute--both for you and your children.

However, if you cannot achieve an amicable resolution with your spouse, I will strongly advocate for you in court. I began my practice 20 years ago as a prosecutor in family court. I have the experience, knowledge, and understanding of New York family law to advocate effectively for your parenting rights in court.

Allegations of domestic abuse and child abuse can be used as a tool by one parent against another in child custody and visitation disputes. If you have been accused of some type of domestic violence or child abuse, you need to act immediately to protect yourself and ensure your parenting rights are protected.

If you are a victim of domestic violence, or believe your child is a victim of child abuse, immediate action to protect yourself and your child is imperative. Your failure to act may hurt.

Child Custody Modification

I also handle cases involving modification. In some instances, a custodial parent may ask to relocate to another state. Unless major issues exist, the courts do not typically allow parents to interfere with the visitation or parental access rights of the other parent. However, if you do not use your visitation, the other parent can argue for the modification of visitation rights and the right to relocate. As children grow older their needs change. One or more of your children may ask to change the custody or visitation arrangement. A child’s best interests still dictates custody, but an older child’s needs and desires will be considered by a court.

In addition to handling child custody and visitation, I also advocate for grandparents' rights to visitation and meaningful time with their grandchildren.

Contact me to discuss your future relationship with your children.