TRUSTED FAMILY & COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE LAWYER FOR VISITATION AGREEMENTS & MEDIATED SETTLEMENTS IN WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NY
Establishing how much time each parent will spend with their children after a divorce is one of the most important decisions divorcing spouses have to make.
If the parents cannot reach an agreement, the court makes the decision. Lauren B. Abramson, Esq. believes that parents know their children, relationships and schedules better than anyone else. Our family lawyers guide clients through the negotiation process to help them develop visitation agreements that best fit their family’s situation. We can also assist with mediated settlements and other collaborative divorce proceedings.
WHEN SHOULD WE CONSULT A FAMILY LAWYER FOR A VISITATION AGREEMENT?
Agreements about child visitation (also known as parenting time or parental access) should be reduced to writing as soon as either parent decides to leave the home and before parents who have agreed to live separately and apart actually separate. Even in uncontested and no-fault cases, the divorce process takes time, so you should develop a temporary visitation agreement to reduce uncertainty and conflict during the divorce. Get in touch with our experienced child custody lawyers for assistance with drawing up these documents.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR FIRST MEETING WITH OUR CHILD CUSTODY LAWYER
Preparing for your first meeting with a child custody lawyer is an important step in protecting your rights and your children's best interests. Understanding what to expect can help you make the most of this initial consultation and set the foundation for a successful attorney-client relationship.
What to Bring to Your First Meeting:
Documentation of Your Current Custody Arrangement: Bring any existing custody orders, visitation schedules, or informal agreements you've made with the other parent.
Calendar of Your Schedule: Provide details about your work schedule, availability, and the time you currently spend with your children to help us understand your situation.
Records of Communication: Gather emails, text messages, or other correspondence with the other parent regarding custody matters, particularly any disputes or agreements.
List of Questions and Concerns: Write down specific questions about custody laws, your rights, and any concerns you have about your children's welfare or the other parent's involvement.
Financial Information: Bring documentation of your income, expenses, and any child support arrangements, as these factors may be relevant to custody decisions.
Information About Your Children: Prepare details about your children's schools, medical needs, extracurricular activities, and daily routines to provide a complete picture of their lives.
What Your Lawyer Will Discuss:
Your Goals & Priorities: We will ask about your desired custody arrangement and what matters most to you regarding your children's care and upbringing.
Legal Options Available: Our child custody lawyer can explain different types of arrangements, including joint custody, sole custody, and a variety of visitation schedules that may work for your family.
The Legal Process: Expect a discussion about timelines, court procedures, and what steps will be involved in establishing or modifying custody arrangements.
Best Interests of the Child: Your attorney will explain how New York courts determine custody based on factors such as the child's relationship with each parent, stability, and the child's preferences (depending on age).
Alternative Dispute Resolution: We may discuss options like mediation or collaborative law that can help you reach an agreement without going to court.
Your first meeting with our child custody lawyer is an opportunity to gather information, assess whether the attorney is the right fit for your needs, and begin building a strategy for your custody case. Come prepared with documentation and questions to make the most of this consultation.
WHAT SHOULD A VISITATION AGREEMENT INCLUDE?
- Holidays
- Summer break
- Weekends
- Midweek visits
- Geographical restrictions
- Restrictions on who can be present during visits
- Right of consultation on medical and childcare needs
CAN WE USE A DIVORCE MEDIATION ATTORNEY TO HELP US REACH AN AGREEMENT?
Lauren B. Abramson, Esq. understands the challenges you and your children face. Our divorce mediation attorney serves individuals and families throughout Westchester and Putnam counties, including White Plains, Harrison, New Rochelle, Bedford, Armonk, Bronxville, Larchmont, Mamaroneck, Somers, Croton-on-Hudson, Peekskill, Rye, and Carmel. Our office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. We also accommodate evening and weekend appointments when needed. Parking is free. Call our family lawyer at (914) 908-5877 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
CONTACT OUR CHILD CUSTODY LAWYER FOR HELP WITH A VISITATION AGREEMENT
Lauren B. Abramson, Esq. provides guidance as a professional child custody lawyer, uncontested divorce attorney, and family lawyer to divorcing parents in and around Westchester County. Our office is across from Saxon Woods Park, between the Hutchinson River Parkway and the New England Thruway. We’re open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and we offer weekend and evening meetings by appointment to assist with mediated divorce settlements, property division, prenuptial agreements, child custody matters, and more. If you are embarking on a collaborative divorce, call us today at (914) 908-5877 or contact us online.