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New York Child Custody Lawyer

Navigating child custody matters in New York can be emotionally and legally challenging for parents. The outcomes of custody disputes profoundly impact the lives of both parents and, most importantly, the children involved. Seeking the guidance and representation of an experienced New York child custody lawyer is paramount to ensuring that the best interests of the child are upheld throughout the legal process. At Stephen Bilkis & Associates we understand the emotional complexities and legal intricacies that come with child custody cases. Our dedicated team is committed to advocating for your rights as a parent and securing the optimal custody arrangement for your child.

Types of Custody Cases in New York

When it comes to child custody, there are several different types of cases and disputes that may develop that would necessitate legal intervention:

  • Child Custody: Assisting clients in understanding, negotiating, and establishing legal and physical custody arrangements that serve the best interests of the child, whether sole or joint custody. This may include the initial assessment and determination of legal and physical custody arrangements that prioritize the child's best interests, whether in the form of sole or joint custody.
  • Visitation Rights: Visitation rights entail the legal privilege of a non-custodial parent to spend time with their child. These rights, determined by court order, specify the schedule, duration, and conditions under which visits occur. It ensures the non-custodial parent maintains a meaningful relationship with the child, promoting their well-being despite not having primary physical custody. The visitation schedule strives to balance the interests of both parents while prioritizing the child's best interests and routine.
  • Custody Modification: Custody modification involves altering existing child custody arrangements due to significant changes in circumstances. These changes could be related to a parent's living situation, work schedule, health, or the child's needs evolving with age. The court reviews these modifications to ensure they align with the child's best interests, aiming to provide a stable and nurturing environment. Because there are strict rules as to reason a court would grant a custody modification, if you are seeking one, first discuss your case with an experienced New York child custody lawyer.
  • Parental Alienation: Parental alienation is the harmful act of one parent undermining the child's relationship with the other parent. Courts can address this by thoroughly evaluating the case, appointing professionals like child psychologists, and conducting interviews to assess the child's well-being. They may order counseling or therapeutic intervention to repair the parent-child relationship. In severe cases, courts can modify custody arrangements, limit the alienating parent's influence, or impose penalties for non-compliance with court orders, all aimed at protecting the child's best interests. If you have concerns related to parental alienation, it is critical that you contact an experienced child custody attorney in New York right away. In such cases, time is of the essence.
  • Parent Relocation: Parental relocation involves a parent moving a significant distance, potentially disrupting visitation and custody arrangements. Issues arise due to the potential disruption of the child's routine and access to both parents. Typically, a parent must seek court permission to relocate with the child if it's beyond a certain distance, ensuring the move aligns with the child's best interests and existing custody orders. The court may modify custody orders or adjust visitation schedules accordingly.
  • Child Support Matters: Child support refers to the financial assistance provided by one parent to the custodial parent or guardian for the upbringing of their child. It covers essential needs such as education, healthcare, and daily living expenses. Child support issues may arise when determining the appropriate amount, modifications due to financial or circumstantial changes, or enforcement of payments. Addressing child support matters ensures the child's financial needs are met and their overall well-being is adequately supported.
  • Guardianship and Custodial Rights: Guardianship and custodial rights in New York pertain to legal authority over a child's welfare and decisions. Guardians are court-appointed individuals responsible for the child's overall well-being, while custodial rights usually refer to a parent's legal and physical custody of the child. These rights are determined based on the child's best interests, evaluating factors such as the parent's capabilities, relationship with the child, and living conditions. Establishing guardianship or custodial rights involves a thorough legal process and court approval.
  • Domestic Violence and Orders of Protection: Addressing cases involving domestic violence or abuse, helping clients obtain restraining orders, and ensuring the child's safety by advocating for appropriate custody and visitation arrangements. Orders of protection in the context of child custody are legal directives aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of the child. They may be issued to prevent contact or limit interactions with a parent who poses a threat, often due to domestic violence or abuse. These orders play a crucial role in custody cases, helping to create a secure environment for the child and ensuring their best interests are safeguarded throughout the legal process.
  • Grandparent Rights: Grandparents in New York have limited rights to seek visitation or custody. The court may grant visitation if it's in the best interests of the child and one of the parents has died, or under exceptional circumstances. However, this is often a challenging legal path, requiring a strong pre-existing relationship with the grandchild and evidence of significant harm if denied visitation.
Contact Stephen Bilkis & Associates

Child custody cases are emotionally charged and legally complex, requiring the expertise and support of a seasoned child custody attorney serving New York. At Stephen Bilkis & Associates, we are committed to safeguarding your child's best interests while advocating for your parental rights. Our experienced team is well-versed in New York law related to child custody matters, providing the guidance and representation you need to navigate this challenging legal terrain. Contact us today to discuss your child custody case and take the first step toward securing the best future for your child. Contact us at 800.696.9529 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation regarding your case. We represent clients in the following locations: Nassau County, Queens, Bronx, Brooklyn, Long Island, Manhattan, Staten Island, Suffolk County and Westchester County.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
My ex-husband hadn't paid child support or the mortgage on the house as he was supposed to. Stephen Bilkis and his team of lawyers were amazing. They stopped the foreclosure on the house, Got a judgment against him and most importantly kept me and my children in the house. Can't say enough good things about him in the firm their compassion hard work and dedication were exceptional. I.G.
★★★★★
From the very first phone call to Stephen Bilkis' office, the staff was extremely polite and helpful in assisting me. Mr. Bilkis was honest and upfront with me from the beginning in what he projected the outcome of my case would be; in the end we got better results than either of us anticipated. He was very genuine and compassionate in understanding my situation and how this legal matter could effect not only myself but my family as well. I highly recommend this law firm and will most definitely continue using them for any future legal needs. Jarrett
★★★★★
Stephen has handled numerous estate matters, criminal matters and family court matters effectively and with a goal-oriented approach. He gets great results and is a results-oriented attorney. Dustin