Parenting Plans and Custody Disputes
You want what's in the best interests of your child. So does the other parent. You might not always be in agreement on what that means, though.
At DeRoberts Law Firm, we help clients find an acceptable middle ground while still protecting their rights and the best interests of their children. Our child custody lawyer is knowledgeable about New York family law and experienced in crafting out-of-court parenting agreements. He aims for workable arrangements that keep both parents active in the child's life and allows both to have input into decisions about the child’s upbringing (including such things as religion, education and health care).
If you truly cannot come to terms on primary custody or the specifics of the parenting plan, Jeffrey DeRoberts can also capably advance your interests in child custody litigation.
Call our Syracuse, New York, law office at 866-918-8875 to arrange a free consultation. Mr. DeRoberts practices in family courts throughout Central New York, routinely representing parents from Onondaga County to Watertown, Rome and Utica.
Resolving Child Custody Disputes
Generally, one parent will be named the primary custodian, and the other parent will have visitation. Family court judges of New York do not automatically favor the mother, nor do they assume the higher-earning parent can provide a "better home." The court's sole criterion is the best interests of the child, usually the parent who has been the primary caregiver and is in the best position to meet the child’s physical and emotional needs. The court will consider, but is not necessarily bound by, the preference of an older child for one parent over the other.
Shared parenting — roughly equal time with each parent — is becoming more common. Other parents prefer the standard visitation. Some parents want specific do's, don'ts and exchange times in writing, while others prefer an open and flexible arrangement. Mr. DeRoberts can help you work out the logistics of any parenting plan, offering creative solutions to mesh work schedules, the child's activities and exchanges.
Long-Distance Parent? We have represented many parents who now live hours away from their child, or in another state. Just because you are not physically near does not mean you give up your rights to regular contact and involvement. We can negotiate additional parenting time on summer breaks, school breaks and holidays, including travel arrangements and expenses. We can also require that the other parent make your child available by phone or Internet at given times so that you can "be there" even without physically being there.
Your Child Needs Both of You
Even though you and your spouse are divorcing, you will both be parents forever. An agreement of your making is almost always preferable to a judge's mandate, and is less likely to cause disputes. Contact an attorney who understands custody and visitation law, as well as the tendencies of area family law judges.
Call DeRoberts Law Firm toll-free at 866-918-8875 or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. We offer flexible appointments for your convenience.
