Levoritz Law — Long Island Child Custody Attorneys
Child custody cases are often the most emotionally challenging aspect of divorce or separation. At Levoritz Law Firm, we understand the deep anxieties and high stakes involved.
Our experienced Long Island child custody lawyers provide compassionate legal guidance and unwavering advocacy, working tirelessly to protect your parental rights and ensure your children's best interests are at the forefront of every decision.
Our Long Island Child Custody Legal Services
We handle a full range of child custody matters and provide comprehensive legal support, including:
Developing Parenting Plans
We help parents craft detailed and comprehensive parenting plans that address a wide range of issues, including:
- Physical custody: Determining where the child will live and on what schedule.
- Legal custody: Outlining how parents will make major decisions regarding the child's upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious practices.
- Visitation schedules: Establishing regular visitation schedules for the non-custodial parent, ensuring meaningful and consistent contact with the child.
- Holiday schedules: Creating a clear plan for sharing holidays and school breaks to minimize conflict and provide stability.
- Decision-making: Determining how parents will communicate and make decisions regarding the child's well-being.
The parenting plans we can help you develop can also address issues like extracurricular activities, medical care, and disciplinary matters.
Custody Modifications
Life is full of changes, and those changes can impact existing custody arrangements. We assist with modifications to custody orders based on:
- Relocation: If one parent plans to move a significant distance away, the court will need to approve the relocation and may adjust the custody arrangement.
- Changes in a parent's circumstances: Significant changes in a parent's life, such as a new job, a change in living situation, or health issues, can necessitate a modification.
- The child's best interests: If the current custody arrangement is no longer serving the child's well-being, a modification may be necessary.
Whether you require a modification due to changes in the child's needs, parental alienation, or other factors, we’re here to assist you.
Relocation Cases
Relocation cases are particularly complex. If you're considering moving with your child, we'll provide guidance on:
- Legal requirements: You'll need to obtain either the consent of the other parent or court approval to relocate.
- Presenting a strong case: We'll help you gather evidence and build a compelling case demonstrating that the move is in your child's best interests.
- Addressing visitation concerns: We'll address concerns about how the relocation will impact visitation rights and work to create a visitation schedule that works for everyone.
We'll ensure you meet all legal requirements and file the necessary paperwork for a successful relocation.
Enforcement of Custody Orders
When one parent fails to comply with a court-ordered custody arrangement, we take action to protect your rights and enforce the order. We can:
- File motions with the court: We'll file legal motions seeking to compel the other parent to comply with the custody order.
- Seek contempt of court orders: If necessary, we can pursue contempt of court charges against a parent who willfully disregards court orders.
- Modify custody orders: In some cases, a custody order may need to be modified to reflect the reality of the situation and ensure the child's well-being.
Custody orders are legal requirements. When one parent fails to comply, steps can be taken to remedy the situation and restore court-ordered balance.
Parental Alienation
Parental alienation occurs when one parent tries to manipulate a child into rejecting or fearing the other parent. We have experience addressing parental alienation by:
- Educating the court: We'll work to educate the court about the harmful effects of parental alienation and how it can impact a child.
- Seeking custody evaluations: We may recommend a custody evaluation by a neutral mental health professional to assess the family dynamics and make recommendations.
- Advocating for reunification therapy: In some cases, reunification therapy may be necessary to help repair the damaged relationship between the child and the parent.
Unfortunately, parental alienation can have severe consequences for the child's emotional well-being. We will use our experience and resources to help you repair the bond between you and your child.
Why Choose Levoritz Law Firm for
Child Custody Proceedings in Long Island?
Experienced Child Custody Advocates on Your Side
We have a proven track record of successfully representing parents in all types of child custody matters on Long Island. Whether you're facing initial custody determinations, complex modifications, relocation disputes, or allegations of parental alienation, our attorneys have the knowledge, skill, and determination to advocate effectively for you.
Compassionate Counsel and Clear Communication
We recognize that child custody disputes are emotionally taxing. Our team provides empathetic guidance and clear, straightforward communication throughout the process. We'll be there to answer your questions, address your concerns, and ensure you feel supported and empowered every step of the way.
Personalized Legal Strategies Designed for Your Unique Family
Every family is different, and we believe in a personalized approach to legal representation. We'll take the time to listen carefully to your story, understand your unique circumstances, and develop a comprehensive legal strategy tailored to your specific goals.
Focused on Your Child's Best Interests
We're committed to fostering positive parent-child relationships and creating custody arrangements that prioritize your children's well-being. We work to promote stability, healthy development, and consistent contact with both parents whenever possible.
Real People, Real Stories
Meet Our Long Island Child Custody Law Team
Serving Long Island and the Suburbs
Levoritz Law Firm proudly serves individuals and families across Long Island and surrounding counties, providing skilled legal guidance wherever you are.
- Manhattan
- Long Island
- Nassau County
- Rockland County
- Brooklyn
- Staten Island
- Suffolk County
- Westchester County
Protect Your Child's Future — Contact Levoritz Law
Child custody cases are complex and emotionally challenging. Having an experienced and compassionate legal team on your side can make a significant difference. Contact Levoritz Law Firm today for a confidential consultation. We'll discuss your situation, answer your questions, and guide you toward the best possible outcome for your family.
Long Island Child Custody FAQs
- How does a court decide custody in New York?
New York courts prioritize the "best interests of the child." Factors they consider include each parent's ability to provide a stable and nurturing environment, the child's existing relationships with each parent, the child's wishes (if age-appropriate), each parent's work schedules and living arrangements, and any history of domestic violence, substance abuse, or other factors that could impact the child's well-being.
- What are the different types of child custody in New York?
There are two types of custody. Sole custody means one parent has primary physical custody and sole decision-making authority regarding the child's upbringing. Joint custody means parents share decision-making responsibilities, and the child may reside with each parent on a shared schedule. There are various forms of joint custody, and the specific arrangements can be tailored to suit the family's needs.
- Can I relocate with my child after a divorce?
Relocating with a child requires either the consent of the other parent or court approval. You'll need to file a petition demonstrating that the move is in the child's best interests. The court will consider factors like the reasons for the move, educational opportunities in the new location, support systems, and the impact on the child's relationship with the other parent.