Child custody is one of the most emotionally exhausting and stressful topics of a divorce. Being a parent is a great responsibility. We recognize the significance of your relationship with your child. This legal matter can affect the relationship you have with your child for years to come. If you are getting a divorce and you cannot come to an agreement with your soon-to-be ex-spouse over the matter, you will need to address the topic of child custody in court. Child custody is one of the most contentious and litigated topics in family law. Zimmet Law Group, P.C. is an experienced child custody law firm located in New York City. Our firm’s goal is to protect your interests and mitigate the effects of the divorce on you and your child. With decades of experience, our firm is ready to assess your situation, guide you through your legal matter, and zealously represent you. Contact Zimmet Law Group, P.C. for a consultation to discuss your legal matter.
How does New York determine custody?
It is greatly misunderstood that the parent who spends more time with the child has a greater entitlement to custody. Whether you work to care for the home or bring an income to support the family, the playing field is even when going to court. Obviously, there are many factors that go into the court’s decision on child custody, including, but not limited to:
- Each party’s ability to provide for the child
- Each party’s relationship with the child
- Each party’s history of domestic violence and abuse
- Each party’s mental and physical health
- Any history of alcohol and drug abuse
- Each party’s work schedule and lifestyle
- The health and age of the child
- The child’s preference
With these factors in mind, the court will always judge in the best interest of the child first. This is true with any legal matter regarding a child, including parental rights, adoption, and relocation.
Physical custody
If a parent is awarded physical custody, he or she is the parent that will house the child more of the time. This is also called residential custody. The parent awarded physical custody will spend more time with the child and possibly enjoy a closer relationship. In addition, depending on the situation, the parent that wins physical custody could be entitled to child support.
Legal custody
Legal custody is the right of a parent to make the important decisions in the life of a child, including academic, religious, social, and medical. Even if physical custody is lost, legal custody is a crucial part of a parent’s relationship. Without legal or physical custody, a person’s relationship with their child could be greatly diminished.
Contact Zimmet Law Group, P.C.
If you are a parent facing divorce, you will need to resolve the matter of child custody. Though some parents can work together and come to an agreement, others cannot. Whether litigation is a reality, or you can resolve your matter through alternative dispute resolution, Zimmet Law Group, P.C. is ready. For a consultation with one of our experienced New York City child custody attorneys, contact our firm today.
