When a child is born to unmarried parents, the biological father doesn’t automatically have the same legal rights as a married father. Even if everyone agrees on who the father is, legal parentage must be established before the father has enforceable rights. For...
No, a parent who does not hold legal custody rights over their child is typically prevented from making key medical or healthcare decisions on that child’s behalf. For example, during a divorce, the custody order should identify which parent has legal custody rights....
Co-parents usually have numerous, ongoing conversations to handle child-related decisions. After creating a co-parenting plan, you and the other parent should have a few immediate conversations to set the tone for your co-parenting. Every family is unique. So,...
A new job in another state, a fresh start near family or a lower cost of living can all feel right for you and your child. But when you share custody after a New York divorce, packing up is rarely as simple as signing a lease. Your former spouse still has parenting...
Some parents have automatic rights under New York law. Women who give birth in New York state automatically have custody rights. Married fathers also benefit from a presumption of paternity that allows for the immediate inclusion of their name on a child's birth...
When it comes to child custody and visitation rights, things often go smoothly for the parents during the school year. But when the children get out for summer break, that is when they may need to make changes to their schedule. The major reason for this is simply...
Even though your marriage is ending, your role as a parent is not. Divorce is a time of transition for everyone, and it can feel overwhelming -- especially when emotions are still raw. A well-crafted parenting plan can help provide your children with stability despite...
Parenting rights cases can be stressful, especially for fathers seeking custody or visitation. In New York, courts focus on the best interests of the child. Judges look at each parent’s actions, involvement, stability and ability to co-parent. Understanding common...
If you want shared physical custody in New York, the court focuses on facts that show how your involvement supports your child’s best interests. Judges look at daily care, stability, and cooperation between parents. Clear evidence helps show that shared physical...
Military deployment can disrupt parenting schedules and raise concerns about custody. New York law addresses these challenges directly by protecting parental rights while keeping the child’s best interests at the center of every decision. Deployment does not...
