Long Island Child Custody Lawyer

Help Navigating Child Custody Matters

At Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein, our Long Island attorneys understand the complexity and sensitivity of child custody cases. Our goal is to help our clients achieve the best possible outcome for their children and themselves.

Types of Child Custody

Child custody can be categorized into different types based on the arrangement and decision-making authority. There are two main types of child custody: residential custody and legal custody. Residential custody refers to where the child will live, while legal custody refers to who will make important decisions regarding the child's upbringing, such as education and healthcare.

We can assist with:

• Sole Custody: This type of custody grants one parent exclusive physical and legal custody of the child. The custodial parent has the right to make all major decisions regarding the child's upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious matters. The non-custodial parent may still have visitation rights or parenting time.

• Joint Custody: Joint custody refers to an arrangement where both parents share the physical and legal custody of the child. In this type of custody, parents have equal decision-making authority and responsibilities. The child spends significant time with both parents, and they collaborate on major decisions affecting the child's well-being.

• Legal Custody: Legal custody pertains to the authority to make important decisions regarding the child's upbringing and welfare. This includes decisions related to education, healthcare, religious upbringing, and other significant matters. Legal custody can be awarded solely to one parent (sole legal custody) or jointly to both parents (joint legal custody).

• Residential Custody: Residential custody (also known as physical) determines where the child resides and the day-to-day care they receive. It can be granted solely to one parent (sole physical custody) or shared between both parents (joint physical custody). In joint residential custody, the child spends substantial time with each parent, ensuring a significant and continuing relationship with both.

• Visitation: Visitation, also known as parenting time, refers to the non-custodial parent's right to spend time with the child. When one parent has sole custody, the other parent typically has visitation rights. Visitation schedules can vary, ranging from supervised visitation (when deemed necessary for the child's safety) to unsupervised visitation, depending on the circumstances.

Factors Considered in Child Custody Cases

When determining child custody in New York, the court takes into account several factors to ensure the best interests of the child. These factors include: 

• The child's age and gender
• The child's relationship with each parent
• The ability of each parent to provide for the child's physical and emotional needs
• The parent's mental and physical health
• The parent's willingness to foster a relationship
• The parent's stability and lifestyle
• The history of any domestic violence or abuse
• The child's preference, if they are old enough to express them

Our Approach to Long Island Child Custody Cases

Our attorneys take a collaborative approach to child custody cases, working with our clients to develop the best possible strategy for their unique situation. We believe that the best outcomes are achieved when both parties can come to an agreement outside of court.

However, we are also prepared to vigorously represent our clients in court if necessary. We will always prioritize the best interests of the child in every case we handle.

Skilled Child Support Attorneys in Long Island

Regardless of the dynamics between you and the other parent of your child, the well-being and needs of your child are of paramount importance. At Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein LLP, our experienced child custody attorneys in Long Island are dedicated to securing what's really in the best interest of your child.

Arrange a consultation today by calling (516) 614-4104 or by completing our contact form.