Child Custody In New York

Child custody and mediation in New York

For divorcing couples with children, child custody is the most important and delicate issue included in their divorce agreement. The final outcome will not only affect the child’s future and overall wellbeing, but it will also have a significant impact on the lives of both parents.

At the very core of the child custody issue, lies the question of which parent will obtain primary custody? In some cases the answer is relatively straight forward, but in other cases it is the source of a long and bitter battle between the divorcing parents.

Through professional negotiation processes, divorce mediation aims to bypass such an unpleasant scenario to arrive at a solid and collaborative agreement concerning the custody of your children. A professional divorce mediator will help you reach an agreement which encompasses your child’s best interests and ensures that both you and your spouse maintain your important parental roles.

Remember, your divorce mediation agreement is based on mutual acceptance. No one will be able to force you to accept any terms of child custody that you are not comfortable with

If you unsure of whether or not divorce mediation services may be able to help you and your spouse reach an agreement regarding the care of your children, contact me using the form below and I will be in touch with you within 4 business hours.

Schedule a free divorce mediation consultation >>

Determining Child Custody

A divorce mediator will help you determine your child custody arrangements by evaluating the situation in light of your child’s best interests and wellbeing. Factors which will be taken into consideration will include the wishes of the child (if he or she is old enough), financial stability, maturity, atmosphere in the home, availability, morals and ethics, past conduct, and the willingness to act as a solid parental figure.

While we form your child custody agreement (as part of your divorce agreement) you and your spouse will decide which form of child custody is best for your child.

Sole Child Custody

Sole child custody gives one parent primary custody of the child with the other parent granted specific visitation rights. The sole custodial parent has the exclusive right to make major legal decisions concerning the child’s life.

Joint Child Custody

Joint custody means that both parents have equal rights when it comes to making big decisions for their children including child care, education, religious upbringing, medical and dental care, trips, extra-curricular activities, competitive sports and recreation.

One parent’s home will be designated as the primary residence for the child, with the other parent’s home considered as a secondary residence.

Shared Child Custody

In shared child custody, both parents equally share legal custody of their children, with each of their residences considered a main home to their children. Each parent also has equal rights when it comes to making major decisions for their children.

If you have any questions concerning the custody of your children after your divorce, don't hesitate to contact me by filling in the form below. I will get back to you with concrete, honest and professional answers in the next 4 business hours.

Schedule a free divorce mediation consultation >>