Westchester County Child Custody Lawyers
Child custody and visitation determinations are often the most contested issues in a divorce. And they are one of the greatest sources of conflict in postdivorce matters. But The Penichet Firm, P.C. can help. We offer highly regarded legal support that is tailored to our clients' needs when child custody issues arise.
Our law firm assists clients in a wide range of legal matters related to child custody and visitation rights:
- Representation for child custody decisions in a divorce
- Visitation for grandparents, aunts, uncles and other relatives
- Enforcement of a child custody or visitation decision
- Modification of an existing child custody order
We have 30 years of experience in legal matters. Of counsel to our law firm is Fred L. Shapiro, a retired acting justice of the New York Supreme Court. Retired Justice Shapiro served in the matrimonial division of the New York court system for eight years. He has in-depth knowledge of the court system and can best advise clients about achieving their child custody and visitation goals.
Helping You Make the Right Child Custody Decisions in a Divorce
New York law distinguishes two types to custody: legal custody is the right and responsibility to make big decisions about your child's life, while physical custody describes where your child will live. Parents usually receive joint (shared) legal custody and one parent often gains sole physical custody.
New York state child custody law doesn't favor one parent — a father or mother — over another. Instead, the law looks at the best interests of the child. When one parent is awarded physical custody, the other will usually have visitation rights with the child. Having a strong lawyer on your side can help the judge understand your views about the best interests of the child.
When Domestic Violence is Involved
Alleged domestic violence against either a parent or a child can have a major impact on custody determinations. When domestic violence allegations are involved, a well-qualified attorney can help you protect your rights. At The Penichet Firm, P.C., our attorneys' experience with family law and criminal law is particularly valuable to clients when an Order of Protection is at issue or Child Protective Services becomes involved in divorce proceedings.
Contact Us
To talk with a lawyer about your child custody needs, contact The Penichet Firm, P.C. by calling 914-368-7039.
