One of the most stressful aspects of a contested divorce is the issue of child custody. When two parents do not agree on child custody arrangements the situation can become complicated very quickly. If you are currently experiencing this situation, you should consider hiring a lawyer to help you negotiate child custody in Long Island. A lawyer will be able to help you understand child custody laws in the state of New York and will fight for the best interests of you and your children. You would never leave the fate of your children up to chance, so do not attempt to negotiate child custody uniformed. Here are a few things you should know about child custody arrangements.
The first thing you need to understand about child custody in Long Island is that there are different types of custody. “Physical custody” refers to the child’s home. If two parents share joint physical custody it means that the child splits time between the mother’s and the father’s home. Some parents find this option preferable because it allows the child to spend meaningful time with each parent. Others find this option objectionable because they believe it creates instability in the child’s life, or they believe that one parent is not fit to take care of the child for extended periods of time. A lawyer will be able to present you with the different options for physical custody and will help you decide which option is best for your children.
The second type of child custody in Long Island is called “legal custody.” This term refers to the parent that has the right to make important decisions in the child’s life. If two parents share joint legal custody it means that they have to agree about the medical, educational, and religious aspects of their child’s upbringing. If they cannot agree on these decisions, they are then required to take the dispute to a mediator or a court where a judge will make the decision for them. If one parent retains full legal custody they have the right to make all important decisions without the consent of the other parent. If you believe that you deserve to be awarded full legal custody of your child, it is essential that you contact a child custody attorney in Long Island. A skilled attorney will help you bring your case into a court of law and will be able to represent you in front of a judge.
If you and your children are residents of New York, it is essential that you understand child custody in Long Island. For more information about child custody in Long Island contact a family law attorney today.
