Pursuing Custody of Children
The lawyers at Quatela Chimeri are both attorneys and ‘counselors’ at law when it comes to navigating the waters of child custody matters in New York. We strive to ensure that you are confidently supported in making the decisions that are involved in the legal matters concerning your children.
New York’s child custody laws are put in place to protect a child’s best interest. In determining the legal and residential custody, there are several specific factors a court will use to determine the best interest.
Child custody is often the most emotional and contested part of a divorce or separation. The most important step you can take in preparation for obtaining custody is to hire an attorney with as much experience at settling a custody case, as one who can confidently conduct a trial. Presenting your particular circumstances at trial to demonstrate how the best interest standard applies to your case requires strategic, skilled and thoughtful preparation. Our seasoned attorneys are committed to protecting parent-child relationships and the rights involved in resolving child custody and visitation disputes.
Quatela Chimeri recognizes the intricacies involved when same-sex couples with children decide to dissolve their relationship. Our LGBTQ-experienced team of attorneys is fully prepared to advocate for LGBTQ parents and to protect your equal right to parent.
Changing a Child Custody Ruling
Judges are human and, as such, the Court may not always decide a custody matter in line with your view about the best interests of your child. Quatela Chimeri is especially skilled at addressing custody or visitation outcomes that have been decided by a Court. If you disagree with the custody arrangement the court has determined, you may have the right to seek an appeal.
There are several factors to consider when appealing a custody verdict, including challenges, chances of success, outcome, effects on your child and costs. Decisions can also be modified if there is a significant change of circumstances that affect the child’s interests. Our attorneys are sought after in post-decision matters including appeals and modification proceedings.