Custody Agreements Tailored To Your Family's Unique Situation
When it comes to determining child custody and support, the law seeks to protect the best interests of the children. It is up to parents to help the court understand what that means given their family's unique circumstances.
At the law offices of a trusted attorney, you'll find that the attorney understands that each family's situation requires a unique approach. We can help you effectively make your case before the court and protect your parental rights. Our lawyer handles child custody disputes in regions of the area where you practice law after law school.
Our goal is always to establish parenting plans that protect the best interests of your children while also protecting your parental rights. While we strive for amicable resolutions where possible, we are fully prepared to take matters to trial if necessary to protect your rights.
Determining Child Custody As An Unmarried Parent
Unmarried parents face unique challenges in determining child custody. Unlike married parents going through divorce, unmarried parents who separate and wish to preserve shared custody and support may need to file a paternity action first. Filing a paternity action establishes each parent's rights in the eyes of the court, allowing them to protect their rights to shared custody, visitation and child support.
How Is Child Support Calculated?
Child support in both New York and New Jersey is calculated according to a set of statutory guidelines. These payment guidelines take several factors into consideration, including:
- The number of children you have
- Each parent's respective income or anticipated income if either parent is currently unemployed
- Any additional, out-of-pocket medical expenses a child may have
- Additional child-related expenses such as the cost of day care, summer camp, after-school programs and extracurricular activities
Our attorney will review your family's unique financial situation and help you understand how these guidelines may be applied to your case. In all cases, we seek resolutions that protect the best interests of your children while minimizing any unnecessary financial burden on you.
