Long Island Fathers Rights Lawyer

Historically, when spouses decided to legally separate or divorce, the mother was awarded custody of the children. Today, the laws are very different due to society’s increasing awareness and promotion of fathers' rights and the ability of either sex to parent. The term “fathers' rights” refers to the parental rights and responsibilities all fathers have when it comes to their children. In New York, family law courts carefully weigh the best interests of the child when awarding custody, which has led to many fathers receiving custody of their children.

Fathers' Rights and Child Custody

Spouses who are going through a divorce, or parents who are not married, may not be able to reach a mutual child custody decision on their own. In these cases, the family courts must make a child custody decision for them. In these instances, the court’s primary objective is the child’s best interest. When the court makes a child custody decision, the court will consider several factors, which may include:

the child’s age
the child’s health
the child’s preference (if above a certain age)
each parent’s health, each parent’s lifestyle
the emotional bond between the child and each parent
the parent’s ability to provide for the child’s needs
the child’s current way of life

If the court believes that the child’s best interests and security will be protected if the child lives with the father, the court will award custody to him.

Fathers' Rights Attorney Serving Long Island

Fathers who are involved in a legal separation, divorce, or parental rights case should consult with an experienced family law attorney. A family law attorney can inform a father of his legal options, represent a father in court, and protect the father's rights to be with their child, paternity issues or modifying child support post divorce. An attorney can also explain the legal complexities surrounding child custody and child support.

Contact a Long Island fathers' rights lawyer at our firm for help with your family law matter.