Child Custody Lawyer New York | SRIS, P.C.
Child Custody Lawyer New York — What Are Your Parental Rights?
Child custody in New York County (Manhattan) is governed by the “best interests of the child” standard under the New York Family Court Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused representation for custody, visitation, and relocation matters in the New York County Supreme and Family Courts.
New York Child Custody Law
In New York, child custody determinations are made based on the child’s best interests, as defined by statute. The court considers factors such as the child’s wishes (where appropriate), the parents’ home environments, each parent’s ability to provide for the child’s emotional and intellectual development, and the need for stability. Custody can be legal (decision-making authority) or physical (where the child lives), and can be awarded as sole or joint custody. The primary statute is the New York Family Court Act (FCA), which outlines the procedures and standards for custody and visitation proceedings.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the New York Family Court Act (official New York State Senate). Court forms and procedural information can be found at the New York County Supreme Court website.
handling Custody in New York County Courts
Child custody matters in Manhattan are heard in either the New York County Supreme Court (if part of a divorce) or the New York County Family Court. The process is fact-intensive, often involving evaluations and hearings. In these courts, judges closely examine each parent’s involvement and the child’s primary attachments.
- File a petition for custody or visitation in the appropriate court (Family Court or Supreme Court).
- Attend preliminary conferences where the court may order mediation or a custody evaluation.
- Participate in discovery, which may include financial disclosure and interviews with a court-appointed evaluator.
- Attend settlement conferences; if no agreement is reached, proceed to a trial where both parents present evidence.
- The judge issues a custody and visitation order based on the child’s best interests.
Understanding Custody Outcomes
In New York County (Manhattan), child custody decisions are based on a multi-factor “best interests” analysis, with no predetermined preference for either parent.
| Aspect | Legal Standard | Potential Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Custody Type | Legal & Physical | Sole or Joint Custody |
| Primary Factor | Child’s Best Interests | Stability, Parental Fitness, Child’s Wishes |
| Visitation | Presumptive Right | Scheduled Parenting Time |
| Relocation | Burden on Moving Parent | Petition Required, Best Interests Test |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, our firm has a documented record of handling complex family law matters. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of New York’s statutory framework and the practical realities of its courtrooms. We focus on developing clear, evidence-based strategies for custody cases.
Case Results
Our firm-wide practice has resulted in 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While we actively represent clients in New York County family courts, each case is unique and requires a case-specific approach based on its specific facts and circumstances.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Child Custody Attorney New York — Contact Our Firm
Our New York location serves clients at the New York County (Manhattan) courts, accessible via all subway lines, the FDR Drive, and West Side Highway. We represent parents throughout Manhattan, including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, East Village, Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is child custody decided in New York?
It depends. New York courts use the “best interests of the child” standard, evaluating factors like each parent’s home environment, ability to provide care, the child’s relationships, and, if mature enough, the child’s wishes. There is no automatic preference for mothers or fathers.
What is the difference between legal and physical custody?
Legal custody involves the right to make major decisions about the child’s upbringing (education, healthcare, religion). Physical custody determines where the child primarily lives. Both can be sole or joint, and the arrangements are often combined in a parenting plan.
Can I move out of New York with my child after a custody order?
No, not without permission. If you wish to relocate, you must typically file a petition with the court that issued the custody order. The moving parent must show the move is in the child’s best interests, and the court will consider the impact on the child’s relationship with the other parent.
How can a child custody law firm New York help me?
A law firm can guide you through filing petitions, negotiating parenting agreements, representing you in court hearings, and advocating for your parental rights. They help present evidence effectively to support your case for custody or visitation under New York’s legal standards.
What if the other parent violates our custody order?
You can file a violation (enforcement) petition in Family Court. The court can hold the non-compliant parent in contempt, modify the order, or make up missed parenting time. Documenting all violations is crucial for these proceedings.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
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Under N.Y. Bus. Corp. Law § 101, state law governs this practice area.