Child Support Lawyer & Custody Attorney in Queens, NY

Helping Your Family Establish Child Custody and Visitation Orders

Attorney Joseph H. Nivin Esq. is a child custody lawyer who knows how much family matters; that’s why he will do everything he can to help lessen the effect of custody and visitation hearings on your family. Hearings on custody and visitation are high-stakes situations that can come with life-changing results. These hearings are sometimes the toughest parts of a divorce or separation.

Family law judges or referees in the State of New York focus on what is in the best interest of the child or children. An experienced custody and visitation attorney will help you understand what will happen during a hearing and the criteria a New York judge or referee will use to determine custodial and visitation arrangements. Call our Forest Hills office at 877-704-9920, or contact us online.

Understanding Child Custody in Queens

Are you navigating the emotional and financial complexities of child support and custody in Queens, NY or Forest Hills, NY? At the Law Offices of Joseph H. Nivin, P.C., our experienced custody lawyers in Queens, NY are dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your family. Whether you’re facing disputes about child support, child custody, or both, we offer personalized legal representation that puts your child’s needs and your peace of mind first. Contact us today to learn more about child custody and support legal services in Queens, NY.

Visitation Rights in Queens, NY

Decisions regarding child visitation rights can be the most important decisions that you will make during your divorce or separation. The courts strongly support and encourage the involvement of both parents, even where they determine that the child or children should primarily live with one parent. Child visitation law governs the rights of noncustodial parents to spend time with their children. These cases are handled by state courts during family law proceedings, which include divorces and Family Court custody proceedings.

Why Choose Our Custody Lawyers in Queens, NY?

Our team stands out for our commitment, compassion, and proven results in family law. We understand that no two families are alike, and we tailor every legal strategy to your unique circumstances. Our Queens, NY custody attorneys:

Represent clients in all areas of child custody and support, including modifications and enforcement
Provide clear, responsive communication from your initial consultation through the resolution of your case
Are deeply familiar with Queens and Forest Hills family court systems and procedures

Our goal is to protect your parental rights and ensure your child’s well-being—both now and in the future.

Child Support Legal Services Offered in Queens

Our firm delivers a comprehensive suite of child support services for families throughout Queens and Forest Hills, including:

Filing or responding to child support petitions in Queens Family Court
Enforcing support orders for unpaid or late payments
Requesting modifications to existing child support orders
Establishing legal paternity
Handling related matters such as custody, visitation, and cases of abuse or neglect

Let our Queens, NY custody attorneys guide you through every step and ensure your documentation is accurate and complete.

How Child Support Is Determined in New York

Child support in New York is governed by the Child Support Standards Act (CSSA). The law considers:

Combined gross parental income
Number of children supported

Basic guideline percentages:

17% for one child
25% for two children
29% for three children
31% for four children
35% or more for five or more children

The court may adjust the support amount based on health care, educational needs, and child care expenses. Every case is unique—our custody lawyers in Queens, NY ensure your support payments are calculated fairly and accurately.

Modifying and Enforcing Child Support & Custody Orders

Significant life changes—such as job loss, a new child, or changes in custody arrangements—may require modifying your existing court orders. Our legal team can:

Prepare and file modification petitions for child support or custody
Gather and present relevant evidence in court
Assist with enforcement actions if a parent is not complying, such as wage garnishment or driver’s license suspension

We help parents in Queens and Forest Hills restore compliance and protect their rights.

Child Custody Services and Strategic Legal Representation

As experienced custody lawyers in Queens, NY, we provide thorough advocacy for clients facing challenging child custody disputes, including:

Custody evaluations and trial representation
Mediation and alternative dispute resolution for amicable outcomes
Advocacy for modifications, including relocation and emergency custody changes

If you need a custody lawyer in Queens, NY or Forest Hills, NY, contact us today for a confidential consultation.

Understanding Your Options as a Parent in Queens, NY

What are the types of child custody?

Legal custody refers to the authority to make decisions about the child’s upbringing. Physical custody involves where the child lives. Custody can be joint or sole, and arrangements are always tailored to the best interests of the child.

Why does the right custody attorney matter?

A skilled NY custody attorney helps you navigate negotiations and court proceedings, ensuring you understand your options and advocating for the arrangement that best serves your child’s needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Child Support & Custody in Queens, NY

How can I change my child support or custody order in Queens, NY?

You may file for a modification if there has been a substantial change in circumstances, such as a change in income or a relocation. Our custody lawyers in Queens, NY can help prepare your petition and represent you in court.

What happens if my ex-partner doesn’t pay child support?

If the non-custodial parent is not paying support, you may seek enforcement through actions such as income withholding, property liens, or even driver’s license suspension.

How do courts decide who gets custody in Queens, NY?

Courts focus on the best interests of the child, considering factors like parental stability, ability to provide for the child, and the existing relationship between the child and each parent.

Can grandparents get visitation rights in Queens, NY?

In some cases, grandparents can petition for visitation if it is in the child’s best interest and they have a significant existing relationship.

Call Us to Discuss Your Options

We work hard to make this process as easy on you and your children as possible. Call our Forest Hills office at 877-704-9920, or contact us online to get started.