How to Approach Sealing an Indicated SCR Report After a Family Court Neglect Finding: Legal Strategy and Pitfalls to Avoid
If you’ve been indicated for child neglect and your name appears in the New York State Central Register (SCR), you may be wondering whether you can have that report sealed or amended. For many, this record can create serious barriers to employment—especially in child-related professions. At The Gilmer Law Firm, PLLC, we...
Winning a Custody Battle Against a Narcissist in Court in New York
Custody battles are always challenging, but when the other parent displays traits of narcissism or suffers from Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), the stakes—and the stress—are dramatically higher. If you’re co-parenting with someone who exhibits emotional abuse, manipulation, gaslighting, and control, it’s critical to understand how narcissistic behaviors affect custody litigation and how...
The Role of the Attorney for the Child and Determining the Preferences of the Child in a Custody Battle in New York
In New York child custody litigation, the role of the Attorney for the Child (AFC) is critical—not only as an advocate but as a developmentally informed representative of the child’s expressed preferences. When parents are engaged in a custody dispute, the court may appoint an AFC to represent the child’s legal interests....
What Is the Role of the Attorney for the Child in New York?
In family court proceedings involving children, the court may appoint an Attorney for the Child (AFC) to represent the legal interests and expressed wishes of a minor. Previously referred to as “Law Guardians,” the title was officially changed in October 2007 to more accurately reflect their role as attorneys, governed by the...
Trauma-Informed Legal Representation for Victims of Domestic Violence in New York City Family Court
If you are experiencing domestic violence and need legal protection, seeking the help of a trauma-informed attorney for representation of victims of domestic violence in Family Court is not just recommended — it’s essential. At our Brooklyn-based family law practice, we specialize in helping survivors obtain orders of protection against abusive intimate...
Understanding Violation of a Child Support Order and Willfulness in Family Court in New York
As a New York Family Law attorney I handle proceedings for a violation of a Court Order to pay child support.
One of the most serious issues a parent can face in Family Court is an allegation of a violation of a child support order due to willfulness. Many...
The Grounds to Terminate Parental Rights (TPR) in New York Family Court: What Parents Need to Know
When it comes to child welfare law, few proceedings are as serious — or as life-changing — as a termination of parental rights (TPR). Once parental rights are terminated, the legal relationship between parent and child ends permanently, and the child becomes legally free for adoption.
In New York...
Do Grandparents Have Visitation Rights in New York?
Losing contact with a grandchild is heartbreaking. If you’re a grandparent in New York hoping to restore that relationship, you might wonder whether you have any legal rights in this situation. In many cases, the answer is yes. New York law gives grandparents the right to petition the courts...
How to Prepare for a CPS Court Hearing
When Child Protective Services (CPS) gets involved in your family’s life, it can feel overwhelming and frightening. If you’ve received notice of a CPS court hearing in New York City, you may feel anxious and unsure about what comes next. Knowing how to prepare legally and emotionally can help you feel more...
Can ACS Enter Your Home Without a Warrant?
Few things can be as stressful for a parent as finding out that you and your family are being investigated by the New York City Administration for Children’s Services (ACS). This agency is charged with protecting and promoting the safety and well-being of children, young people, and families...