What Is an Acknowledgment of Paternity? What if I don’t sign it? Understanding Your Legal Rights and the Consequences of Signing
An Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP) is a voluntary legal document signed by unmarried parents to officially establish the child’s legal father. It’s often presented for signature at the hospital when the child is born. Both parents must sign the form...
Safe Co-Parenting After Domestic Violence: How Technology Can Empower Brooklyn Families
Navigating co-parenting in the aftermath of domestic violence is one of the most difficult challenges a parent can face. As a Brooklyn Family Court attorney with years of experience representing victims of intimate partner abuse, I have seen firsthand how traditional communication methods—texts, emails, even verbal exchanges—can retraumatize survivors and escalate conflict.
Winning a Motion to Dismiss in Family Court: What It Takes to Defeat a Harassment Petition in New York
At The Gilmer Law Firm, PLLC, we regularly defend clients facing petitions for orders of protection in New York Family Court—often based on claims of harassment. While these petitions can have serious consequences, not every allegation meets the legal threshold. In some cases, we’re able to file a motion to dismiss early...
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...
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...
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...
Filing a Restraining Order in Brooklyn
As a skilled Family Court lawyer in Brooklyn, New York City, I have a proven track record of successfully representing numerous clients in custody, visitation, and restraining order cases. My expertise and experience make me well-equipped to handle even...