Clearing Your Name — How a Parent Fought Back Against ACS and Won Reform
Imagine this: A parent is accused by their child, a case goes to Family Court, and the judge dismisses the claim. It seems resolved—except it isn’t. Even with that dismissal, the parent’s name might still be entered into New York’s child...
When Absences Turn into Legal Risk — How a Parent Can Respond to Charges of Educational Neglect
A few missed school days may seem harmless. But in New York, chronic absenteeism or excessive lateness can escalate from a “school issue” into a legal one. When that happens, a parent may find themselves defending against accusations of educational neglect—a serious matter...
Understanding the Difference Between Child Abuse and Neglect Under New York Law
In New York Family Court, the terms child abuse and child neglect often appear together — yet they describe very different legal standards. Both are governed by Article 10 of the Family Court Act (FCA), but the difference lies in the nature of harm to the child and the conduct of the...
Mandated Reporter Reform in New York: Protecting Children with Disabilities from Misinterpreted Neglect
In November 2023, New York passed a law with profound implications for child abuse investigations—especially for families of children with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Chapter 646 of the Laws of 2023 amends Social Services Law §§ 413 and 421, requiring the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) to update its mandated...
Can You Be Indicated for Neglect for Leaving Your Kids Alone? Brooklyn ACS Defense Lawyer Explains What Happened in the Charlotte MM Case
By George M. Gilmer, Esq. | Gilmer Law Firm PLLC | Call 718-864-2011
What Every Parent in Brooklyn Needs to Know About OCFS Indicated Reports and Article 78 AppealsIf you live in Brooklyn or anywhere in New York City and you’ve been “indicated”...
What Is the Difference Between Neglect or Abuse Proceedings in Family Court and Administrative Hearings to Amend an Indicated Report with OCFS?
When someone is accused of child abuse or neglect in New York, it’s crucial to understand which legal process applies—and what’s at stake. At The Gilmer Law Firm PLLC, located in Brooklyn, New York, we represent parents, caregivers, and alleged perpetrators in both Family Court Article 10 proceedings and administrative hearings to...