Matters involving child support, custody and visitation are often contentious. It is important that attorneys be sensitive to the emotions of their clients and the potentially negative consequences of custody and support disputes on the children.Matters involving child support, custody and visitation are often contentious. It is important that attorneys be sensitive to the emotions of their clients and the potentially negative consequences of custody and support disputes on the children.

Child Support

In New York, child support is determined in accordance with specific statutes and guidelines. The guidelines provide for a percentage calculated up to a certain income level and then for a more subjective approach concerning income above the preset threshold. Some support issues are not included in the guidelines such as the cost of college, summer camp, music lessons and other expenses. Our law firm has the knowledge and skill to help clients resolve all aspects of child support and arrive at an appropriate child support arrangement. In cases when parental income is above the threshold, our law firm is often able to devise creative child support solutions.

Modifications and Other Issues

We represent clients seeking to modify child support orders upon a change in circumstances due to various factors such as job loss and illness. We also defend against applications for modification of support orders.

Custody and Visitation

In most cases, preservation and promotion of the parent-child relationship is in the best interest of a child. This means that unless a parent is demonstrably unfit, he or she should and will be permitted to liberal contact or visitation. We employ experts such as child psychologists when needed to resolve child custody and visitation matters during initial divorce proceedings or when seeking or opposing modifications. We also consult financial evaluators when clients are involved in child support disputes.

At The Kitson Law Firm, LLP, our attorneys help parents structure child custody, support and visitation in ways that work for them. Led by partner Patricia G. Kitson, a matrimonial lawyer with more than 30 years of legal experience, our attorneys encourage clients to work together with the co-parent whenever possible. We have found this approach to save money, time and stress. However, there are many instances when cooperation is not an option. In these situations, it is important to consult an attorney who will fight for clients vigorously in court.