What should I know about visitation hearings?
Many people throughout New York State find themselves in situations where they need to attend a child custody or visitation hearing. This is typically the case when a couple cannot agree on a custody arrangement and therefore, the judge is required to make this decision for them.
Child custody battles can quickly get ugly and become painful for the parents and the child or children. A child custody or visitation hearing can allow a judge to finally put an end to this battle. Don’t be alarmed if once you get to the hearing, there are more people there than you expected. Some of the people who may attend a hearing of this nature include a social worker, witnesses who know the parents well that can make a case for one parent over the other, a guardian ad litem if one has been appointed, and the child’s attorney.
When it comes time for the child custody/visitation hearing to take place, it is important for the parents to go in knowing the judge is always going to rule based on what they believe is in the best interest of the child. The witnesses representing each side will give their testimony, explaining why they believe it is in the child’s best interest to give custody to one parent over another. In addition, the judge will consider any documents and reports from the social worker and the guardian ad litem. After hearing all of the testimonies and reviewing any available documents, the judge will be able to make an educated decision as to who they believe is better fit to parent the child.
If you have questions about child custody or visitation rights in New York State, contact an experienced family law attorney who can provide you with assistance.
Robert Pollack is an experienced divorce and family law attorney in Long Island, New York. Contact The Pollack Law Firm, P.C., to set up a free initial consultation.
