Best Child Support Lawyer in New York: Expert Legal Representation for Parents

When you’re dealing with child support issues in New York, finding the right legal representation is crucial.

A skilled attorney can help you navigate the complex laws and ensure fair outcomes for both parents and children.

You can find experienced child support lawyers in New York City who specialize in family law and have a track record of successful cases. These professionals understand the nuances of New York’s child support guidelines and can advocate effectively for your rights and your child’s best interests.

1) Lisa S. Cohen

A courtroom with a confident lawyer presenting a compelling case to the judge

Lisa S. Cohen is a highly regarded child support attorney practicing in New York.

With her extensive experience, she has established herself as a trusted advocate for parents navigating complex child support cases.

You can rely on Lisa’s expertise to help you understand your rights and obligations regarding child support.

She is well-versed in New York’s child support laws and guidelines, ensuring that you receive accurate advice tailored to your specific situation.

Lisa’s approach is client-focused.

She takes the time to listen to your concerns and goals.

She will work diligently to develop a strategy that aligns with your best interests and those of your children.

Whether you’re seeking to establish, modify, or enforce a child support order, Lisa can guide you through the legal process.

Her attention to detail and thorough preparation can be invaluable in presenting your case effectively.

You can expect clear communication and regular updates on your case when working with Lisa.

She understands the emotional and financial impact of child support issues and strives to provide compassionate yet professional representation.

Lisa’s commitment to her clients extends beyond the courtroom.

She can assist you in negotiating agreements and exploring alternative dispute resolution methods when appropriate.

2) Alison Arden Besunder

Alison Arden Besunder is a highly experienced attorney specializing in estate planning and litigation.

As a partner at Goetz Fitzpatrick LLP, she chairs the Trusts & Estates Group, bringing extensive knowledge to child support cases.

You’ll find Alison’s background in commercial litigation particularly valuable.

Her expertise spans various areas, including real estate, finance, and healthcare, which can be crucial in complex child support matters.

Alison’s recognition as a Super Lawyer from 2019 to 2024 speaks to her professional excellence.

This distinction is based on peer recognition and professional achievement, assuring you of her capabilities.

Your child support case can benefit from Alison’s unique blend of estate planning and litigation skills.

Her experience in probate proceedings and contested accountings can be invaluable when dealing with financial aspects of child support.

Alison’s previous role as the founder of her own law firm demonstrates her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to client service.

You can expect personalized attention and a thorough understanding of your specific needs.

With a law degree from Brooklyn Law School and licensure in New York since 1999, Alison brings over two decades of legal experience to your case.

Her commitment to staying current with legal trends ensures you receive up-to-date advice.

3) Julia Vangorodska

A busy New York courtroom with a confident lawyer presenting a case

Julia Vangorodska is a highly respected child support lawyer in New York.

With years of experience in family law, she has established herself as a formidable force in the legal community.

You can trust Julia to handle your child support case with expertise and dedication.

She understands the complexities of New York’s child support laws and works tirelessly to ensure her clients receive fair outcomes.

Julia’s approach is both compassionate and aggressive when necessary.

She communicates clearly, ensuring you understand every step of the legal process.

Her support extends beyond the courtroom, guiding you through the emotional challenges of child support disputes.

As the founder of Vangorodska Law Firm, Julia has built a reputation for excellence in family law.

She specializes in various aspects of divorce and separation, including child custody and support matters.

Julia’s expertise isn’t limited to child support.

She also handles cases involving probate, wills, and living wills.

This broad knowledge base allows her to provide comprehensive legal advice tailored to your unique situation.

When you choose Julia Vangorodska, you’re selecting a lawyer who is well-respected by judges and peers in the New York judicial system.

Her professional standing can be a valuable asset in your child support case.

Julia’s commitment to her clients is evident in her track record of success.

She has represented hundreds of clients in divorce and child support cases, consistently achieving favorable outcomes.

4) Erin M. H. Wygle

A sleek, modern office with a view of the New York City skyline.</p><p>A desk cluttered with legal papers and a shelf of law books

Erin M. H. Wygle is a dedicated child support lawyer in New York. Her expertise in family law makes her a strong advocate for parents seeking fair child support arrangements.

You’ll find that Wygle’s approach is client-centered.

She takes the time to understand your unique situation and goals.

This personalized attention helps ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

Wygle stays up-to-date with New York’s child support laws.

Her knowledge allows her to navigate complex legal procedures efficiently.

You can trust her to explain your rights and obligations clearly.

In negotiations, Wygle is known for her strategic thinking.

She works to reach fair agreements without unnecessary conflict.

When litigation is necessary, she provides strong representation in court.

Wygle’s experience extends to child support modifications.

If your circumstances have changed, she can help you seek appropriate adjustments to existing orders.

You’ll appreciate Wygle’s commitment to keeping you informed throughout the legal process.

She provides regular updates and is available to answer your questions.

Clients often praise Wygle for her professionalism and empathy.

She understands the emotional challenges of child support cases and offers supportive guidance.

5) Bryan L. Salamone

Bryan L. Salamone is a prominent divorce and family law attorney based in Long Island, New York.

As the founder of Bryan L. Salamone & Associates, P.C., he has built a reputation for aggressive representation in child support cases.

You’ll find that Salamone is known for his tough trial tactics and courtroom style.

His approach has proven successful in securing favorable outcomes for many clients in matrimonial and family law matters.

Salamone’s expertise extends beyond child support to cover all aspects of divorce and family law.

His firm is recognized as one of the largest divorce and family law practices on Long Island.

When you work with Salamone, you’re engaging an attorney who has been voted best on Long Island.

This recognition speaks to his skill and effectiveness in handling complex legal matters.

Salamone’s experience includes authoring articles on international law and maintaining memberships in various professional and bar associations.

This breadth of knowledge can be particularly valuable in child support cases with international elements.

If you’re seeking aggressive representation for your child support case, Salamone’s track record of success might make him a strong candidate.

His firm’s size and resources can provide additional support for your legal needs.

Remember that child support cases can be emotionally charged.

Salamone’s direct approach may be well-suited if you’re looking for an attorney who will fight hard for your interests and those of your children.

6) Paul E. Rudder

A lawyer's office in New York with a prestigious plaque and professional decor

Paul E. Rudder is a highly regarded divorce and family law attorney in New York City.

With over 30 years of experience, he has established himself as a top-rated lawyer in handling complex child support cases.

You can benefit from Rudder’s expertise in various family law matters, including child custody, financial support, and intricate financial issues.

His commitment to providing high-quality legal services in a cost-effective manner sets him apart from other attorneys.

Rudder’s office is conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan, making it easily accessible for clients throughout New York City.

You can schedule a consultation to discuss your child support case and receive personalized legal advice.

As a testament to his skill and reputation, Rudder has been consistently recognized as a New York Super Lawyer for the past 17 years.

This distinction highlights his professional achievements and peer recognition in the field of family law.

When you choose Paul E. Rudder as your child support lawyer, you can expect dedicated representation and a thorough understanding of New York family law.

His experience in handling thousands of cases ensures that you receive knowledgeable guidance throughout your legal proceedings.

7) Deborah L. Karpatkin

Deborah L. Karpatkin is a highly respected attorney in New York specializing in employment law, civil rights, and military law.

You can find her practicing at the Law Office of Deborah H. Karpatkin in New York City.

With years of experience under her belt, Karpatkin offers trusted counsel and effective representation to her clients.

She has been recognized for her expertise, receiving accolades for her work in the legal field.

If you’re looking for a lawyer who understands the complexities of employment discrimination, Karpatkin might be the right choice for you.

She has been teaching Employment Discrimination Law at Touro Law Center since 2018, showcasing her depth of knowledge in this area.

Karpatkin’s practice extends beyond employment law.

She serves clients in a wide range of litigation and transactional workplace matters.

Her diverse clientele includes individuals, small business owners, executives in transition, and lower-wage workers.

As a solo practitioner based in New York City, Karpatkin provides personalized attention to each case.

You can expect client-centered representation when you work with her.

While child support may not be her primary focus, Karpatkin’s experience in family law and general practice could be beneficial if you’re dealing with child support issues alongside employment or civil rights matters.

8) Katherine Eisold Miller

Katherine Eisold Miller is a highly respected family law attorney in New York.

With her extensive experience, she has established herself as a leading figure in the field of child support cases.

Miller’s approach to family law is comprehensive and client-focused.

She not only handles child support matters but also covers a wide range of family law issues, including divorce and estate planning.

Miller’s expertise has earned her recognition in the legal community.

She has been selected for Super Lawyers from 2013 to 2024, a testament to her skill and dedication.

When you work with Miller, you benefit from her knowledge of both New York and Connecticut child support laws.

This dual-state expertise can be particularly valuable if your case involves cross-state considerations.

Miller’s practice, the Miller Law Group, is known for its commitment to alternative dispute resolution methods.

This approach can help you resolve child support issues more amicably and efficiently.

You can expect Miller to advocate strongly for your interests while ensuring that your child’s well-being remains the top priority.

Her experience in mediation can be especially helpful in reaching mutually beneficial agreements.

If you’re seeking a child support lawyer who combines legal acumen with a compassionate understanding of family dynamics, Katherine Eisold Miller could be an excellent choice for your case.

9) Neil Cahn

When seeking a child support lawyer in New York, you may want to consider Neil Cahn.

With over 40 years of experience practicing law on Long Island, Cahn has established himself as a respected family law attorney.

Cahn’s educational background includes a degree from Yale College and a Law Review graduate distinction from Hofstra University School of Law.

This strong academic foundation has contributed to his expertise in family law matters.

You’ll find that Cahn takes a practical approach to resolving complex divorces.

He aims to settle cases without resorting to aggressive tactics that may escalate conflicts.

This method can be beneficial when dealing with sensitive child support issues.

Clients have praised Cahn for his professionalism, knowledge, and competence.

His ability to efficiently negotiate divorce stipulations has been particularly noted.

You can expect compassionate representation from Cahn, as he prioritizes his clients’ best interests.

In addition to his work on child support cases, Cahn has experience with various family law matters.

These include custody disputes, property division, and spousal support issues.

His comprehensive understanding of family law can be advantageous when addressing complex child support situations.

Cahn’s office is located in Carle Place, NY, making him accessible to clients throughout Long Island and the surrounding areas.

You can reach out to discuss your child support case and determine if his services align with your needs.

10) Sherri Donovan

Sherri Donovan is a prominent divorce lawyer in New York with extensive experience in child support cases.

Her expertise in family law makes her a strong advocate for children’s rights and financial support.

You’ll find that Donovan graduated cum laude from New York Law School in 1985, where she excelled in civil litigation courses.

Her educational background also includes studies at the London School of Economics and Bennington College.

As the owner of her own law firm since 1988, Donovan has been providing professional and assertive representation to her clients.

She utilizes various methods to fit your specific situation, including mediation, collaborative law, and litigation when necessary.

Donovan’s practice areas encompass all aspects of matrimonial and family law.

You can rely on her expertise in matters related to child custody, parental access, and child support.

She also handles cases involving maintenance and property distribution.

If you’re seeking a child support attorney who can effectively protect your children’s interests, Donovan’s experience makes her a valuable choice.

Her approach combines legal knowledge with a caring attitude towards her clients’ needs.

You can benefit from Donovan’s skills in negotiation and her understanding of complex family dynamics.

Her commitment to children’s rights ensures that your child support case will be handled with the utmost care and attention to detail.

Understanding Child Support Laws

New York has specific guidelines and legal obligations for parents regarding child support.

These laws aim to ensure children receive adequate financial support from both parents.

Overview of New York Child Support Guidelines

The Child Support Standards Act (CSSA) governs child support calculations in New York.

It uses a formula based on parental income and the number of children.

For one child, the support amount is 17% of combined parental income.

This percentage increases with more children:

  • 2 children: 25%
  • 3 children: 29%
  • 4 children: 31%
  • 5 or more children: At least 35%

The court may adjust these percentages based on factors like extraordinary expenses or special needs.

Legal Obligations of Parents

In New York, both parents are legally obligated to support their children until age 21.

This applies regardless of marital status or custody arrangements.

The noncustodial parent typically pays child support to the custodial parent.

However, if you share custody equally, the higher-earning parent may still need to pay support.

You can file for child support through the court system if you have a child under 21.

Before establishing support, parentage must be legally determined.

Child support covers basic needs like food, shelter, and clothing.

It may also include healthcare, education, and childcare expenses.

Finding the Best Child Support Lawyer

Selecting the right child support lawyer is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring fair outcomes.

A skilled attorney can navigate complex legal processes and advocate effectively on your behalf.

Key Qualities to Look For

Experience is paramount when choosing a child support lawyer.

Look for attorneys with a proven track record in family law cases. The Law Office of Barbara J. Strauss has over 14 positive client reviews, indicating consistent quality service.

Seek lawyers who specialize in child support cases.

They should have in-depth knowledge of New York’s child support laws and guidelines.

Communication skills are vital.

Your lawyer should explain legal concepts clearly and keep you informed throughout the process.

Consider the attorney’s negotiation skills.

Many child support cases are resolved through mediation or settlement discussions.

Availability and responsiveness are important.

Choose a lawyer who can dedicate sufficient time to your case.

Questions to Ask During Consultation

Inquire about the lawyer’s experience with cases similar to yours.

Ask how many child support cases they’ve handled in the past year.

Discuss their strategy for your case.

A good lawyer should provide a clear plan tailored to your specific situation.

Ask about potential outcomes and timelines.

While no guarantees can be made, an experienced lawyer should give you a realistic assessment.

Inquire about their fee structure.

Understand how you’ll be billed and what services are included.

Ask who will be working on your case.

Some firms may assign junior attorneys or paralegals to certain tasks.

Request references from past clients.

Speaking with former clients can provide valuable insights into the lawyer’s performance.

The Legal Process for Child Support Cases

Child support cases in New York follow a structured legal process.

Understanding this process can help you navigate the system more effectively and ensure your rights are protected.

Filing a Child Support Petition

To initiate a child support case, you must file a petition with the Family Court.

You can do this independently or with the help of an attorney.

The petition should include essential information about both parents and the child.

Once filed, the court will schedule a hearing date.

The other parent must be served with a copy of the petition and a summons to appear in court.

This service must be done according to specific legal requirements.

If you’re unsure about the filing process, consulting a child support lawyer can be beneficial.

They can guide you through the paperwork and ensure all necessary information is included.

Court Proceedings and Hearings

Child support hearings typically take place before a Support Magistrate.

Both parents have the right to present evidence and testimony.

The Magistrate will consider factors such as each parent’s income, the child’s needs, and the amount of time each parent spends with the child.

During the hearing, you may need to provide financial documentation, including tax returns, pay stubs, and proof of expenses.

Be prepared to answer questions about your income and living situation.

If both parents agree on child support terms, the Magistrate can issue an order based on that agreement.

If there’s no agreement, the Magistrate will make a decision based on the evidence presented and New York’s child support guidelines.

You have the right to object to the Magistrate’s decision within a specific timeframe.

An experienced attorney can help you navigate this process if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Child support cases in New York involve complex legal and financial considerations.

Understanding the process, costs, and available resources can help you navigate these challenges more effectively.

What are the average costs associated with hiring a child support lawyer in New York?

The cost of hiring a child support lawyer in New York can vary widely.

Factors influencing fees include the lawyer’s experience, case complexity, and location within the state.

Some attorneys charge hourly rates, while others may offer flat fees for specific services.

Urban areas like New York City typically have higher legal fees compared to upstate regions.

You may expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 per hour for an experienced child support attorney in New York.

How is child support calculated for a non-custodial parent in New York State?

New York uses a specific formula to calculate child support payments.

The Child Support Standards Act sets percentage rates based on the number of children:

  • 17% for one child
  • 25% for two children
  • 29% for three children
  • 31% for four children

These percentages are applied to the combined parental income, with each parent responsible for their proportional share based on their individual income.

Is it necessary to have legal representation for child support cases in NY?

While not mandatory, having legal representation in child support cases is highly recommended.

An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, navigate complex legal procedures, and ensure fair treatment in court.

Child support lawyers can also assist in negotiating agreements, modifying existing orders, and addressing enforcement issues.

Their expertise can be invaluable in protecting your interests and those of your children.

Can child support be negotiated between parties in the state of New York?

Yes, child support can be negotiated between parties in New York.

Parents can agree on child support amounts outside of court, but any agreement must be approved by a judge to ensure it meets the child’s best interests.

Negotiated agreements can provide flexibility beyond the standard guidelines.

However, they must still adhere to the basic principles of New York’s child support laws.

What resources are available for individuals seeking free legal assistance with child support cases in New York?

Several resources offer free or low-cost legal assistance for child support cases in New York:

  • Legal Aid Society
  • New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG)
  • Her Justice (for women)
  • Pro Bono programs through local bar associations

These organizations often have income eligibility requirements and may have waiting lists due to high demand.

How do I find a reputable child support attorney in the boroughs of New York City?

To find a reputable child support attorney in New York City:

  1. Consult the New York State Bar Association’s referral service.
  2. Research online reviews and ratings for local attorneys.
  3. Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or other professionals.

You can consider attorneys like Lisa S. Cohen or Julia Vangorodska.

They specialize in family law and child support cases in New York City.

Schedule consultations with potential attorneys to discuss your case and assess their expertise and communication style.

Choose a lawyer who makes you feel comfortable and confident in their ability to represent your interests.