Child Support & Custody

Westchester Child Support Attorney

Westchester County Child Support & Custody Lawyer

Handling Child Support and Child Custody Cases for Over 20 Years

For qualified and compassionate representation in child support and child custody matters, turn to the law office of Jessica Bacal, Esq., PC, in Westchester, New York. Attorney Jessica Bacal has over 20 years of experience handling a wide range of family law matters, including divorce, child support and child custody. To set up an appointment with an experienced lawyer, e-mail or call the office at 914-767-9290.

Child Support

New York uses a statutory formula to calculate the amount of child support a parent owes. The calculations take into account not only the income of both parents but also the custody arrangements, how much time a parent has with a child, how many children there are, prior marriages, and other factors, such as health care and child care costs.

Child Custody

Parents frequently argue over the custody of their children. Whether a couple is divorcing or has never been married, it is important to keep the best interests of the children in mind when creating custody and parental access arrangements. There are a variety of types of custody that attorney Jessica Bacal can discuss with clients, including:

  • Sole legal custody
  • Joint legal custody
  • Physical custody
  • Visitation and Access Schedules

Modification of Child Custody and Child Support Orders

Any time a parent experiences a drastic change in circumstances, it may be necessary to modify existing child support orders. A loss of a job, for example, may necessitate a modification petition. If custody is at issue, informal custodial arrangements are not recommended, particularly since school officials generally require proof of an order of custody before enrolling a child in the district. Modifications must go through proper legal channels in order to be enforceable.

Relocation

If a custodial parent wishes to move out of state with a child, modification to the child custody order generally is necessary. There are strict guidelines that govern how relocations are handled, including how far a parent can move without the consent of the other parent.

To schedule an appointment for a confidential consultation with an experienced divorce and family law lawyer, contact the firm by e-mail or telephone (914-767-9290). The office is open during regular business hours, with evening and weekend consultations available by appointment.

Located just a few blocks from the Metro North train station in downtown Mt. Kisco, the office is situated at 61 Smith Avenue in a charming Victorian home converted to office space, near the Northern Westchester Hospital Center, with ample parking behind the building.