Buffalo Fathers’ Rights Attorneys Stand Up for You

Delivering strategic legal support to divorced and unmarried NY fathers 

As a caring father, you want to be a strong part of your children’s lives, even after divorce or separation. We want to help you do so. At the Law Offices of Randy S. Margulis in Buffalo, our experienced attorneys advocate for fathers to get fair outcomes in decisions on child custody, visitation/parenting time and child support. For more than three decades our New York family law firm has ensured that the parental rights of divorcing and unmarried fathers are protected. 

What are my parental rights as a father? 

The law in New York is gender neutral. As a father, you have the same parental rights as your child’s mother (assuming paternity was established if unmarried). You have the right to seek legal custody, which when granted will allow you to make medical, educational and religious decisions for your child. You have the right to physical custody or meaningful visitation if you are not the custodial parent. Our attorneys will ensure that your rights are considered equally with those of your child’s mother. 

How are custody and visitation decisions made? 

Custody and visitation can be decided between parents and captured in a parenting agreement. If you can’t agree, a New York judge will decide for you after reviewing numerous factors set by law for determining the best interests of the child factors. Our lawyers can help negotiate an agreement with the other parent, or represent you in court if settlement cannot be reached. 

Why should I work with a fathers’ rights lawyer? 

Years ago mothers were often given preference in child custody decisions because they were typically the main caregivers. Although New York law now provides for treating both parents equally, sometimes unconscious bias from past societal norms can lead to the courts favoring mothers over fathers. As lawyers determinedly focused on fathers’ rights, we understand the challenges fathers can face in getting fair consideration by the courts. We will make the strongest case possible for a favorable custody outcome based strictly on the merits and not on dated prejudices. 

Legal strategies to get the most favorable results

You can help yourself get an advantageous result by showing the court that you are actively involved in your child’s life, that you are financially responsible and that you put your child’s best interests first. Our attorneys will develop an evidence-based argument addressing the criteria judges review to determine custody. Whether you are granted joint or sole legal and physical custody, we will advocate for the best arrangement to foster bonds with your child. 

Can an existing custody or support order be changed? 

Child custody, visitation and support orders can be modified if you, the mother or the child have a significant change in circumstances, such as the following:

• Parental relocation
• Job loss or changing financial situation
• Changes in the child’s needs
• Remarriage of a parent
• Abuse or neglect

If you are seeking to change an existing court order, we will assist you in building a compelling case for modification. If the child’s mother requests a modification that you dispute, we will assert the strongest defense possible. The judge will hears arguments from both sides and then decide whether the modification is in the child’s best interests. 

Contact our experienced fathers’ rights lawyers for help

At the Law Offices of Randy S. Margulis in Buffalo, our skillful attorneys stand up vigorously for the rights of New York fathers in custody, visitation and child support decisions. Call 716-886-9600 or contact us online to schedule a time to speak with a father’s rights lawyer.