New York Divorce Report - New York's Divorce and Family Law Blog

A non-custodial parent is not stripped of his parental authority simply because he is not empowered to make decisions regarding the health, education and welfare of his children ruled an Albany County Family Court judge. Judge W. Dennis Duggan dismissed a contempt proceeding, against a non-custodial father who had changed the dosage of his fifteen-year-old daughter's medication during his parenting time. The father, a doctor, believed that his daughter’s prescription was inappropriate. Judge Duggan stated that "While it is the general principle that the custodial parent possesses the sole authority to make medical decisions for her child, this does not... More

I have been following the continuing saga of who will get custody of Michael Jackson’s children. I even had the privilege of appearing on ABC World News to add my thoughts to the other talking heads theorizing about what may occur in this real life custody drama. The more I hear and read, the more disturbing the case becomes. As in all custody cases, the custody award will be based upon the best interests of the children. In most cases between a parent and a third person, it is presumed that it would be in the best interests of the... More

In the spirit of the upcoming holidays, Newsweek offers guidance to divorced parents on how to make the holidays better for their children. Admittedly, the holidays are the most difficult and painful times for families broken apart by divorce. Both parents want to maximize their time with their children. Even the best intentioned parent may be tempted to play the game of one-upmanship by giving bigger and more expensive gifts to the children in an attempt to buy their love. All of this leads to increased stress and conflict at a time that should be joyous. But, there are things... More

Divorce, visitation and holidays-three things, that when combined, raise divorced parents’ blood pressure and put a lot of stress on their children. There are some things you can do to  make the holidays a little more bearable. The Divorce Law Journal highlights ten tips to help children enjoy the holidays: Give your children permission to love the other parent. Help your child make a card for Dad or buy a gift for Mom. Encourage them to call the other parent. Set realistic expectations. To divide or share a holiday, each parent will have only half as much time with the... More