Child custody is often the most challenging issue for divorcing and unwed couples. At Aiello & DiFalco LLP, we help parents work through custody matters with clarity, compassion, and a focus on long-term stability.
Whether you’re facing a complicated custody dispute or trying to build a fair parenting plan, we’re here to protect your rights and advocate for what’s best for your child. Let us help you create a plan that works for your family. Contact our Garden City office today to get started.
Understanding Child Custody and Parenting Time in New York
In New York, child custody includes two main parts:
- Physical custody (also called residential custody) determines where your child will live.
- Legal custody gives a parent the authority to make major decisions about the child’s health, education, and overall welfare.
Sole custody means one parent makes decisions, but it doesn’t always limit the other parent’s visitation rights. Joint custody requires parents to consult with each other before making significant decisions.
Parenting time—formerly called visitation—is the schedule that outlines when each parent spends time with the child. This includes weekdays, alternating weekends, holidays, and school breaks.
In many cases, courts favor joint legal custody with liberal parenting time. But when agreements can’t be reached, we’re ready to represent your interests and fight for an outcome that supports your child.
How Courts Decide: The Best Interests of the Child
When courts in Nassau County—and across New York—decide custody and parenting time, everything centers on one thing: your child’s best interests. Judges weigh several factors to determine what kind of arrangement will provide the most stable, supportive environment. These include:
- Each parent’s ability to provide for the child’s emotional and physical needs
- The quality of each parent’s relationship with the child
- Whether there’s a history of domestic violence or substance abuse
- The child’s preferences, depending on their age and maturity
At Aiello & DiFalco LLP, we work with you to present a clear picture of what’s best for your child. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we’ll advocate for a parenting arrangement that reflects your child’s needs and your family’s values.
Common Custody Issues Hicksville Families Face
Every custody case is different, but many parents in Hicksville share similar challenges when trying to build parenting plans that work in real life. We often help clients address:
- Transitions between two homes across school zones
- Balancing parenting time with demanding work schedules or shift work
- Religious or cultural differences in child-rearing
- Tensions around introducing new partners
- Travel logistics for extracurriculars, holidays, or summer plans
Whether you’re in a high-conflict situation or simply want to make sure your agreement covers all the bases, we’ll work with you to create a plan that supports your child’s well-being and gives both parents clarity. When disputes arise, we’re prepared to advocate for your position while staying focused on practical, child-centered outcomes.
When a Custody Order No Longer Fits
Life doesn’t stay the same, and custody orders sometimes need to change, too. If you’re a parent in Hicksville facing a shift in circumstances, we can help you request a modification through the courts.
You may be eligible for a change if:
- One parent is relocating
- There’s been a major change in work schedule or income
- Your child’s needs or preferences have evolved
- There are concerns about safety, health, or stability in either home
To modify an order, you must show a significant change in circumstances that affects your child’s well-being. We’ll help you gather the proper documentation, present your case, and work toward a new arrangement that reflects your current reality.
Why Choose Aiello & DiFalco?
Custody cases aren’t just about legal rights—they’re about protecting what matters most. At Aiello & DiFalco LLP, we bring decades of family law experience to every case, along with a reputation for responsive, thoughtful representation.
Families in Hicksville and throughout Nassau County trust us because:
- We know how local courts handle custody disputes
- We offer both mediation and litigation strategies
- We give each client personalized, attorney-level attention
When you work with us, you won’t feel like a case file. You’ll feel supported.
Helping Families in Hicksville With Child Custody Issues
If you’re dealing with a child custody issue in Hicksville, trust Aiello & DiFalco to guide you, advocate for you, and help you protect your child’s future. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation. Let’s take the next step together.