Legal Authority to Make Decisions
and Physical Parenting Time
In New York, there are two types of child custody:
legal custody and physical custody.
Legal custody relates to the decision-making authority over a child's education, healthcare, religion, and other major
life matters. Parents may share legal custody (joint), or one parent may be granted sole legal authority when
cooperation is not possible or in the child's best interests.
Physical custody is related to the child's primary residence. The number of overnights typically measures parenting time over a
two-week period. The parent with the majority of overnights is considered the custodial parent. Equal time-sharing
arrangements are possible but must be clearly structured and justified, particularly in the event of disputes.
Custody arrangements affect not only your relationship with your child but also child support obligations and
other financial implications. These matters require careful legal and strategic consideration.
Common Signs of Resist and Refuse Dynamics Include
These cases are among the most complex in family law. They often require the involvement of forensic custody evaluators,
child psychologists, and court-ordered therapeutic intervention
- A child expressing disproportionate fear, anger, or resistance toward one parent
- One parent encouraging the child to see the other as unsafe, irresponsible, or unnecessary
- Sudden and unexplained breakdowns in previously healthy parent-child relationships
At Bikel Rosenthal & Schanfield, we are experienced in identifying and litigating these issues, whether your child is rejecting you or falsely accused of alienation.
Child Support in Complex Financial Cases
New York applies a statutory formula to calculate basic child support. Still, in high-conflict cases, especially those involving business
ownership, fluctuating income, or international assets, the standard guidelines often fall short of providing adequate protection.
Our New York custody lawyers at Bikel Rosenthal & Schanfield are experienced in handling support disputes involving:
- Complex income streams
- Undisclosed or underreported income
- High educational or medical needs for children
- Disputes over what constitutes "reasonable" expenses
We work with financial experts to ensure accurate income assessments and advocate for support arrangements that are both fair and sustainable.
When Cooperation Breaks Down
Most courts encourage parents to reach custody and support agreements outside the courtroom.
However, in high-conflict situations, that may not be realistic.
When the other parent is unwilling to act in good faith, you may be facing:
- Refusal to pay or unreasonable demands for child support
- Persistent violations of court orders
- Media involvement or reputational harm
- Fabricated allegations of abuse or neglect
- Emotional manipulation of the child
- Attempts to relocate the child without consent
We are fully prepared to handle contested trials and emergency motions. Our custody attorneys at Bikel Rosenthal & Schanfield have successfully litigated cases involving relocation, international custody under the Hague Convention, and false allegations used as leverage in custody disputes
Handling Complex and
Public Disputes
Our team has represented clients in some of New York's most complex and visible family law matters.
Whether your case involves significant media attention, powerful opposing counsel, or sensitive
personal matters that require discretion, we provide experienced, strategic advocacy.
We take steps early in the process to manage both legal risk and public exposure. For clients whose cases intersect with business interests, corporate image, or public perception, we work closely with PR teams and outside advisors as needed.
Protecting Your Relationship
with Your Child
When custody issues escalate, you may feel like you're losing control, not just of your legal rights, but of your
relationship with your child. Whether you're facing alienation, false claims, or obstructed parenting time,
we help you regain stability and protect your role in your child's life.
We approach these cases with both urgency and care. Our goal is not only to resolve the legal dispute but also to safeguard the long-term well-being of the family.
Speak with a NY Family
Law Attorney
Our team draws on decades of experience to take complex divorce cases head-on.
If you are involved in a high-conflict custody or divorce case, don't wait until the situation escalates further.
We bring decades of courtroom experience, a deep understanding of the psychological and financial issues involved,
and a commitment to clear, strategic guidance every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our
experienced New York custody and divorce trial attorneys.