Can Single Dads Get Alimony on Long Island NY?

Can Single Dads Get Alimony on Long Island NY?

Can Single Dads Get Alimony on Long Island NY?

The number of households headed by single fathers has grown exponentially in the last couple of decades. In 1960, only about 1 percent of families had a single father, but that number more than quintupled to 8 percent in 2013 (Pew Research Center). In 2017, it rose to 16 percent  (Institute for Family Studies), and to 17 percent in 2020 (Gitnux). In 2022, as many as 20 percent of single-parent households were managed by fathers (U.S. Census).

At the same time, the poverty rate among single fathers is also very high. Spousal Support, otherwise known as alimony, was created to help a lesser-earning ex-spouse make financial ends meet until that time that they could support themselves. Traditionally, alimony was seen as a tool for single mothers. Now, with the rise in the numbers of fathers may have sacrificed their career to take a more active role in the raising of a couple’s children, New York state law entitles parents of any gender can get alimony on Long Island, NY. Achieving spousal support is always about demonstrating your needs and your spouse’s means, so it’s on you to make a good case to get alimony. Here’s what single fathers can do and where to get qualified legal help to ensure you receive the support you need.

Free New York Divorce Lawyer Consultation

Do I Have to Prove Paternity to Get Alimony?

Paternity doesn’t have anything to do with alimony; that’s child support. You can get spousal support on Long Island, NY even if you don’t have children. However, you’re likely to get more if you’re the parent primarily responsible for caring for the children of the marriage.

If you were married at the time your child was conceived and born, then New York law assumes that you are the father. You won’t need to prove paternity, but your spouse can request to disprove paternity if they think that you’re not the father.

If you weren’t married at the time your child was conceived or born, you will need to take a court-approved paternity test to establish your child’s parentage. Not just any test will do – you need to go through a specific process, usually with a dedicated laboratory, to provide the court with accurate and secure results.

How Single Dads Can Qualify for Alimony

Either spouse may qualify for alimony if they were the lesser earning spouse during the marriage. If you gave up a career or missed out on educational opportunities to stay home with the kids so your spouse could pursue a career, you may be entitled to financial support from your ex-spouse until you’re able to provide for yourself and your children.

To qualify, you must be able to show the following:

  • That you were legally married
  • How long the marriage lasted
  • The standard of living that was established during the marriage
  • Your age, physical and mental health, education, and employability
  • The age, physical and mental health, education, and employability of your spouse
  • Your earning capacity and ability to be self-supporting
  • Evidence of permanent disability if petitioning for ongoing support

Can I Get Alimony and Child Support?

Single parents – fathers or not – have a large burden on their shoulders when it comes to providing financially for their children. Food, housing, education, clothing, and social activities can be expensive, especially if you have more than one child. If you’re the primary caregiver for your kids, you may be able to get both alimony and child support.

Alimony is designed to “bridge the gap” between married life and being able to support yourself. Many spouses leave decades-long marriages with few earning opportunities because they had to stay home to raise the children.

Child support is intended to specifically meet the financial needs of children in your care. If you can prove to the court that you were married long enough to get spousal support and you are awarded primary physical custody, your spouse will most likely be required to pay both.

Single Fathers Can Get Legal Help with Alimony Today

At Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C., we offer comprehensive legal advocacy for single fathers who need an attorney’s help to fight for their family and their rights as a dad. We know how challenging the process of standing up to the legal system is as a single father, and we’re here to connect you to the resources you need to succeed.

Contact our team today to learn more about alimony for single fathers on Long Island or to book a free initial consultation to discuss your case. We’re standing by to assist you. Call now by dialing 631-923-1910 or send us a quick message using the form on this page and we’ll get back to you right away.

GET YOUR FREE CONSULTATION TODAY
Call 631-923-1910 or fill in the form below

Get your complimentary consultation and case evaluation with our experienced attorneys today.

Your attorney will describe the many options available and determine together which is the right solution for you. By the end of this  conversation, we’ll all understand how we can best help you to move forward.

No Cost or Obligation

There is no cost or obligation for this initial consultation. It is simply an opportunity for us to get to know each other, answer your questions and learn if Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. is right the right law firm for you. Give us a call at 631-923-1910 or fill in the short form below for your free consultation and case evaluation.

All Fields Are Required

* indicates required

About the Author

Robert E. Hornberger, Esq., Founding Partner, Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C.

  • Over 20 years practicing matrimonial law
  • Over 1,000 cases successfully resolved
  • Founder and Partner of Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C.
  • Experienced and compassionate Long Island Divorce Attorney, Family Law Attorney, and Divorce Mediator
  • Licensed to practice law in the State of New York
  • New York State Bar Association member
  • Nassau County Bar Association member
  • Suffolk County Bar Association member
  • “Super Lawyer” Metro Rising Star
  • Nominated Best of Long Island Divorce Attorney four consecutive years
  • Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee Contributor
  • Collaborative Law Association of New York – Former Director
  • Martindale Hubbell Distinguished Designation
  • America’s Most Honored Professionals – Top 5%
  • Lead Counsel Rated – Divorce Law
  • American Institute of Family Law Attorneys 10 Best
  • International Academy of Collaborative Professionals
  • Graduate of Hofstra University School of Law
  • Double Bachelor’s degrees in Philosophy, Politics & Law and History from SUNY Binghamton University

RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE BY:

10 Best Family Lawyers, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
Avvo rating 10.0
Super Lawyer Rising Stars
AVVO Client Reviews
Lead Counsel Rated Attorney
Avvo Client Choice Award Winner
Lead Counsel Rated Attorney
Martindale Hubbel Distinguished
Google Review of divorce longisland

Successful Divorce Strategies Free eBook
Child Support & Spousal Maintenance Tools
Spousal Maintenance Calculator
Child Support Calculator
Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. respects your right to privacy. We will never sell your information to any third party. Follow this link to read our full privacy policy.

How Courts Evaluate Fathers in Child Custody Cases in NY

How Courts Evaluate Fathers in Child Custody Cases in NY

How Courts Evaluate Fathers in Child Custody Cases in NY

Getting divorced is an emotional and stressful experience for all involved, but as a divorced or divorcing father you have special and unique concerns. One of the biggest issues for divorced dads on Long Island, NY are issues surrounding child custody and child support. It can be difficult to navigate the New York state legal system, especially when it comes to proving to the court that you’re a fit parent and that it would be in your child’s best interests to be in your care.

Here’s what you can expect during the child custody evaluation process and how to get qualified legal help when dissolving your marriage.

Free New York Divorce Lawyer Consultation

Child Custody Evaluations in NY Explained

Any time two parents separate, important decisions need to be made about who will be primarily responsible for the child and where the child will primarily live. New York courts consider the best interests of the child above all, so before awarding custody to one parent or the other, a judge will order a custody evaluation to assess which parent is the best fit for the child’s specific needs.

An evaluator then visits the parents’ homes and checks for specific things like:

#1. Your Physical & Mental Health

The court will want to make sure that you are physically and mentally capable of providing care to your child while they’re with you. They may ask several questions about your health history, your mental state, and any conditions that you were diagnosed with by a physician and the medications you may have been prescribed to treat those conditions.

The court will also assess if you have a history of violence of any kind, especially against vulnerable individuals like the elderly, animals, and children.

#2. The Location of Your Home

Where your home is located in relation to your child’s school and extracurricular activities is also a major consideration for where your child will stay during the school year. If you live far away from your child’s school and other events, courts may consider an alternative custody arrangement where your child stays with you primarily throughout the summer and with his or her mother during the school year. They stay with the parent located closest to their school so they can easily commute back and forth.

The court will also take note of the neighborhood that you live in and how safe the area is for children. You’ll need to have a reasonably clean home and show that you have enough space for your child to have an area of their own.

#3. How Much You Earn

The judge will also want to make sure that you are earning enough money to be able to provide for your child while they’re in your home. This is generally calculated after your familial financial responsibilities like alimony and child support.

If a judge determines that you don’t currently earn enough to provide stable housing for you to be considered for full custody, you may still be able to petition for joint custody and/or frequent visitation. The state of New York understands how important it is for children to maintain strong family bonds and generally only deny custody or visitation in situations where it would be harmful to the child.

#4. Your Work Schedule

How often you work, for what hours, and for how long are all things that will play a significant role in how child custody is determined. You will need to be able to show that you primarily work while your child is not at home and that you have the ability, as needed, to take time off for doctor’s appointments, extracurriculars, and just to spend quality time with your child.

If you are extremely busy with work or travel a lot, this could potentially have an impact on how a judge decides to allocate child custody and visitation time.

When To Contact an Experienced Long Island, NY Divorce Lawyer

If you are a divorcing father, don’t wait to get experienced legal help from a qualified Long Island NY, family lawyer. An attorney with vast experience in this area of the law can help you better prepare for the custody evaluation process and make any arguments against decisions that afford you less contact with your child.

At Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C., we have the skills and experience to provide you with comprehensive child custody and divorce representation. Contact us today for more information about what you can expect during a child custody evaluation or to schedule your free initial consultation to discuss your case. Call now at 631-923-1910 or complete our short online contact form and our legal team will be happy to get back to you as quickly as possible.

GET YOUR FREE CONSULTATION TODAY
Call 631-923-1910 or fill in the form below

Get your complimentary consultation and case evaluation with our experienced attorneys today.

Your attorney will describe the many options available and determine together which is the right solution for you. By the end of this  conversation, we’ll all understand how we can best help you to move forward.

No Cost or Obligation

There is no cost or obligation for this initial consultation. It is simply an opportunity for us to get to know each other, answer your questions and learn if Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. is right the right law firm for you. Give us a call at 631-923-1910 or fill in the short form below for your free consultation and case evaluation.

All Fields Are Required

* indicates required

About the Author

Robert E. Hornberger, Esq., Founding Partner, Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C.

  • Over 20 years practicing matrimonial law
  • Over 1,000 cases successfully resolved
  • Founder and Partner of Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C.
  • Experienced and compassionate Long Island Divorce Attorney, Family Law Attorney, and Divorce Mediator
  • Licensed to practice law in the State of New York
  • New York State Bar Association member
  • Nassau County Bar Association member
  • Suffolk County Bar Association member
  • “Super Lawyer” Metro Rising Star
  • Nominated Best of Long Island Divorce Attorney four consecutive years
  • Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee Contributor
  • Collaborative Law Association of New York – Former Director
  • Martindale Hubbell Distinguished Designation
  • America’s Most Honored Professionals – Top 5%
  • Lead Counsel Rated – Divorce Law
  • American Institute of Family Law Attorneys 10 Best
  • International Academy of Collaborative Professionals
  • Graduate of Hofstra University School of Law
  • Double Bachelor’s degrees in Philosophy, Politics & Law and History from SUNY Binghamton University

RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE BY:

10 Best Family Lawyers, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
Avvo rating 10.0
Super Lawyer Rising Stars
AVVO Client Reviews
Lead Counsel Rated Attorney
Avvo Client Choice Award Winner
Lead Counsel Rated Attorney
Martindale Hubbel Distinguished
Google Review of divorce longisland

Successful Divorce Strategies Free eBook
Child Support & Spousal Maintenance Tools
Spousal Maintenance Calculator
Child Support Calculator
Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. respects your right to privacy. We will never sell your information to any third party. Follow this link to read our full privacy policy.

Top Financial Tips for Divorced Dads in NY

Top Financial Tips for Divorced Dads in NY

Top Financial Tips for Divorced Dads in NY

Managing money after a divorce can be incredibly challenging, especially for dads on Long Island, NY. If you’re a divorced dad, here are some tips to help divorcing fathers get control over their finances and how Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. can help.

Free New York Divorce Lawyer Consultation

Cut The Expenses You Can

When you’re living on your own as a single father after a divorce, you’ll be financially responsible for your household expenses, food, and transportation. If you’re paying alimony or child support – or likely even both – you’ll need to include those costs too. All this adds up and can leave newly single dads on Long Island, NY without enough resources to make ends meet.

See what expenses you can cut. Start with the obvious, like cooking at home instead of dining out, buying off brand items when it doesn’t really matter. Then move on to more dramatic reductions, like selling your car and switching to public transportation. This can save you on car payments, fuel, maintenance and even insurance. This helps the money you do have go further.

Look For Ways to Get Extra Money

If possible, it’s also a good idea to try to add money to your income. This can be done a few different ways, like working a second job or completing odd jobs for people around your community.

You may even be able to apply for state benefits that give you money for food, housing, and childcare, so you can spend your own funds on things the state won’t cover, like furniture, clothing, school supplies, etc.

Make Your New Budget Work for You

Once you’ve eliminated excess spending and started to bring in new revenue, it’s time to see how much you’re working with and what expenses are going out on a regular basis.

Make a budget that you can follow with different spending categories for things like gas, groceries, and insurance. Include both fixed and variable expenses, so you know exactly what needs to come out of your account every month. If you’re making more than you spend, be sure to put some of your money back in savings.

Save For Emergencies & Retirement

If you have flexibility with your income, try to save some money back to cover emergencies if they come up and for your retirement. When you no longer have a spouse that contributes to your retirement, it’s up to you to calculate how much you’ll need to retire comfortably and how much you should save per week or month to get there.

Make sure you’re prioritizing setting this aside – it can be hard to do when you’re on such a tight budget, but divorced dads have limited time with which they can establish a healthy enough retirement fund to support them in their later years.

Get Rid of Any Debt You Can

Finally, it’s important to take care of any debts that you owe. This includes both debts that are in your name only as well as debts that you and your spouse have together. If you have a joint debt that your spouse stops paying, it will still have a negative effect on your credit until it’s paid.

Creditors and lenders don’t change the responsible parties on debts after a divorce, so both people listed are still subject to collection action for as long as the money is owed.

It may be frustrating to be the one making the payments that your spouse agreed to make, but if you don’t, you’re hurting your financial future. It’s better to pay off the debt you have and avoid taking out new debts if possible. If you do, make sure they’re only in your name and not another joint debt.

Talk To a Qualified Long Island, NY Divorce Lawyer

One of the most important things you can do as soon as you know you’re going to get a divorce is to talk to an experienced Long Island, NY divorce lawyer. You can even book a free consultation if you only suspect your spouse wants a divorce or if you’re considering divorce yourself.

At Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C., we have extensive experience representing fathers in their family legal cases and we can help you navigate the many challenges of ending your marriage. Contact our office today to schedule a time to speak with one of our veteran New York divorce attorneys by calling 631-923-1910 or fill in the short form on this page and we’ll get back to you to schedule your free case evaluation.

GET YOUR FREE CONSULTATION TODAY
Call 631-923-1910 or fill in the form below

Get your complimentary consultation and case evaluation with our experienced attorneys today.

Your attorney will describe the many options available and determine together which is the right solution for you. By the end of this  conversation, we’ll all understand how we can best help you to move forward.

No Cost or Obligation

There is no cost or obligation for this initial consultation. It is simply an opportunity for us to get to know each other, answer your questions and learn if Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. is right the right law firm for you. Give us a call at 631-923-1910 or fill in the short form below for your free consultation and case evaluation.

All Fields Are Required

* indicates required

About the Author

Robert E. Hornberger, Esq., Founding Partner, Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C.

  • Over 20 years practicing matrimonial law
  • Over 1,000 cases successfully resolved
  • Founder and Partner of Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C.
  • Experienced and compassionate Long Island Divorce Attorney, Family Law Attorney, and Divorce Mediator
  • Licensed to practice law in the State of New York
  • New York State Bar Association member
  • Nassau County Bar Association member
  • Suffolk County Bar Association member
  • “Super Lawyer” Metro Rising Star
  • Nominated Best of Long Island Divorce Attorney four consecutive years
  • Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee Contributor
  • Collaborative Law Association of New York – Former Director
  • Martindale Hubbell Distinguished Designation
  • America’s Most Honored Professionals – Top 5%
  • Lead Counsel Rated – Divorce Law
  • American Institute of Family Law Attorneys 10 Best
  • International Academy of Collaborative Professionals
  • Graduate of Hofstra University School of Law
  • Double Bachelor’s degrees in Philosophy, Politics & Law and History from SUNY Binghamton University

RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE BY:

10 Best Family Lawyers, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
Avvo rating 10.0
Super Lawyer Rising Stars
AVVO Client Reviews
Lead Counsel Rated Attorney
Avvo Client Choice Award Winner
Lead Counsel Rated Attorney
Martindale Hubbel Distinguished
Google Review of divorce longisland

Successful Divorce Strategies Free eBook
Child Support & Spousal Maintenance Tools
Spousal Maintenance Calculator
Child Support Calculator
Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. respects your right to privacy. We will never sell your information to any third party. Follow this link to read our full privacy policy.

The Top Financial Problems Men Face in Divorce in NY

The Top Financial Problems Men Face in Divorce in NY

The Top Financial Problems Men Face in Divorce in NY

When it comes to divorce, there are often many financial problems that parties on both sides face. However, with men often (but not always) being the primary family breadwinners, they often incur more financial consequences when it comes to equitable distribution, child support, spousal support, and legal fees.

As a result, men often experience a reduced quality of life after divorce than they had before. Here’s what to know about the top financial problems men face when leaving their spouses and how a Long Island, NY divorce attorney can help you protect your assets.

Free New York Divorce Lawyer Consultation

Equitable Distribution Often Does Not Favor Men

Arguably, the biggest financial issue men face when leaving a marriage is the division of the couple’s assets and debts. This can be a very contentious issue, with both sides fighting for what they feel is fair.

Unfortunately, in many cases, men are often left with more debt than their spouses, or with less valuable assets. This can be a major financial setback, especially if you were counting on those assets to help support you after the divorce.

Men Often Have to Pay Alimony or Spousal Support

Another problem men face during divorce is being ordered to pay alimony. Spousal maintenance is often awarded to the spouse who earned less money or who stayed home to care for the children while the other spouse worked. If you are ordered to pay alimony, this can be a significant financial burden.

You may have to make sacrifices in your own budget to meet these obligations and in some cases, the support you are ordered to pay can be so high that it becomes difficult to make ends meet for yourself.

Men Often Have to Pay Child Support

Men who have children and get divorced incur another financial obligation that can be costly. How much child support a non-custodial parent has to pay is usually based on a percentage of their income, but many men find what’s left over difficult to live on.

Child support payments can be very expensive, especially if you have multiple children. Additionally, child support payments are often not tax-deductible. This means that you will have to pay taxes on the money you pay for child support, even though it won’t count as income.

Men Often Have to Pay Legal Expenses for Both Parties

Legal expenses are another financial issue that tends to disproportionately affect men who are getting a divorce. Dissolving a marriage can be very expensive, even if you use an affordable attorney. You may also have to pay other legal costs, such as filing fees or court costs. Furthermore, if you and your spouse cannot agree on all aspects of your divorce, you may have to go to trial, which can add even more expense to an already costly process.

How Divorce Impacts Men Financially

There are many other ways that getting a divorce impacts men financially, particularly once the process of dissolving the marriage is complete. Men who are going through a divorce often see a significant decrease in their income and experience a lower standard of living.

This is largely because they are no longer sharing expenses with their spouse and may also have to pay alimony and child support. As a result, many men find it difficult to meet all of their financial obligations.

Divorce can also lead to late payments on bills and other debts, making it difficult to obtain loans or credit cards. With higher expenses and lower income after a divorce, non-essential expenses like past medical bills and credit card debt may go without payment. This lowers your credit score and makes it hard to rebuild.

How To Protect Your Finances in a Long Island, NY Divorce

It’s important to be honest about your assets during a Long Island, NY divorce. Hiding assets can have serious consequences, including jail time. If you’re caught hiding assets, the court may order you to pay your spouse’s attorney fees and other legal expenses. Additionally, it can damage your credibility in court and make it more difficult to negotiate a fair settlement.

It’s also imperative that you begin working with a qualified and experienced Long Island, NY divorce attorney as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complex financial issues involved in a divorce and protect your interests long term. Contact Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. today for more information or to book a free case consultation by calling 631-923-1910 or fill out the short form on this page

 

GET YOUR FREE CONSULTATION TODAY
Call 631-923-1910 or fill in the form below

Horberger Verbitsky, P.C. partners Robert E. Hornberger, Esq. and Christine M. Verbitsky, Esq.

Horberger Verbitsky, P.C. partners Robert E. Hornberger, Esq. and Christine M. Verbitsky, Esq.

Get your complimentary consultation and case evaluation with our experienced attorneys today.

Your attorney will describe the many options available and determine together which is the right solution for you. By the end of this  conversation, we’ll all understand how we can best help you to move forward.

No Cost or Obligation

There is no cost or obligation for this initial consultation. It is simply an opportunity for us to get to know each other, answer your questions and learn if Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. is right the right law firm for you. Give us a call at 631-923-1910 or fill in the short form below for your free consultation and case evaluation.

All Fields Are Required

About the Author

Robert E. Hornberger, Esq., Founding Partner, Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C.

  • Over 20 years practicing matrimonial law
  • Over 1,000 cases successfully resolved
  • Founder and Partner of Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C.
  • Experienced and compassionate Long Island Divorce Attorney, Family Law Attorney, and Divorce Mediator
  • Licensed to practice law in the State of New York
  • New York State Bar Association member
  • Nassau County Bar Association member
  • Suffolk County Bar Association member
  • “Super Lawyer” Metro Rising Star
  • Nominated Best of Long Island Divorce Attorney four consecutive years
  • Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee Contributor
  • Collaborative Law Association of New York – Former Director
  • Martindale Hubbell Distinguished Designation
  • America’s Most Honored Professionals – Top 5%
  • Lead Counsel Rated – Divorce Law
  • American Institute of Family Law Attorneys 10 Best
  • International Academy of Collaborative Professionals
  • Graduate of Hofstra University School of Law
  • Double Bachelor’s degrees in Philosophy, Politics & Law and History from SUNY Binghamton University

RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE BY:

10 Best Family Lawyers, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
Avvo rating 10.0
Super Lawyer Rising Stars
AVVO Client Reviews
Lead Counsel Rated Attorney
Avvo Client Choice Award Winner
Lead Counsel Rated Attorney
Martindale Hubbel Distinguished
Google Review of divorce longisland

Successful Divorce Strategies Free eBook
Child Support & Spousal Maintenance Tools
Spousal Maintenance Calculator
Child Support Calculator
Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. respects your right to privacy. We will never sell your information to any third party. Follow this link to read our full privacy policy.

Single Fathers: How To Protect Your Relationship with Your Kids

Single Fathers: How To Protect Your Relationship with Your Kids

Single Fathers: How To Protect Your Relationship with Your Kids

No child should have to choose between their parents, but sadly, some exes often make this the reality in cases of divorce or separation. Parental alienation occurs when one parent attempts to undermine the relationship between the child and their other parent. This can take many forms, from disparaging comments about the other parent to outright refusal to allow contact.

Parental alienation can be extremely difficult and profoundly impactful on children. It can damage their relationship with both parents and cause them significant psychological distress. It can also lead to problems in school and social settings.

If you’re a single father on Long Island who is dealing with parental alienation, you may feel helpless and alone. But there are steps you can take to fight back against this destructive behavior. Keep reading to learn more.

Free New York Divorce Lawyer Consultation

The Negative Impact of Parental Alienation on Children

Effects On the Father-Child Relationship

The effect of parental alienation on the father-child relationship can be profound and long-lasting. When a child is alienated from a parent, they often experience feelings of guilt, shame, and confusion. This can lead to a rift in the relationship that may be difficult to repair. Additionally, the child may struggle with trust issues and have difficulty forming future relationships, particularly with men, even as an adult.

Consequences of Parental Alienation

The consequences of parental alienation can be far-reaching and devastating. In some cases, it can result in the complete estrangement of a child from a parent. This can cause tremendous emotional pain and suffering for both the child and the parent involved. Additionally, it can interfere with the development of a healthy parent-child relationship and lead to behavioral problems and mental illnesses like depression and anxiety.

Signs of Parental Alienation

Undermining the Alienated Parent’s Authority

Parental alienation typically involves one parent systematically undermining the authority of the other parent in the eyes of their child. The goal is to make the child feel that they cannot trust or respect the targeted parent, and that they would be better off without them in their life.

Parents who do this may:

  • Badmouth the targeted parent in front of the child
  • Tell the child that their other parent doesn’t really love or care about them
  • Make false allegations of abuse against the targeted parent
  • Refuse to let the child see or speak to the targeted parent
  • Tell the child that the targeted parent is not really their mother or father

Disparagement of the Alienated Parent

In addition to undermining the authority of the alienated parent, it can also involve actively disparaging them in front of their child. The goal is to make the child see their other parent as someone who is unworthy of their love and respect.

For example, the ex might start:

  • Calling the alienated parent names
  • Telling lies about them to their child
  • Making false claims about their character or parenting abilities
  • Telling stories that paint them in a negative light

Parentification of the Child

In some cases of parental alienation, one parent will try to turn their children into mini-adults by giving them adult responsibilities or involving them in adult problems. This can have a number of negative effects on children, including:

  • Feeling like they need to choose only one parent or choose “sides” in arguments
  • Feeling like they need to take care of one or both parents
  • Feeling overwhelmed and stressed by the adult responsibility placed on them
  • Becoming withdrawn and depressed

How to Fight Parental Alienation on Long Island

It’s important for fathers to understand that they have rights when it comes to their children, even if they are not married to the child’s mother. In New York, fathers have the right to petition for custody and visitation of their children. If you are facing parental alienation, it is important to assert your rights in court and make it clear to the judge that you are an active and involved parent in your child’s life.

If you suspect that your ex is engaging in parental alienation, it is important to take action to protect your relationship with your child. The attorneys at Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. have extensive experience handling these types of cases and can help you protect your relationship with your child. Contact us today at 631-923-1910 or fill in the short form below to learn more about how we can help you fight parental alienation on Long Island.

GET YOUR FREE CONSULTATION TODAY
Call 631-923-1910 or fill in the form below

Horberger Verbitsky, P.C. partners Robert E. Hornberger, Esq. and Christine M. Verbitsky, Esq.

Horberger Verbitsky, P.C. partners Robert E. Hornberger, Esq. and Christine M. Verbitsky, Esq.

Get your complimentary consultation and case evaluation with our experienced attorneys today.

Your attorney will describe the many options available and determine together which is the right solution for you. By the end of this  conversation, we’ll all understand how we can best help you to move forward.

No Cost or Obligation

There is no cost or obligation for this initial consultation. It is simply an opportunity for us to get to know each other, answer your questions and learn if Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. is right the right law firm for you. Give us a call at 631-923-1910 or fill in the short form below for your free consultation and case evaluation.

All Fields Are Required

RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE BY:

10 Best Family Lawyers, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
Avvo rating 10.0
Super Lawyer Rising Stars
AVVO Client Reviews
Lead Counsel Rated Attorney
Avvo Client Choice Award Winner
Lead Counsel Rated Attorney
Martindale Hubbel Distinguished
Google Review of divorce longisland

Successful Divorce Strategies Free eBook
Child Support & Spousal Maintenance Tools
Spousal Maintenance Calculator
Child Support Calculator
Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. respects your right to privacy. We will never sell your information to any third party. Follow this link to read our full privacy policy.

How Long Island Divorce Can Be Hardest on Men

How Long Island Divorce Can Be Hardest on Men

How Long Island Divorce Can Be Hardest on Men

 

How Long Island Divorce Can Be Hardest on Men

No matter what side of the fence you are on, getting a divorce is difficult at best. The process can be frustrating, time-consuming, emotional and lonely for both parties. But contrary to popular belief, divorce may be more challenging for men in the relationship than women. Women often have more support around them during and after a divorce, while men frequently travel the path alone.

Men tend to struggle more with the end of their marriage than women do, aside from circumstances involving alimony or spousal support. They are often lonelier, more depressed, and struggle more with finding value in single life. Here’s why and how to get help from a veteran Long Island divorce attorney.

(more…)

Can a Father Win Sole Child Custody on Long Island?

Can a Father Win Sole Child Custody on Long Island?

Can a Father Win Sole Child Custody on Long Island?

Although it is normally preferred that parents split custody, there are several circumstances in which family courts may give sole custody to only one parent. Furthermore, judges are not allowed to express any bias toward either parent, so if you can demonstrate that you are the superior parent and/or your child is in danger when with their other parent, you may be able to acquire permanent full custody.

Nevertheless, if the child’s mother also intends to fight for sole custody, you need to prepare yourself for a difficult child custody dispute. Here’s what you should know about full custody for fathers on Long Island and how to get the help of an experienced family lawyer when you need it most.

(more…)

How to Live at Home During a Long Island Divorce

How to Live at Home During a Long Island Divorce

How to Live at Home During a Long Island Divorce

Moving out of the marital home during your Long Island divorce can potentially create more problems than it solves. New York family courts are more likely to award the marital home to whoever has been living in it; if you haven’t, you stand a greater chance of losing your home or your stake in its value. If you have children, moving out essentially grants you’re spouse the primary caregiver role for your children. This can have significant repercussions when deciding on child custody and visitation issues. See this article for a more comprehensive discussion of the many reasons you shouldn’t move out before your divorce is final.

Here are some practical tips for living at home during your divorce and how to get help from a seasoned lawyer.

(more…)

Why You Shouldn’t Move Out Before Your Divorce is Final

Why You Shouldn’t Move Out Before Your Divorce is Final

Why You Shouldn’t Move Out Before Your Divorce is Final

When you decide to get a divorce, moving out of your marital home seems like the logical next step. However, this is likely to hurt you more than it will help you. It won’t necessarily make your divorce easier, nor is it necessarily in the best interests of you or your children.

Here’s why you should think again before packing up after filing for a divorce, and how to get the legal advocacy you need as you end your marriage.

 

(more…)

How Do Men Grieve Divorce on Long Island?

How Do Men Grieve Divorce on Long Island?

How Do Men Grieve Divorce on Long Island?

Whether you’ve had your spouse served with divorce papers or your spouse has told you they want to end the marriage, a divorce is a devastating and gut-wrenching experience. Naturally, you’ll experience many emotions that often conflict with each other or change rapidly from day to day or even hour to hour. Just like when you lose a loved one, you’ll go through the stages of grieving the loss of your marriage and the future you had planned for yourself.

Here’s what men, especially single fathers, need to know about grieving a divorce and how to get experienced legal help you can trust.

 

(more…)