Child custody is a complex legal field that reaches far beyond divorce law. There are a number of reasons why a court may rule that a parent is unfit to raise a child, such as a history of drug abuse or negligent behavior.
If you are involved in a custody battle or are considering divorce, you probably want to know as much as possible about child custody laws. At The Law Office of Elliot Green, we will address any questions or concerns you have about custody rulings. Visit one of our offices serving Queens and Staten Island, or schedule a consultation by calling us at 718-260-8668.
Woman Loses Custody of Child Due to Negligence
In a dramatic case reported by the Sun Sentinel, a family is fighting for custody of a young baby after police discovered him in the trunk of a vehicle. The 5-month-old baby boy was found in the trunk lying among various hazardous materials and potentially life-threatening objects, including garden shears and plastic bags.
Police had been following the vehicle for a few miles after observing a broken headlight. Offers discovered the baby after stopping and searching the vehicle.
The mother of the child was immediately arrested, and the baby was taken into protective custody. At this stage, police say either the baby’s father or great-grandmother will likely be given custody of the child, pending an inspection of each of their homes and personal situations.
Celebrity Custody Claim Plays out in National Media
Every divorce is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all system for determining child custody. In some cases, both spouses are fit parents with the child’s best interests at heart, but what happens when one parent wants sole custody?
That seems to be the situation in a high-profile child custody case that is currently playing out in the national media. The divorce between Wiz Khalifa and Amber Rose has raised questions about who will retain legal custody of their 1-year-old child. According to CNN, the celebrity couple has filed for divorce citing irreconcilable differences.
They are now awaiting the outcome of the custody hearing. The famous model, actress and singer reportedly is seeking full custody but is willing to provide Wiz visitation rights, according to the divorce papers.
Can I Modify a Child Custody Agreement?
Many divorcees want to know if it is possible to modify a child custody agreement. In New York, while possible, the modification of orders involving custody is a very complicated task. There are, however, certain circumstances in which modification is an option:
- Child or parent has substantially changed since establishing the custody order
- Child of 12 years old or older makes a request
- Proof of abandonment
- Proof of neglect or abuse
If you want to learn more about your rights regarding child custody, The Law Office of Elliot Green is here to help. Call us today at 718-260-8668 for a free 30-minute consultation.
