BFS 

Steven E. Shumer, ESQ.   

Call Today:   800-806-1136

Custody

Parenting Time

Child Support

Maintenance

Annulments

Orders of Protection

Paternity
Equitable Distribution of Assets
Pre-Nuptial Agreements
Post-Judgment Actions/Motions
Divorce

Mediation

Marital Practice

Nassau County Office
6901 Jericho Turnpike
Syosset, NY 11791
Suite 230

Suffolk County Office
2100 Middle Country Road 
Centereach, NY 11720
Suite 203c

Suffolk County Office
136 East Main Street
East Islip, NY 11730

Queens
118-35 Queens Blvd.
Forest Hills, NY 11375

Family Law​
"Family Law" is the broad term for a number of varying procedures associated with marital, and out-of-wedlock relationships.  This area of law often requires the sensitive guidance of an experienced firm to lead you through the many pitfalls associated with the unique aspects of the Family Court experience, from the submission of the initial petition, to responding papers, to the conducting of hearings.  Albeit that individuals can represent their own interests in Family Court, being represented by an attorney can often ease the confusion and stress related to the Family Court process.  Our attorneys will be happy to discuss your issues with you and assist you in determining whether or not we believe that our representation increases your chances of success in the Family Court in any of the following legal matters: 

Custody
Custody is often the most sensitive of Family Law subjects.  Two parents at odds over who would better parent their most prized possession; their child(ren).  Emotion often takes over, barring a compromised settlement and leaving the court to determine what is in the best interests of the child(ren).  In making this decision the court will consider the child(ren)s' ages, their health, the parents' respective health, the parents' availability to the child(ren), the standard of living of the family, and even the opinions of the child(ren), if the court considers them old enough and mature enough to give their opinion.  

Parenting Time / Visitation
"Visitation" is now also known as "parenting time."  The terminology has changed to reflect the fact that time spent with a child(ren) should be quality time between a parent and child(ren) to promote the relationship and bond, rather than be deemed just a "visit" by the non-residential parent.  Each parent, unless deemed a danger or risk to the safety/well being of a child(ren), has indisputable rights to regular time with his/her child(ren).  

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Child Support
Child support is a mandatory payment from the non-residential parent to the primary residential parent on behalf of the children.  Child support is intended to be a contribution to expenses such as food, clothing and shelter.  The proper amount of child support is determined by applying a mathematical calculation based upon the Child Support Standards Act ("CSSA").  Under the CSSA, the non-custodial parent pays a percentage of the parties' combined gross adjusted income based upon the number of children, running from 17% to 35%.  Dependent upon the amount of the parties' combined incomes, these percentages will be strictly applied with the child support being payable until each child is emancipated (usually at the age of 21 years).  There are additional contributions that also may be directed to be made by the court for things such as education, medical insurance, day care and unreimbursed medical related expenses which would be over and above the child support payments.  Due to the often confusing nature of the CSSA and the additional contributions which can be required, it is best to consult with an experienced attorney to address any child support issues.


Maintenance / Spousal Support
Maintenance/spousal support is one of the most subjective issues in Family Law.  Any application for support is based upon a basic consideration: one party's need versus the other party's ability to pay.  If one party has great need but the other does not possess the financial means, there will likely be little or no award.  

Orders Of Protection
In cases of alleged abuse or harassment, an order of protection may be sought in the Family Court.  A party may file a petition seeking an order of protection and, if the court believes it justified, can obtain a temporary order of protection on the day of filing.  

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Paternity
Paternity is a proceeding to establish the biological father of a child(ren).  If a party is determined to be the father of the child(ren) at issue, he is obligated to take on certain financial responsibilities to the child(ren) (such as child support), and will similarly be entitled to visitation/parenting time with the child(ren).  Paternity can be acknowledged by the parties or can be determined by a DNA test.   In that so many additional issues arise from the results of the paternity process, it is always best to consult with an attorney familiar with these proceedings.


Our understanding of the sensitive nature  of the issues being faced allow us to offer you Experienced Legal Representation That You Can Afford.