Family

Pursuing justice in family law cases is a particular point of pride at the Law Office of Joana Kaso, PLLC. Few circumstances in anyone’s life are as emotionally challenging as those that lead to an appearance in family court. Even the most amicable of uncontested divorces necessarily involve substantial change and disruption for both parties, as the divorcing partners adjust themselves to the prospect of forging new, separate lives. The feeling of helplessness that can often accompany a child custody case, however, can be truly hallowing. The isolation and grief that many people experience during a divorce are only compounded by the fear that one wrong move — one incorrect filing, one misunderstood court requirement — could mean the loss of parenting right and therefore your relationship with your precious children. 

One piece of good news is that the New York Unified Court System now follows what is called a “presumption” of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) for family law cases. This presumption has a tendency to defuse potentially tense family law proceedings. Another potential source of encouragement is that New York courts are in general fairly hesitant to award exclusive custody whether physical or legal, to either parent. The combination of these two factors means that most couples seeking a divorce or attempting to navigate a complex post-decree matter in New York’s 9th Judicial District can expect a relatively robust ADR framework that can help the former spouses find common ground and work toward a fair and mutually acceptable agreement they can present to the court. They may also wish to take advantage of the advice and guidance of a knowledgeable New York attorney. Compassion for family struggles, bolstered by finely-honed expertise in the laws that most closely affect family law cases in New York State, can prove to be a powerful resource, not only in court but at your side.