Child Custody Lawyer Queens, NY

For parents in Queens County, child custody disputes involve deeply personal concerns and legal standards that the courts take seriously. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., our New York location represents clients throughout Queens—from Jamaica to Flushing, Astoria to Forest Hills—in custody matters before the Queens County Supreme Court (for custody within a divorce action) and the Queens County Family Court (for standalone custody petitions). Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to help parents present their case under New York’s “best interests of the child” standard, guiding them through each stage whether the matter is resolved through negotiation or litigation. We focus on achieving clarity for your family while safeguarding your parental rights. To discuss your child custody matter in Queens, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Child Custody Means in Queens, New York

Child custody in Queens is governed by the New York Domestic Relations Law and the Family Court Act. The overarching standard is the best interests of the child, which requires the court to examine a range of factors—such as each parent’s fitness, the child’s relationship with siblings, the home environment, and, when appropriate, the child’s own wishes. Unlike some states that apply a fixed formula, New York gives the judge broad discretion to craft an arrangement that serves the child’s well‑being. Custody matters may be heard in two different courts: if the parents are married and seeking a divorce, custody is part of the Supreme Court matrimonial action; for unmarried parents or post‑divorce modifications, the Family Court handles the petition.

Queens County’s diverse communities—from Long Island City and Corona to Howard Beach and Ozone Park—reflect the practical reality that custody issues often intersect with housing, school enrollment, and work commutes. The Queens County Family Court, located at 88‑11 Sutphin Boulevard in Jamaica, processes custody, visitation, and support petitions. Attorneys appearing there must be familiar with local procedural expectations, including mandatory settlement conferences and the role of court‑appointed attorneys for the child in contested matters. Additionally, child support obligations are tied to custody orders and, under the Child Support Standards Act, are calculated as a percentage of combined parental income—17% for one child, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, and 35% for five or more children—applied against income up to the statutory cap, with the court retaining discretion above that cap. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. works with parents to understand how these rules apply to their specific living and financial arrangements in Queens.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Child Custody Cases

When a parent contacts Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. about a custody concern, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel begin by reviewing the family’s situation, the relief sought, and any immediate safety concerns. In Queens, custody petitions must be filed in the proper court—Supreme Court or Family Court—and the initial step is often a request for a pendente lite (temporary) order to establish interim custody and visitation while the full case proceeds. We prepare the necessary filings and, where possible, work toward an agreement through negotiation or mediation to reduce the strain on the children. If a trial is necessary, the team presents evidence and witness testimony focused on the trusted‑interests factors recognized by New York courts.

Because custody disputes can involve relocation requests, modifications to existing orders, or allegations that one parent is not supporting the child’s relationship with the other, the representation requires a practical understanding of both the law and the local court culture. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have experience appearing before judges in Queens County and are prepared to address the procedural nuances—such as the role of forensic evaluations, the appointment of a law guardian, and the requirement that parents complete a Parent Education and Awareness Program before entering a final order. Throughout the process, the team’s goal is to obtain a clear, enforceable custody order that provides stability for the family. Results may vary.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997. A former prosecutor, he brings a trial‑tested perspective to family law matters, including contested custody trials. Mr. Sris is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

Mr. Sris is supported by a capable team of Of Counsel attorneys who assist with custody matters throughout New York. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is child support calculated in Queens, New York?

Child support in New York is calculated using a statutory percentage of the parents’ combined income: 17% for one child, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, and 35% for five or more children, applied to income up to the statutory cap. The court may order additional support on income above that cap after considering factors outlined in the Child Support Standards Act. The calculation includes both parents’ income, certain deductions, and adjustments for other children. In Queens, support petitions are typically heard alongside custody petitions, and the amount is often incorporated into the final custody order.

What factors do Queens courts consider when determining child custody?

Queens courts apply the “best interests of the child” standard, evaluating factors such as each parent’s fitness, the child’s relationship with each parent, the child’s wishes if of sufficient age and maturity, and which parent has been the primary caregiver. Additional considerations include the mental and physical health of all parties, any history of domestic violence, the quality of the home environment, and each parent’s willingness to foster a relationship with the other parent. The court may appoint a law guardian to represent the child’s interests in contested cases.

Can a parent move out of Queens with the child without court approval?

Generally, no. If a relocation would interfere with the other parent’s court‑ordered visitation or parenting time, the relocating parent must obtain permission from the court or the other parent’s consent. New York courts will examine the reasons for the move, the impact on the child’s relationship with the non‑moving parent, and the child’s best interests. Even a move within Queens that significantly disrupts the existing schedule may require modification of the custody order.

Do I need a lawyer for a child custody case in Queens?

You are not required by law to hire a lawyer, but having experienced legal representation can help you present your case effectively and navigate procedural rules. Custody cases involve detailed pleadings, discovery, mediation sessions, and potentially a trial. An attorney can gather the right evidence, cross‑examine witnesses, and negotiate settlements that protect your parental rights. For complex situations—such as relocation, allegations of abuse, or interstate custody disputes—counsel is strongly advised.

What is the difference between legal custody and physical custody in New York?

Legal custody refers to the right to make major decisions about the child’s upbringing—education, healthcare, and religion—while physical custody determines where the child lives. Courts may award joint legal custody (both parents share decision‑making), sole legal custody (one parent decides), joint physical custody (the child spends substantial time with both parents), or sole physical custody (the child lives primarily with one parent). The parent with sole physical custody usually has the right to residential decisions, though the non‑custodial parent retains visitation rights unless they present a danger.

How can Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. help with my child custody matter in Queens?

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. helps parents in Queens by evaluating their custody goals, preparing and filing petitions, negotiating with the other parent’s attorney, and, when needed, presenting evidence at trial. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel office are prepared to address temporary orders, modifications, and enforcement of existing custody orders. To discuss your specific situation, call (888) 437-7747. For guidance on your particular circumstances, reach our New York location today.

Family Law Attorney New York County (Manhattan) |
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Family Law Attorney Richmond County (Staten Island) |
Family Law Attorney Nassau County

New York Domestic Relations Law |
New York State Unified Court System

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder
Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York
Practicing since 1997
Last reviewed: July 2026

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Results may vary.