Video : Domestic Violence Situations

Joint Custody Ordered by Court

Close Up Of Father And Sons Reading Story At Home

In a case in Westchester County Justice Susan M. Cateci sitting in the Supreme Court divorce part held both the mother and father should have joint legal custody of the parties’ children. During the course of the matrimonial lawsuit, the mother testified on multiple occasions the father engaged in both physical and verbal abuse of her. She claimed these incidents occurred while she was pregnant and also in the presence of the parties’ two (2) children. The father denied any history of domestic violence. However, the court found the mother’s testimony was credible and the judge believed there had been a history of domestic violence between the parties to the marriage.

The Judge’s Decision

Justice Cateci found the father was a loving parent. She also found he was interested in promoting the children’s best interests and he was involved in the children’s upbringing. The judge believed he should continue to play a significant role in the children’s lives. The judge felt he should be consulted with regard to decisions effecting the children’s health and wellbeing. Judge Cateci found the mother should have the final decision making authority but ordered she consult with the father about all significant issues concerning the children. In addition he ruled the parties should use the services of a parenting coordinator.

Conclusion

Attorney Elliot Schlissel

Even in cases where the father has been involved in domestic violence concerning the mother, he can still be very involved in his children’s lives and have a beneficial impact on their health and general well being.

Elliot S. Schlissel is a father’s rights lawyer who has for more than 3 decades has been representing fathers in custody proceedings throughout the Metropolitan New York area. He is available for free consultations and can be reached at 800-344-6431.