Do you need a lawyer for family court in NY?
The short answer is no, you are not legally required to have a lawyer in most New York Family Court cases; you have the right to represent yourself, or proceed pro se.
The short answer is no, you are not legally required to have a lawyer in most New York Family Court cases; you have the right to represent yourself, or proceed pro se.
Whether you're dealing with divorce, child custody, spousal support, or other family matters, the cost of legal representation is a primary concern for many New Yorkers.
Unlike the State's Supreme Court, which handles divorces, the Family Court is a specialized court dedicated to matters involving children and families, with a core mission to protect the well-being and "best interests of the child."
In New York, a grandparent's right to visitation is not automatic and requires successfully navigating a two-step legal process. When that relationship is abruptly severed or blocked by the child's parents, the emotional pain can be devastating.