Child Custody & Support Attorneys in New York & New Jersey

Legal Guidance for Custody and Support Agreements

When children are involved, divorce becomes more than just the end of a marriage—it becomes the foundation for a new family structure. At Larkin Farrell, we help parents in New York and New Jersey establish fair, enforceable custody and support agreements that prioritize the well-being of their children while protecting their rights as parents.



We understand how emotionally charged custody discussions can be. Whether you’re seeking joint custody, sole custody, or modifying an existing agreement, we approach every case with clarity, compassion, and strategic focus.

Types of Custody & Visitation

Custody arrangements fall into two main categories: legal custody, which determines decision-making rights (education, healthcare, religion), and physical custody, which determines where the child lives. We help parents pursue:


  • Joint Custody arrangements that promote shared parenting
  • Sole Custody in cases involving instability, abuse, or relocation
  • Custom Visitation Schedules that reflect your work, travel, and family dynamics
  • Emergency Custody Modifications when urgent changes are needed

Child Support in NY & NJ

Child support is calculated based on income, parenting time, and the child’s needs. But the numbers don't always tell the full story. We ensure child support agreements reflect:


  • Daycare, education, and healthcare costs
  • Fair income calculations for self-employed parents
  • Modifications due to job loss or income changes
  • Enforcement actions if payments are missed or withheld



Let Our Attorneys Help.

Key Considerations in Custody & Support Cases

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The Best Interests of the Child Come First

Courts in NY and NJ prioritize what’s best for the child—not necessarily what parents want. We help align your legal goals with what the courts will actually support.

Custody Affects Financial Outcomes

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Your custody arrangement directly impacts child support. Understanding how parenting time and income affect calculations is essential.

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Flexibility is Key to Modifications

Life changes—so should your agreement. Whether due to a move, job change, or evolving needs, we help parents update custody and support terms responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is custody determined in New York and New Jersey?

    Courts evaluate parenting ability, home stability, relationship with the child, and any history of abuse or neglect when determining custody.

  • What’s the difference between legal and physical custody?

    Legal custody relates to decision-making (education, health), while physical custody covers where the child lives. We help parents understand and structure both.

  • How is spousal support determined?

    Can custody or support be changed after the divorce?

  • What if the other parent isn’t paying support?

    We pursue enforcement actions to collect unpaid child support, including wage garnishments and court penalties.

  • How do courts treat joint custody in NY/NJ?

    Joint custody is common but not guaranteed. Courts want both parents involved—but only if both are stable, supportive, and communicative.

Protect What Matters Most

Whether you're navigating a new custody agreement or facing challenges with an existing one, our attorneys will help you secure the future your child deserves—while protecting your rights as a parent.

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