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Family courts in Long Island have many similarities to different types of courts, but they also have some notable differences. It should be noted that each state uses varying systems that decide how cases progress and eventually come to a close.

In general, family courts handle cases related to familial issues such as:

Problems involving one’s family are often privately dealt with. However, it’s not uncommon to encounter issues that require legal assistance. For New York residents who find themselves involved in family law matters, seeking the help of family court Long Island lawyers will provide the best outcome for both parties.

Whatever the circumstances are, it’s important that both litigating parties know what to expect when dealing with family court cases. Keep in mind that if you are not entirely sure of what happens during a court trial, asking the support of a Long Island family attorney will be very useful.

1. Who is the arbiter of Long Island Family court proceedings

It’s a common misconception that a jury is required to attend all court hearings regardless of the court of law. This is not true, especially for family court cases. Oftentimes, jury members are not legally trained professionals and they may be subject to biases when it comes to cases such as this one (i.e. the women may take the women’s side and the men may take the men’s side.) For the benefit of both parties and society as a whole, the court judge will be the sole person who presides over Long Island family court trial. However, when it comes to spousal or child support or paternity cases, support magistrates who have gone through extensive training are required to hear the case. If the magistrate decides that the other party needs to be put in jail, a judge must confirm the decision before the final order is completed.

2. How Long Island family courts work

The family court Long Island procedure uses similar methods as other courts. First, the individual or group of individuals must present a petition for the case to be opened. The date and time of the hearing will be decided usually thereafter. Second, the parties involved will be summoned to court on the specific date and time of trial. Both parties must have the knowledge of their rights during the hearing and are required to have representation preferably by a Long Island family attorney, this will be assured by the judge. Third, the initial hearing, also known as the Fact Finding Hearing will begin. This is a way for the arbiter to decide the veracity of the allegations. If the allegations are found true, a dispositional hearing will commence. A dispositional hearing is necessary for determining the appropriate and most ideal outcome before a case can be resolved.

3. Your punctuality is expected

Should you receive a letter that summons you to the court on a specific date, you are advised to arrive on time. We suggest that you arrive earlier than the specified hour to prevent the risks that come with tardiness. Once the judge, magistrate, or the referee is ready, the filing, trial, judgment, and/or legal filing may start even without the other party. The proceedings may sometimes even be settled despite the absence of one party. Take note that the judge has the power to dismiss the case if the petitioner or appellant is considered absent.

The family court Long Island buildings are open from Monday through Friday. During those days, between 1 PM and 2 PM, the courthouse will be closed for recess but the main building will remain open to the public. The Night Court has been unavailable since 2011 after the budget cuts.

Who can help your family court Long Island cases?

If you’re facing a seemingly insurmountable challenge involving family law, know that seeking the help of a family law attorney Long Island expert is the easiest and most effective route.

family law attorney Long Island

The things you need to look for in an attorney are integrity, experience, compassion, confidentiality, and cases settled in their favor.

Need legal assistance? We’re here to help

Vladimir and Associates Attorneys at Law is a reliable law firm that has a collective number of more than 40 years experience. With more 12 awards, thousands of clients, and thousands of cases won, well help you find justice fast. We work closely with our clients, ensuring to perform deep research to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. No other Long Island family court services can provide the same quality of work that we do.

Are you in need of family law attorney Long Island services? Don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected]. You may also call us 631-667-9666. For more information about our services and our legal team, click here to visit our official website.