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Zacarese & Zalewski P.C.
Protecting Your Parental Rights When False Allegations Surface During the Holidays
Call now: 516-660-4354
The holiday season often intensifies parenting disputes in Suffolk County, leading to sudden, false allegations of neglect or abuse. Because these cases can be extended over a significant period, Attorney Steven Zalewski provides a predictable flat-fee structure—one fee for all pre-trial proceedings and one for the trial. This ensures you can defend your parental rights effectively without the stress of unpredictable hourly billing. With payment plans available and a focus on results, you can protect your reputation and your parenting time.
The holidays are supposed to be a time of stability, but for many families in Suffolk County, this season is when volatility peaks. Disrupted schedules and high emotional expectations often collide, leading to a surge in accusations in Suffolk County Family Court, ranging from domestic violence to Neglect Matters.
Whether these allegations stem from a misunderstanding or a strategic attempt to gain leverage, the consequences can be immediate. In New York, the holiday calendar moves quickly, and you need an advocate who can act just as fast.
The Cost of Fighting False Allegations in Suffolk County
Family court cases involving false accusations often extend over many months. This is especially true in Suffolk County, where cases are frequently extended over a significant period. Under the traditional hourly rate model, you often pay an attorney simply to wait for the case to be called—a practice I find unfair and unnecessarily expensive.
"I have worked my whole life and paid my own way, so I truly understand the concern about how much legal services cost," says Steven Zalewski. "I want my clients to be confident in their representation and not worry about being unable to finish their case because they can no longer afford it."
A Transparent Flat-Fee Structure
To ensure you can defend your reputation without financial fear, I offer a clear flat-fee structure:
- The Pre-Trial Fee: One set fee that covers all proceedings and appearances prior to trial, regardless of the number of court dates.
- The Trial Fee: One set fee for the trial itself, which is due 30 days before the scheduled trial start date.
This structure provides the predictability you need during a chaotic time. For those facing financial hardship, payment plan systems are available. My goal is to get you to court and get results.
How New York Family Court Evaluates Holiday Allegations
In Suffolk County, judges often issue same-day temporary orders during the holidays. Even unsupported claims can lead to suspended parenting time or mandatory supervised visits. The court's primary concern is always the "Best Interests of the Child."
If you are facing false reports of neglect or dangerous supervision, the court may involve CPS. Having an attorney who understands Neglect Matters and CPS procedures in Suffolk County is vital to protecting your rights before a temporary order becomes permanent.
How to Respond to False Accusations
- Stay Calm: Anger only helps the accuser.
- Document Everything: Texts, emails, and photos are your strongest defense.
- Follow the Order: Even if it feels unfair, following the existing court order exactly shows the judge you are the stable parent.
- Avoid Confrontation: Use parenting apps or written communication only.
Clarity. Confidence. Control.
False allegations can turn your holiday upside down in hours. Judges in Suffolk County do not tolerate parents who use the court as a weapon, but you must present a strong, evidence-based defense to protect your credibility. With a predictable flat-fee model and an advocate who understands the value of results, you can fight back and protect your future with your children.
Contact Steven Zalewski, Esq. — Suffolk County Family Court Attorney
📞 Office: (516) 377-7830
📱 Cell: (516) 660-4654
📧 Email: steve@zandzfamilylawyers.com
🏛 Address: 1601 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 500, Islandia, NY 11749
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At Zacarese & Zalewski P.C., when something isn’t right, say something—and we’ll do something about it with you.
Our flat-fee structure is clear: one flat fee for pre-trial work, and a trial fee only if your case goes to trial or a hearing. Call now and a professional will return your call quickly; if we miss you, we'll call back the same day.
