Resources

Practical tools for real decisions

We’ve gathered plain-English resources to help you understand what’s happening, what comes next, and where to get reliable information—so you can make decisions with confidence.

Neglect Is a Legal Finding, Not Just an Accusation: What Parents Need to Understand About Article 10 Cases

An accusation of neglect is not the same as a finding of neglect. Here is what New York law actually requires, and what parents can do about it.

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“You Don’t Have to Like Each Other. You Do Have to Parent.” What Family Court Expects From Co-Parents

New York Family Court expects co-parents to communicate responsibly, follow custody orders, and keep personal conflict from affecting their children. Consistent cooperation and support for the child’s relationship with both parents can play an important role in custody cases.

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What Are You Actually Paying For? Steven Zalewski Explains the Flat-Fee Approach to Family Court

Steven Zalewski’s flat-fee approach gives Suffolk County families predictable legal costs throughout the pre-trial and trial phases. The structure covers all court appearances and offers payment plans to help clients avoid unexpected hourly bills.

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Your Child Says, “I Don’t Want to Go.” Can They Refuse Visitation in New York?

New York does not have a specific age when a child can automatically refuse court-ordered visitation. A child’s preference may influence the court, but parents should continue following the existing order and address concerns through proper legal channels.

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Short reads, clear takeaways

Blog Articles

Quick, plain-English posts that explain Family Court basics, timelines, and next steps—written to answer real questions without legal jargon.

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What should I do if CPS contacts my child's school in Suffolk County?

Stay calm, but don't stay quiet. Contact from CPS at your child's school can feel like an ambush, and it often is one. You have rights during any neglect investigation, including the right to legal representation before you say anything. I've walked Suffolk County parents through this exact situation many times. Don't guess your way through it.

Contact Steven Zalewski, Esq. for guidance.

When should I contact a Family Court attorney instead of waiting for my next court date?

The moment something changes, whether it's a missed support payment, a CPS call, or the other parent breaking your order, is the moment to call. Waiting for your next court date can cost you time you can't get back in Suffolk County Family Court. I answer my own phone and I guarantee you will be heard. Contact Steven Zalewski, Esq. for guidance.

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What does a flat fee for Family Court representation actually cover?

My flat fee covers every court appearance your case needs, from the first hearing to trial, for one set price. No hourly clock running, no surprise bills every time your case goes back on the calendar. Family Court in Islandia and across Suffolk County can drag on, and I think you deserve to know your cost upfront. Contact Steven Zalewski, Esq. for guidance.

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What does CPS have to prove in a neglect case in New York Family Court?

CPS has to show your child's physical, mental, or emotional condition was harmed, or is at real risk of harm, because of what a parent did or failed to do. It's a specific legal standard, not just an opinion or a rumor. I've watched families in Central Islip Family Court get through this when they had the right defense. Contact Steven Zalewski, Esq. for guidance.

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Fast answers when you need them

FAQs

Concise answers to common Family Court questions in Suffolk County. Start here to get oriented, then dive deeper when you’re ready.

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Manhattan

Family Court

Family Court – New York County (Manhattan)

New York

,

NY

,

10013

General Clerk Phone:

Manhattan/Staten Island

Borough Office

Manhattan/Staten Island Borough Office

New York

,

NY

,

10002

General Clerk Phone:

Richmond

Family Court

Family Court – Richmond County (Staten Island)

Staten Island

,

NY

,

10301

General Clerk Phone:

Westchester

Family Court

Westchester Family Court – White Plains

White Plains

,

NY

,

10601

General Clerk Phone:

Westchester

Family Court

Westchester Family Court – New Rochelle

New Rochelle

,

NY

,

10801

General Clerk Phone:

Who to call, Where to go

Court Contacts

If you do one thing today, get a lawyer. If you can’t hire us, talk to a lawyer anyway—through Legal Aid or an assigned counsel plan—so you don’t face Family Court alone. New York law provides appointed counsel in many Family Court matters, and court Help Centers can point you to the right place and forms. Use the contacts below to confirm where your case belongs and who to call next.

i guarantee you will be heard

Ready to Take the Next Step?

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.

Call · 516-660-4354

Talk to a professional today. Fast call-backs.

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