Synthèse factuelle
In New York, a custody order legally determines who is responsible for the care and upbringing of a child. The New York State Unified Court System specifies that custody can be awarded to one or both parents, or to another individual, based on the child's best interests. There are two main types of custody: legal custody, which covers decision-making about the child's welfare, education, and health, and physical custody, which pertains to where the child lives. To obtain a custody order, a parent or guardian must file a petition in the Family Court or Supreme Court of New York, depending on the case specifics. The court considers factors such as the child's safety, the stability of the home environment, and the parents' ability to cooperate. Temporary custody orders can be issued during the pendency of a case. There are statutory timelines for hearings and mediation may be required before a trial. Legal fees vary, and court costs may apply. Official information is available from the New York State Unified Court System at nycourts.gov.