2010 Domestic Violence Legislative Update
The following is a summary of this session’s domestic violence related bills that passed both houses of the New York State Legislature or were recently signed into law by Governor Paterson. Read More
2009 Domestic Violence Law Legislative Update
Despite the well-publicized legislative challenges of last summer, a great many bills addressing domestic violence and other issues of interest or concern to families were, ultimately, enacted. Read More
2007 Domestic Violence Legislative Update
Summaries of the domestic violence-related laws passed in 2007 in New York Read More
New Law Provides Assigned Counsel in Certain Supreme Court Proceedings
Under Family Court Act §262, certain litigants are entitled to assigned counsel in a myriad of Family Court proceedings including, but not limited to, family offense, custody and visitation, paternity establishment, child welfare, and contempt matters. Read More
Judge Kaye Convenes Statewide Task Force
Address Flaws in Divorce Process
In June 2004, Chief Judge Judith Kaye announced the creation of a Matrimonial Commission. This Commission is charged with "examining every facet of the divorce process" in New York and recommending reforms to correct existing problems in both the Supreme and Family Courts. Among other topics, the Commission will consider the complex issues involved in contested custody cases, the use, role and qualification of forensic experts and law guardians, mediation and the use of alternative dispute resolution, collaborative divorce efforts, interim counsel fees, and enforcement of court orders. Read More
