Geneseo Family Attorney
In New York, cases that impact the lives of families, children, and parents are handled in the Family Court. Each county in New York has its own Family Court. A Genesco, NY, family lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of understanding your rights and responsibilities if you are involved in a family law matter.
Why Hire a Family Lawyer?
Family lawyers possess a special skill set that is critical to securing positive outcomes in cases that involve custody, visitation, paternity, child and spousal support, and guardianship. Trotto Law Firm, P.C., has been providing legal counsel to the residents of Geneseo, Livingston County, for over 16 years.
Trotto Law Firm, P.C. is equipped to handle the many facets of your case. Our firm routinely handles cases across the greater Rochester area and is highly regarded in each county court.
Steps for Starting a Case in Family Court
A family lawyer will explain and assist with each step. The Family Court that serves Genesco is located at 2 Court Street, Geneseo, NY 14454.
- Prepare the petition. The petition is a document that informs the court and the other party what the case is about. The individual who starts the case is referred to as the petitioner, and the other party is called the respondent.The petition should include as much detail as possible and should clearly explain what you are requesting from the court and why. In 2024, there were 2,228 cases filed in Livingston County Family Court.In cases that involve domestic violence or where the petitioner would like to keep their contact information confidential, an Address Confidentiality Affidavit can be submitted with the petition. Data from the NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services show there are approximately 161 annual domestic violence incidents in Livingston County.
- File the petition. Typically, the petition will be filed in the county where the child resides. Documents can be filed electronically or physically brought to the clerk’s office. There is no cost associated with filing a petition in family court.After the petition is successfully filed, the clerk will assign the case a docket number and provide you with a summons. The summons outlines when and where the individuals involved in the case need to be for the hearing with the judge.
- Serve the respondent. The respondent must receive a copy of the petition and summons. Your attorney will follow the required procedure for serving the respondent.The respondent is not allowed to serve the papers themselves. The person who serves the papers will need to complete an Affidavit of Service and have it notarized. The document provides proof that the petition and summons were delivered to the respondent.Prior to the court hearing, your attorney gathers and submits additional paperwork to the court either in person or through the electronic portal. These documents may include the Affidavit of Service, old court orders, school records, bank statements, receipts, photographs, and police reports.
Contact a Geneseo Family Attorney
Jonathan C. Trotto and the legal team at Trotto Law Firm, P.C., will work closely with you to ensure you understand each step of the legal process. Our team has handled thousands of cases like yours, and we are well-versed in all aspects of family law. Please reach out to our office to schedule a consultation to discuss your case.
