Henrietta Family Attorney
The issues covered by family law have the potential to impact the lives of children and families for many years. The decisions that you make today are critical to establishing a secure future, and it is prudent to have the assistance of a skilled Henrietta family lawyer during this important time in your life.
Hire a Family Lawyer
Jonathan C. Trotto has over 16 years of experience handling family law cases. He has dedicated his entire career to representing children and families in the Greater Rochester region. Trotto Law Firm, P.C., can effectively handle all aspects of your family law matter from detailed preparation to trial.
What Does the Family Court Do?
The Family Court in New York hears cases that pertain to children, parents, and families. The Family Court’s authority to oversee cases is granted by the Family Court Act. Each of New York’s 62 counties has its own Family Court.
The Family Court for Monroe County is located at 99 Exchange Blvd., Hall of Justice, Rochester, NY 14614. In 2024, the court handled a total of 23,132 cases, including nearly 8,000 cases dealing with child custody and visitation.
The Family Court is not a criminal or civil court; rather, it focuses on non-criminal family matters, where the best interest of the child is always paramount. Family Court can handle the following types of legal matters:
- Child support
- Spousal maintenance
- Adoption
- Guardianship
- Abuse and neglect
- Paternity
- Child custody and visitation
- Orders of protection in domestic violence cases
- Juvenile delinquency
In Family Court, most trials are heard by a judge. However, support and paternity cases are heard by support magistrates. There are no juries in Family Court; the support magistrate or judge oversees the hearing and then renders a decision on the case.
What to Expect in Family Court
It is important to arrive on time for your hearing. If you are not there when the case is called into the courtroom, the judge or support magistrate may decide to proceed and hear the case without you or may dismiss the case.
At the hearing, both sides will have the opportunity to present testimony and evidence. For cases that involve children, the court may appoint law guardians who serve as an attorney for children, as well as advocate for their interests and present their wishes to the court.
The main objective of the judge or support magistrate is to ensure just and fair outcomes for families based on the law and facts presented. If you do not agree with the outcome of your case, you have the right to file an appeal. Appeals are reviewed by a higher court that will either decide to affirm, modify, or reverse the decision.
Family Court records are not open for public inspection. However, an individual who is directly involved in a case may request a copy of the court order from the Record Room staff at the courthouse where the case was heard.
Discuss Your Case With a Henrietta Family Attorney
Jonathan C. Trotto takes pride in being honest with clients when discussing their expectations and probable outcomes. Trotto Law Firm, P.C., excels in providing knowledgeable counsel and is dedicated to looking after our clients’ rights. Please contact the office to discuss your family law needs.
