Child custody disputes in New York are governed by a set of laws aimed at ensuring the best interests of the child are upheld while considering the rights of both parents. New York follows the principle of "best interests of the child," Contested Divorce New York State which means that decisions regarding custody arrangements prioritize the child's physical, emotional, and developmental needs above all else.

The courts encourage parents to reach agreements on custody and visitation outside of court through mediation or negotiation. However, when parents cannot come to an agreement, the court will intervene to make a determination based on various factors. These factors include the child's relationship with each parent, the parents' ability to provide for the child's needs, the child's preferences (if they are of a sufficient age and maturity level), any history of abuse or neglect, and the stability of each parent's home environment.

New York recognizes two types of custody: legal custody, which refers to the right to make important decisions regarding the child's upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and religion, and physical custody, which pertains to where the child primarily resides. Custody can be awarded solely to one parent (sole custody) or shared between both parents (joint custody).

In cases of joint custody, divorce cases in new york the court may grant joint legal custody, joint physical custody, or both. It's essential to note that New York courts prioritize maintaining meaningful relationships between children and both parents, except in cases where there are significant concerns about a parent's ability to provide a safe and stable environment.

Additionally, New York law encourages parents to foster positive co-parenting relationships to minimize the impact of the custody dispute on the child. If a custody arrangement needs to be modified due to changing circumstances or the child's best interests, either parent can petition the court for a modification. Ultimately, the goal of New York's child custody laws is to ensure that children have the opportunity to grow up in nurturing environments that promote their well-being and development, even in the midst of parental disputes.