Law Office of Richard Roman Shum Announces Guidance From New York Child Custody Lawyer on Full Custody in NYC

September 23, 2025 at 16:20 PM EDT

New York, NY - The Law Office of Richard Roman Shum (https://www.romanshum.com/blog/what-is-the-meaning-of-full-custody-in-new-york-city/) announced an in-depth resource from its New York child custody lawyer explaining the meaning of full custody in New York City, how courts evaluate custody disputes, and the steps families can take to pursue arrangements that promote stability for children. Led by attorney Richard Roman Shum, Esq., the publication clarifies legal terms, outlines decision-making authority, and addresses frequently asked questions about physical and legal custody.

Full custody, often called sole custody, grants one parent primary decision-making authority over major issues such as education, medical care, and religious upbringing, along with the child’s primary residence. The firm’s guide details how a New York child custody lawyer assesses whether full physical custody, full legal custody, or both may be appropriate in light of the child’s best interests. The material also contrasts full custody with joint custody, explaining how courts weigh parental cooperation, caregiving history, and each household’s capacity to provide a safe, consistent environment.

The guidance further distinguishes full custody from sole custody, terms that are frequently used interchangeably in everyday conversation. A New York child custody lawyer from the firm explains that courts may award full physical custody while ordering shared legal custody, or, in more limited circumstances, may grant one parent both full physical and full legal custody. Factors such as the child’s age, continuity of care, educational opportunities, and any history of domestic violence or substance misuse can be pivotal to the court’s analysis.

The resource walks families through the Family Court process in New York City, beginning with filing a petition, serving the other parent, and participating in mediation where appropriate. If a negotiated resolution cannot be reached, the court may set hearings, consider testimony, and, when needed, appoint evaluators to examine home environments and parent-child relationships. The firm’s New York child custody lawyer underscores that the best-interests standard guides each step, from interim orders through the final custody determination and the issuance of a custody order defining decision-making and parenting time.

The publication also explains how child support intersects with full custody under New York’s Child Support Standards Act. When full custody is awarded, the noncustodial parent generally contributes support proportionate to income and the number of children, with courts addressing health care, educational costs, and unique needs. Additional sections address grandparents’ rights under Domestic Relations Law § 72, including petitions for visitation in equitable circumstances and the limited path to custody in extraordinary cases. The guide closes with practical direction on custody modifications when circumstances change, such as relocation, health issues, or concerns about a child’s well-being.

“Families navigating custody decisions deserve clear, practical information that reflects how New York courts evaluate real-world situations,” said Richard Roman Shum, Esq. “The goal is to support stable outcomes that protect children while giving parents a roadmap for each procedural step.”

About The Law Office of Richard Roman Shum:

The Law Office of Richard Roman Shum is a New York City family law firm serving clients in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. The firm handles child custody and visitation, divorce and separation, child support, and post-judgment modifications. Led by Richard Roman Shum, Esq., the practice focuses on careful case development, steady advocacy, and solutions tailored to each family’s needs. For consultations, call (646) 259-3416 or visit the firm’s website to schedule an appointment.

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Email: richard@romanshum.com

Website: https://www.romanshum.com/

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Company Name: Law Office of Richard Roman Shum, Esq PLLC
Contact Person: Richard Roman Shum
Email: Send Email
Phone: (646) 259-3416
Address:20 Clinton St #5d
City: New York
State: New York 10002
Country: United States
Website: https://www.romanshum.com/

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Law Office of Richard Roman Shum Announces Guidance From New York Child Custody Lawyer on Full Custody in NYC

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