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Segalas Law Firm

The Segalas Law Firm - Matrimonial and Family Law Firm - Bergen, Essex, Morris and Passaic Counties, New Jersey

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    • Divorce & Family Law
      • Custody & Child Support
      • Domestic Violence
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3 Signs You Need a Child Custody Lawyer

child custody

Today, around 39% of U.S. marriages end in divorce, but New Jersey is among the states with the highest rate of divorce. While this situation can be difficult for anyone, it inevitably becomes more challenging when children are involved.

If you share children with another person, and the relationship dissolves, it might be your greatest hope to resolve things amicably and avoid having to spend resources on a contentious court case. Unfortunately, this isn’t always possible in every situation. If any of the following signs sound familiar to you, it’s within your best interests — and the best interests of your children — to hire a child custody lawyer in NJ you can trust.

Your Visitation Rights Are Being Disrupted

Whether or not you have a formal visitation agreement in place, it’s likely that your ex can’t simply decide to restrict or cancel the time you’re allowed to spend with your children. If your contact with your kids is being limited or visits with them are being canceled without warning by your co-parent, this is an issue that requires help from a qualified attorney.

While some parents believe they can restrict access between their ex and their children due to unpaid child support or even change custody arrangements due to COVID-19, these actions may not be legal. If you’re unable to reach an agreement with your former spouse and you want to ensure your visitation rights remain intact, it’s a good idea to discuss your options with a child custody lawyer.

Your Ex Has Plans to Move Out of State

When you and your ex were still married or together, you would expect them to discuss major life changes with you before reaching an agreement. But once you’re divorced, you won’t get much say in what your ex does.

That may not apply to their plans to move out-of-state, however. Some parents assume they can simply move to a different state (perhaps in order to make shared custody more difficult) with their children.

If this is a scenario you’re facing and you’re worried about losing time with your children, you’ll want to consult with an attorney. In most cases, one parent will require express permission from the court to move out of the state. While there is a chance that permission will be granted, you deserve every chance to ensure you can continue seeing your children and that decisions regarding their upbringing won’t be unilateral.

You’re Worried Your Children Are In Danger

Most child custody cases involve rather innocuous (albeit frustrating) issues regarding educational or medical decisions, monetary support, or shared time. In more extreme situations, however, you might be worried about the safety of the environment in which your children are spending time with your ex.

Whether you’re concerned that your former spouse isn’t mentally stable enough to provide proper care for your kids or you have evidence that your ex is abusive, dealing with substance use issues, or could otherwise pose a danger to your family, you need to take action to ensure your children come first. A child custody attorney can evaluate the situation and guide you through the proper steps, which could include filing for a restraining order or going to court to have a judge re-evaluate the existing arrangement you have in place.


An attorney with ample experience in family law issues pertaining to child custody can help to protect your rights as a parent, as well as the well-being of your children. For more information on how we can provide you with the support your family deserves, please contact our firm today.

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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

A true professional
September 29, 2018
A true professional, caring and compassionate - Steven handled a complicated emotional post-divorce matter for me with all of the expertise and grit you would expect from a top Family Law Attorney, but Steven also has a deep care and concern for his clients best interest as a whole long after the matter is settled that I am proud to say for anyone considering him for your matter you should meet him and see for yourself. I'm sure you will feel as confident as I did that he is a Top Choice Attorney.
- Anthony
Great Attorney
June 21, 2018
Steven Segalas truly cares for his clients. He is knowledgeable, kind and a great negotiator! Served as my attorney for a difficult child support case and handled challenges with ease. He’s the one to have on your side. Would highly recommend him.
- Luis
Great Attorney
February 13, 2018
He knows his business as an attorney and keeps you updated. He is not only an advocate in court but outside of it. I cannot recommend him enough.
- Anonymous
Professional and Supportive
July 17, 2015
I absolutely do not know where I would be without him. I went through a 3 year divorce where my ex-husband changed lawyers numerous times. Steven was on top of every single aspect of my case and was there for me every single step of the way, he even spent Valentine’s Day in mediation with me. In addition to handling the divorce, Steven also represented me in my Domestic Violence Case against my ex-husband and secured a FRO (formal restraining order). The trial revealed very personal, embarrassing and painful information. Steven was nothing but professional and supportive. If you are looking for an attorney, you will be in excellent hands with him. Even when you are at your worst, he will hand you a tissue and make you smile!
- Bonnie
Outstanding Family Law Attorney
March 27, 2015
Steven M. Segalas is an outstanding Family Law attorney. I have worked with Steven as an adversary on many cases. Steven is an expert on Family Law. He is always up to date on statutes, Rules of Court and case law which bears on the cases we have handled together. I respect Steven’s strong advocacy for his clients. Steven knows when to fight and when to compromise. This is the true sign of a great Family Law attorney.
- Faith
A Great Attorney
March 16, 2015
A great attorney handled my divorce. My divorce and subsequent child custody matters were quite involved. Mr. Segalas was thoughtful and helpful throughout the process. He employed some out of the box thinking that allowed me to continue to have healthcare for myself and my children during a very trying time in my life. I always felt protected in court. Mr. Segalas was always ready to respond to whatever allegation was made in my direction from opposing counsel. I was very happy with his service.
- Anonymous
Fast-precise-no BS
March 10, 2015
Steve worked his magic to saved me from the X….Saved me thousands! Fast-precise-no BS. I would use Steve without second thoughts knowing you will be in the best of care & guidance!
- Mark
Great Attorney
February 27, 2014
My attorney makes ME a priority. He always explains the legal divorce process in terms that I can understand; and he has the ability to answer all of my divorce questions. The office is well-staffed for the follow up. My attorney has a team of lawyers and legal assistants trained to guide me through the divorce process and fight for my best interests. My attorney always presents a clear plan which includes all steps of divorce, information I need to gather, and a fee schedule. My attorney raise other issues I had not thought of yet that could have significant ramifications for the short-term and long-term success of my divorce. I go with my attorney who addresses my fears and concerns; exudes confidence and feels like a good fit for me ????
- Mark
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The material presented on this website is intended for general information purposes only and is not offered, nor should be construed, as legal advice on any specific matter or circumstance. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. The information contained in this website is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a lawyer-client relationship nor is it intended to substitute for the advice of an attorney. This website constitutes Attorney Advertising.

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