Jennifer Dumin, Esquire

Question: My son’s father has partial custody on his days off, but he never tells me until the last minute when his schedule changes. He’s also late all the time when he picks him up and drops him off, even when we just agreed on a time the day before. Is there anything I can do about this? Answer: Unfortunately, custody orders are often annoyingly vague. In cases like yours, it would be more useful to have a more detailed custody order. For example, your custody order could ...specify that the father must give you a schedule of his days off well in advance, and notify you immediately if there are changes. The pick-up and drop-off times can be set in an order as well. Your order can be modified through a written agreement, if your son's father is willing to do so. If not, you would have to go back to court to modify the current custody order. In any case, speaking with an attorney who is experienced in these matters would be a good next step. Many attorneys offer a one-time free consultation during which you can get a more detailed explanation of your options. See more

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Thanks to the Washington Square West Civic Association for the warm welcome!

On February 27, Ms. Dumin attended the fourth annual Mazonni Center Benefit, which brings together legal professionals, law students, and others to raise funds for and awareness about Mazzoni Center’s Legal Services program, which provides direct legal assistance to low-income lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals in a wide range of areas. This year’s Mazzoni Center Justice in Action Awards went to the Hon. Daniel Anders and the Hon. Ann Butchart, both of whom have been pioneers and role models within the legal profession, as the city’s first openly LGBT judges.