Going through a divorce can be an emotional and difficult process. While the effect on people is well known, there’s another important factor to consider: what will happen to your furry (or feathered) family member?
Navigating pet custody during a divorce comes with its own set of complexities, but it doesn’t need to add stress to an already tense situation. In this blog post, we’ll break down the basics of how divorce works when pets are involved in New York, so you can make sure you and your four-legged friend come out unscathed.
Understanding Pet Custody During a Divorce in New York
Divorce is never easy, but when you must make decisions about custody of a beloved pet, it can be even harder. If you and your spouse are divorcing and you share custody of a pet, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- First, it's important to remember that pets are living creatures who will be affected by divorce. You and your spouse should come up with a plan that is in the best interests of the pet. This may include splitting time with the pet evenly or alternating custody every other week.
- You will also need to decide who will take care of the pet when the other one is unavailable. This could mean rotating responsibility or designating one person as the primary caregiver. Whoever is not taking care of the pet should still be able to visit and spend time with them.
- It's also important to remember that pets can be expensive to care for. Whoever ends up taking custody of the pet will need to be prepared to pay for food, vet bills, and other expenses.
If you and your spouse are divorcing and share custody of a pet, it's important to remember that the well-being of the animal should be your top priority. Come up with a plan that is fair to both you and your pet, and make sure to discuss all aspects of care before finalizing anything.
Benefits of Working with an Attorney During a Pet Custody Dispute
When it comes to pet custody disputes, working with an attorney can be incredibly beneficial. An attorney can help you understand your rights and responsibilities, as well as guide you through the legal process. They can also provide expert advice and representation in court if necessary.
If you are involved in a pet custody dispute, it is important to seek legal help right away. This is a complex and emotional issue, and an attorney can ensure that your rights are protected. Contact Letterio & Haug, LLP to discuss your situation and find out how our experienced divorce attorneys can help.
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Give us a call at (845) 203-0997 or contact us online today for a confidential consultation with our experienced divorce lawyers in Dutchess County.