FAQ

Frequently asked questions & answers

As a grandparent, can I petition the court for visitation with my grandchildren?

The short answer is Yes! In New York, grandparents can petition the court for visitation with their grandchildren if: 1) one or both parents of the child(ren) have died, or 2) the grandparent have a substantial existing relationship with their grandchildren, or 3) the parents of the child(ren) have interfered with the grandparent's efforts to establish or maintain a relationship with the child(ren).

Schedule a consultation today to see how we can help you with this process.

I've been charged with a DWI, will this affect my ability to adjust my immigration status?

Being charged with a DWI does not automatically prevent you from adjusting your immigration status; however, a DWI charge that leads to a conviction might have immigration consequences. Therefore, it is important to make sure you speak with your defense attorney about your immigration status so that he or she can effectively advocate for you. This includes not just getting you the best outcome, whether through plea negotiations or a trial, but also protecting the record so that it cannot later be used against you in your immigration proceedings.

Do not hesitate to contact us as we handle both criminal and immigration cases!

What is a prenuptial agreement and do I need one?

A prenuptial agreement is a contract between couples prior to getting married. This contract essentially lays out the rights and responsibilities of the couple during the marriage, as well as in the event of a divorce or the death of one or both of the parties. Although New York has laws that determine the division of property and assets in the event of a divorce or the death of a spouse, having a prenup gives you control over your assets and property because the court will recognize and enforce a valid prenup.

Schedule a consultation with us today to determine whether a prenup is right for you.

ACS has filed a Neglect/Abuse case against me, what should I do?

Do not face ACS alone. A neglect or abuse finding by the court can have sever consequences on your ability to obtain certain jobs in the future. Get an attorney who will zealously advocate for you.

I want visitation with my child but I am not on the birth certificate, what should I do?

You need to establish paternity before you can petition the court for visitation or custody. If you and the mother agrees, you can voluntarily establish paternity by completing an Acknowledgement of Paternity form. The other option is to file a paternity action through the courts, which will involve DNA testing. Once paternity is established, you can pursue your custody and visitation case.

Schedule a consultation today to see how we can help you with this process.

If I want to hire you, what should I do?

If you want to hire Attorney Rookwood to represent you in your case, please complete the contact form and request to set up a consultation. Consultation fees are $150. However, if you decide to retain Attorney Rookwood after the consultation, the fee will be applied against your initial retainer agreement.