Family Law Westchester Attorneys Ready To Fight For You

Westchester County Family Lawyer

Nearly 50 Years of Combined Experience. Direct Attorney Access. Real Results.

At Riebling & Payton, PLLC, we represent clients across the full range of family law matters in Westchester County, including child custody, child visitation, CPS allegations, orders of protection, juvenile delinquency, and divorce. When you hire us, you work directly with Stephen Riebling and Marcia Payton throughout your case, not associates or rotating staff. With nearly 50 years of combined legal experience and offices in both Mount Kisco and White Plains, we bring deep familiarity with local court expectations and a command of both family and criminal court systems.

Family law cases in Westchester County can involve proceedings in New York Supreme Court, Westchester County Family Court, or both at the same time. Whether the matter involves equitable distribution in a divorce or a custody dispute tied to a CPS investigation, the right attorney can make a meaningful difference for parental rights, financial stability, and children’s long-term well-being. We have successfully represented clients in matters spanning federal and state borders and offer free consultations to discuss your situation.

Our legal team handles the following family law matters:

Child custody: Maintaining a strong connection with your child matters. If you and your partner can’t agree on custody terms, we can advocate for your parental rights when the court issues its arrangement. The judge will hear both sides and make a decision based on the best interests of the child.
Child visitation: If you’re unable to have visitation with your child, speak with our family law attorneys as soon as possible. We may be able to file a petition to obtain visitation rights on your behalf.
Child protection services (CPS): Our attorneys have extensive experience litigating CPS matters in federal, state, and local New York courts. If a report has been filed against you for child abuse or neglect, contact us promptly. We can work to demonstrate that the CPS allegations are false.
Family offenses (Orders of Protection): If you’ve been the victim of a family offense through abuse, harassment, or another crime, we can help you seek an Order of Protection to protect you and your family.
Juvenile delinquency: If your child is under 18 and has been arrested or charged with a crime, working with an attorney quickly can give them a stronger opportunity for a favorable outcome.

Protect your family’s future with a trusted Westchester County family lawyer! Call (914) 712-6878 now for a free consultation or contact us online to get started.

What to Expect From Your Free Consultation

Family law cases in New York can move quickly, and some involve multiple proceedings across different courts at the same time. Early legal guidance matters. We offer complimentary consultations focused specifically on your family law situation in Westchester County, not a generic overview of legal options.

In your consultation, we can:

Evaluate your case and provide an honest assessment
Explain the legal processes involved and what to expect
Outline potential outcomes and strategies
Answer any questions or concerns you have

Informed clients make better decisions and tend to feel less stressed throughout the process. We’re here to help you understand where you stand before you take your next step.

Why Choose Our Family Law Attorneys in Westchester County

When you hire Riebling & Payton, PLLC, you work directly with Stephen Riebling and Marcia Payton. Marcia Payton’s background as a former Manhattan prosecutor informs the litigation strategy she brings to family court, particularly in contested custody matters and proceedings involving orders of protection. That cross-practice depth, spanning both criminal defense and family law, positions us to handle matters where both court systems overlap, such as CPS investigations and family offense proceedings under the New York Family Court Act.

Our offices in Mount Kisco and White Plains keep us accessible throughout Westchester County, and we’re willing to travel to New York City and the Bronx when clients need it. We balance aggressive courtroom representation with a client-centered approach built on clear communication and client involvement in every major decision.

Ready to take the first step? Contact Riebling & Payton, PLLC today to schedule a consultation with our Westchester County family law attorneys and start protecting your family’s rights.

Let Us Help You Fight for Your Rights

Whatever legal challenges you and your family are facing, our team has a thorough understanding of New York family law and a genuine commitment to making your legal process as manageable as possible. Family matters require care and sensitivity, and you can count on Riebling & Payton, PLLC to pursue solutions that reflect your best interests. If you need help with any of the matters above, contact us as soon as possible.

We know how to mediate, litigate, and negotiate, and we’ll apply whichever approach your situation requires. Our attorneys understand the nature of New York family courts and provide personalized guidance so you’re prepared for every stage of your case.

Navigating Divorce & Separation in Westchester County

Divorce and separation rank among the most difficult experiences a family can face. In New York, divorce proceedings are filed in New York Supreme Court, while related matters such as custody, support, and orders of protection may proceed concurrently in Westchester County Family Court. The impact on children can be profound, and we’re committed to keeping their best interests a priority throughout parenting plan and visitation negotiations. We work diligently to reach stable, amicable solutions that protect children’s emotional and financial well-being, drawing on our experience with family dynamics and local court expectations in Westchester County. The county’s high cost of living is also a recognized factor courts may weigh when calculating support obligations and equitable distribution under the New York Domestic Relations Law.

Child Custody & Visitation Rights

Child custody disputes are among the most contentious aspects of family law. Courts prioritize the best interests of the child when determining custody arrangements, and having skilled legal representation is critical to advocating for your parental rights.

Types of Custody Arrangements:

Physical Custody: Determines where the child will primarily reside.
Legal Custody: Grants a parent the right to make important decisions about the child’s upbringing, education, and healthcare.
Joint vs. Sole Custody: Joint custody allows both parents to share responsibilities, while sole custody grants one parent primary decision-making authority.
Visitation Schedules: A structured schedule ensures the non-custodial parent maintains a meaningful relationship with the child.

A skilled family law attorney in Westchester County can help negotiate custody arrangements that align with your child’s best interests while protecting your parental rights.

Domestic Violence & Orders of Protection

Victims of domestic violence have legal recourse through the family court system. We can assist in seeking orders of protection and navigating the court proceedings that follow.

Types of Orders of Protection:

Stay-Away Orders: Prohibit contact and physical proximity.
Refrain-From Orders: Restrict specific behaviors, such as harassment or threats.
Full Orders of Protection: Prevent all forms of communication and interaction.

Legal representation is essential when filing for an order of protection and managing any related criminal or family court proceedings.

Child Support Obligations in New York

New York law requires parents to financially support their children. Child support obligations are determined based on combined parental income, number of children, and specific needs. Under the Child Support Standards Act (CSSA), the court applies a fixed percentage to both parents’ combined income and allocates each parent’s share proportionally.

CSSA Percentages by Number of Children:

1 child: 17% of combined parental income
2 children: 25% of combined parental income
3 children: 29% of combined parental income
4 children: 31% of combined parental income
5+ children: At least 35% of combined parental income

Additional factors, such as healthcare expenses, education costs, and special needs, may also affect the calculation. A family law attorney in Westchester County can help ensure that support obligations are fair and properly enforced.

Spousal Support in New York

Spousal support, also known as alimony, is financial assistance awarded to one spouse following a divorce or separation. Courts weigh several factors when determining whether support is appropriate and how much to award.

Key Factors in Spousal Support Determination:

Length of Marriage: Longer marriages are more likely to result in spousal support awards.
Earning Capacity: Disparities in income and earning potential influence the amount of support.
Health and Age: A spouse’s medical conditions or age may necessitate financial assistance.
Contributions to the Marriage: Non-financial contributions, such as homemaking or supporting a spouse’s career, are considered.
Custody of Children: If one spouse has primary custody, their financial needs may increase.

We advocate for fair spousal support arrangements that protect financial stability for both parties.

Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law in Westchester County

How does child custody work in Westchester County?

Child custody in Westchester County is determined by the best interests of the child standard, which considers each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment, the child’s wishes if they’re old enough to express them, and any history of family violence or substance abuse. Courts generally prefer arrangements that keep both parents involved in the child’s life, but outcomes vary based on the specific facts of each case. We work to present a thorough, compelling case for custody arrangements that fit your family’s circumstances.

What are the typical considerations for spousal support in New York?

Spousal support in New York is determined by factors including the length of the marriage, the standard of living established during the marriage, and each party’s current and anticipated financial resources and earning capacity. Courts also consider each spouse’s contributions to the household, both financial and non-financial, and whether the supported spouse needs time or resources to become self-sufficient. We offer thorough consultations to help you understand how these factors apply to your specific situation in Westchester County.

Can I modify existing custody or support orders?

Yes. Modifications to custody or support orders can be requested when there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income, a relocation, or a shift in the child’s needs. The requesting party must show that the modification serves the best interests of the child. We help clients build a well-documented case for modification and present it effectively to the court.

What is the process for obtaining an Order of Protection?

To obtain an Order of Protection in Westchester County, you file a petition with the family court describing the abuse or threats you’ve experienced. The court may issue a temporary order immediately, followed by a full hearing where both parties present evidence. Orders can address contact, residence, custody, and visitation. We guide you through each step of this process with urgency and care, drawing on our knowledge of local court procedures to pursue your protection effectively.

How does the high cost of living in Westchester impact family law decisions?

Westchester County’s high cost of living can significantly influence support calculations. Courts consider both needs and resources when setting financial obligations, and the area’s housing and living costs make those calculations particularly consequential. We help clients understand how local economic realities factor into support and distribution decisions, and we work to pursue outcomes that reflect those circumstances fairly.

What should I do if a CPS report has been filed against me in New York?

A CPS report triggers an investigation by the Administration for Children’s Services or your county’s Department of Social Services. If the investigation results in a finding of indicated abuse or neglect, it can directly affect custody proceedings and your parental rights. Contact a family law attorney as soon as you learn of the report. We have experience litigating CPS matters in New York courts and can work to protect your rights throughout the investigation and any related family court proceedings.

If you’re facing a family law issue in Westchester County or the surrounding areas, call (914) 712-6878 or contact Riebling & Payton, PLLC online. We’re here to help you find a path forward for you and your family.

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We've Helped Hundreds of Clients

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“Truly positive experience”
Working with Riebling & Payton, PLLC was a truly positive experience from start to finish. They provided expert legal advice and guidance throughout my case, and I couldn't be happier with the outcome. Mr. Stephen Riebling demonstrated a deep understanding of the law and approached my case with professionalism and integrity. They kept me informed at every stage of the process, promptly responding to my calls and emails. Thanks to their dedication and hard work, we were able to reach a favorable resolution. I felt supported and well-represented throughout the entire process.I highly recommend Mr Riebling to anyone in need of legal assistance. Their expertise, communication skills, and personalized attention make them stand out in their field. Thank you for everything.

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