Our Family Law Unit is committed to compassionately advocating for clients as they navigate the often overwhelming processes of family court and matrimonial litigation. In doing so, we maintain a consistent focus on those most in need of assistance, including victims of domestic violence and elder abuse. These are community members who – whether by disability, limited English proficiency or other common disadvantages – have difficulty accessing equal treatment under the law. Healthy families represent the bedrock of a fair, just and peaceful society.  It is the Family Law Unit’s mission to protect that foundation by helping families obtain and maintain safety from domestic violence, attain financial support and other economic relief, and facilitate safe and healthy access between parents and children. 

If you have any of the following questions, our Family Law Unit may be able to help.

What do I do if I have been hit, pushed, bullied, or threatened by a partner/previous partner or family member?
How can I get an order of protection from Family Court?

What is the difference between a separation and a divorce?

Does my spouse need to agree to a divorce for me to file for one?
What do I do if I’m served with divorce papers?
How do I get custody of my child and child support?
How do I change visitation with the other parent? Can I change an old order?

What is domestic violence?

Domestic violence is abusive behavior - emotional, psychological, physical, financial, or sexual - that one person in an intimate relationship uses in order to gain and maintain power and control of the other. It is not about anger, or substance abuse, it is about power and control.

Our Family Law Unit provides high quality legal representation and advocacy to low-income residents of Genesee, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, and Wayne Counties in family law matters. We strive to support survivors, end domestic violence, and reduce poverty among our clients through legal representation. We advocate on behalf of our clients in a variety of family law issues, including:

  • Protection from Abuse (including domestic violence, elder abuse, and intimate partner violence)
    • Legal Services and Counseling
    • Assistance with Family Court Orders of Protection
  • Child Support
  • Custody
  • Divorce
    • Visitation
    • Paternity
    • Spousal Support
    • Other Family Law Matters

    In addition to representing clients in Monroe County Family Court, our Family Law Unit contributes to our areas coordinated community response by offering technical assistance to community service providers. 

    How can I get help with a Family Law matter?

    For more information, or to apply for assistance, contact our office at 585.232.4090

    If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, you may be in an abusive relationship. No one has the right to abuse you. Help, support and information are available to you through The Legal Aid Society & Willow Domestic Violence Center. Please, call Willow’s confidential, 24-hour Hotline at (585) 222-SAFE.

    Has your current or former partner ever:

    • Acted toward you in any way that makes you feel afraid?
    • Followed you, checked up on you, and/or frequently monitored your whereabouts?
    • Threatened your children, your family members, your friends, and/or your pets?
    • Threatened you with a weapon of any kind?
    • Hit, kicked, slapped, pushed, or threatened to harm or kill you?