Going through divorce is stressful enough and, when children are involved, the process can become especially complicated. At Laterra & Hodge, LLC, our team genuinely cares about providing clients with the guidance they need to work through their child custody case as favorably as possible. Highly skilled in both negotiation and litigation, we are prepared to represent you if your case must be handled in the courtroom. Whether you and your former spouse are able to establish the terms of your child custody arrangement amicably, or your situation must be handled in front of a judge, you can be confident that your case will be in highly qualified hands when you turn to our firm for assistance.
Compassionate & Experienced
Custody Lawyer
At , we know that there is nothing more important than preserving the relationships you have built with your children.
Begin with a Consultation-
Experienced
With plenty of experience handling countless child custody cases, we know what it takes to ensure your process goes as smoothly as possible.
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Skilled
Seasoned and skilled in negotiation and litigation, we can represent you whether your custody case must be resolved in or out of the courtroom.
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Passionate
We genuinely care about our clients and are passionate about doing all we can to ensure the interests of you and your children are protected.
Child Custody Attorney
Our Mission Is to Protect What Matters Most: (201) 977-6855
How Is Custody Determined?
First and foremost, determining who will get custody is based on the best interests of the child. However, what is in the best interests of the child actually depends on a number of factors.
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Environment
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Parent-Child Relationships
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Health of All Parties
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Health & Developmental Adjustments
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Child’s Living Pattern
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Child’s Preference
You May Be Wondering...
Frequently Asked Questions
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Questions
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Is custody granted to only one parent?
Answer
Not always. It is actually common for courts to grant at least partial custody to both parents—also known as joint custody. While joint physical custody refers to the child spending a substantial amount of time with each parent, joint legal custody refers to the parents determining important decisions together, such as those involving medical, educational and religious matters.
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Will I have to take my case to court?
Answer
It is not uncommon for a child custody case to need to be taken to court. When you work with our firm, we will try to help you reach an amicable resolution; however, this is not always possible. If you are unable to resolve your case peacefully, we are prepared to represent you in court, where we will ensure your rights and your child’s interests are protected.
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Can anyone other than a parent obtain custody?
Answer
In some situations, parties other than the child’s parents may wish to obtain custody, such as grandparents, an aunt, uncle, or family friend. This may be referred to as non-parental or third-party custody, and is often closely related to obtaining guardianship the child.
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Why do I need an attorney?
Answer
The family law system can be complicated, and child custody processes can be personal and emotional. You need a lawyer who will guide you through the family law system, ensure your process goes as smoothly as possible, and help you reach a solution that is tailored to meet you and your child’s unique needs.
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SCOTT ADAM LATERRA, ESQ.
Founding Attorney
At Laterra & Hodge, LLC, we recognize the stress and frustration that accompanies family conflict. The sense of betrayal and fear of uncertainty that derives from divorce, separation, and domestic violence can be overwhelming. As a firm whose family lawyers have always practiced exclusively in the area of family law, Laterra & Hodge, LLC is fully prepared to assist you with every aspect of your matter with a time tested approach premised on integrity, diplomacy, empathy, advocacy, and legal knowledge.
We proudly serve families throughout Bergen County, handling all issues in divorce proceedings, as well as issues outside of the divorce arena, including a range of disputes, claims, and agreements.
Only approximately 2% of all attorneys in New Jersey are Certified Matrimonial Trial Attorneys. Less than 100 attorneys in New Jersey are fellows of the highly acclaimed American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Scott Adam Laterra, Esq., a partner with Laterra & Hodge, LLC, is both.
Our Hackensack family law attorneys recognize the importance of remaining credentialed and educated on the latest trends and changes in divorce and family law. The more information we have to offer you, the more you will be able to prepare for your future and do away with the uncertainty that comes with being thrown into the unfamiliar territory of divorce.
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JEFFREY B. HODGE, ESQ.
Founding Attorney
With over 25 years of combined experience, our attorneys, are not only well-versed in law, but understand the stress and unique challenges that come with facing issues that can permanently change your future. As part of the 2% of Certified Matrimonial Trial Attorneys, as well as the less than 100 New Jersey lawyers who are members of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Scott Adam Laterra is well-equipped to guide you through your matters.
Jeffrey is a former judicial law clerk with the Honorable Diane Pincus, Judge of the Superior Court, Family Part, Middlesex County, New Jersey. Since beginning his legal career, Jeff has practiced exclusively in the area of family law, at both the trial court and appellate level, representing clients in diverse matters involving. You can be confident in his ability to handle your case next.
The Client Experience
Hear Directly Form Our Former Clients
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“He put me at ease and explained the motions of my divorce during times where I felt frustrated. He is compassionate and very easy to talk to. I recommend LaTerra and Hodge to anyone looking for a matrimonial attorney.”
Maria
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“ I have to say that the legal work and the representation I received from Mr Hodge was second to none. I highly recommend using Jeff, I hired a lawyer and gained a life long friend.”
Joe
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“From start till the end they were there for me. There were very reasonable in their billing as well. I wish there are more law firms like them. I highly recommend them.”
Salman M
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“Scott gave me trustworthy advise and comfort during a nerve racking situation. Very professional and reliable from what I've experienced so far.”
Luis