At Laterra & Hodge, LLC, we provide legal assistance for fathers who are going through divorce, child custody, child support, and other related family law processes. Unfortunately, when establishing the terms of divorce, there is often a bias toward women. Our team believes in taking a firm stand on behalf of fathers who are entitled to just as much, if not more, rights as the mother. No case is too complex for us to handle and, if your situation must be handled in the courtroom, we are prepared to provide the aggressive advocacy you need. Rest-assured that when you work with our firm, we will do everything within our power to protect your rights as a father, preserve the relationships you have established with your children, and help you obtain the outcome you are seeking.
Actively Protecting the
Rights of Fathers
At Laterra & Hodge, LLC, we believe in taking a stand on behalf of the fathers throughout and the surrounding areas. Call now.
Begin with a Consultation-
Experienced
With plenty of experience representing fathers, we know what it takes to protect your rights and ensure your process goes as smoothly as possible.
-
Skilled
Seasoned and skilled in negotiation and litigation practices, we can represent you whether your case is handled in or out of the courtroom.
-
Passionate
We genuinely care about our clients and are passionate about doing all we can to look out for the best interests of you and your children.
Fathers’ Rights Attorney
We Proudly Represent Fathers Just Like You: (201) 977-6855
You Matter to Your Child
We know that as a father, you hold a significant importance in your child’s life. In fact, there are countless studies that demonstrate the negative impacts that can occur when a father is not present in their child’s life.
-
Children without fathers are more likely to use illegal drugs.
-
Children without fathers are more likely to drop out of school.
-
Children from fatherless families are more likely to commit domestic violence.
You May Be Wondering...
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Questions
-
What are fathers’ rights?
Answer
As the biological father of a child, you automatically have fathers’ rights. These rights enable you to obtain custody or visitation of your child, so that you can have guaranteed time with them. Unfortunately, fathers’ rights are often overlooked, as the mother is typically appointed as primary custodian of the child.
-
What are mistakes I should avoid making as a father?
Answer
There are a number of common mistakes fathers make that could lead to losing custody or visitation, but these mistakes can be avoided. Such mistakes may include moving out of the home where your child lives, living in a messy home, not maintaining a steady job or income, and not taking a stand against a mother who establishes an order of protection charge.
-
Will I have to take my case to court?
Answer
Your case does not have to be handled in court. However, it is not uncommon for fathers’ rights cases to need to be resolved in the courtroom. For example, your former spouse may try to retaliate against you by fighting against your rights to obtain custody. If your case must go to court, our team is prepared to aggressively defend your rights, and we will do everything we can to help you obtain the outcome you deserve.
-
Why do I need an attorney?
Answer
The family law system can be complicated, and fathers’ rights cases can be especially personal and overwhelming. 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 protect your rights and meet you and your child’s unique needs.
-
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.
-
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
-
“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
-
“ 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
-
“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
-
“Scott gave me trustworthy advise and comfort during a nerve racking situation. Very professional and reliable from what I've experienced so far.”
Luis