This program takes a fresh approach to some of the basics of family court practice. You will learn suggested methodologies for how to handle a custody case and will become familiar with the role of the Attorney for the Child. The basics of child neglect and abuse proceedings under Article 10 of the Family Court Act are also covered.

Ethical issues, with specific attention to the types of proceedings in which the best interests of children are at the forefront of the Court’s concern, are also discussed.


Program Topics

• How to Handle a Custody Case, Part I: The Basic Elements

• The Appointment and Use of Attorney for the Child

• How to Handle a Custody Case, Part II

• Article 10 Proceedings

• Ethics in Matrimonial and Family Law


Program Faculty

Jennifer Powers Rutkey, Esq. (Program Chair and Speaker)
Gordon, Tepper & DeCoursey, LLP
—Glenville

Hon. W. Dennis Duggan 
Albany County Family Court Judge
—Albany

Michael P. Friedman, Esq.
Friedman & Molinsek PC
—Delmar

Hon. G. Douglas Griset
Retired Schenectady County Family Court Judge
—Schenectady

Hon. James A. Montagnino, Esq.
Court Attorney/Referee
Law Clerk To Hon. Catherine Cholakis
Rensselaer County Family Court
—Troy


Total MCLE Credits 7.0
Ethics MCLE Credits 1.0