If you are here, you are probably not looking for an advantage.
You are looking for protection.
Maybe your child is being exposed to chaos.
Maybe there is alcoholism, addiction, instability, neglect, or emotional harm.
Maybe your gut tells you something is wrong and getting worse.
And the question you are quietly asking is this:
Can I get full custody in New Jersey?
Sometimes, the answer is yes.
Full custody is rare. But it exists for a reason
New Jersey courts strongly prefer that both parents remain involved in a child’s life.
Full custody is not granted because of anger.
Not because of betrayal.
Not because a marriage failed.
It is granted only when a parent proves that:
The child’s health, safety, or emotional well-being is at serious risk.
That is a high legal burden.
And it should be.
What judges actually care about in full custody cases
Every case turns on facts, proof, and credibility.
Not mere accusations.
A judge will usually look closely at issues such as:
• Substance abuse or untreated mental illness
• Domestic violence or threats
• Serious neglect or abandonment
• Repeated violations of court orders
• Dangerous living conditions
• A parent’s inability to meet daily needs
• The child’s emotional and physical safety
Full custody is never automatic.
It must be earned through evidence.
The truth most parents need to hear
You cannot win full custody by “wanting it badly enough.”
And no lawyer can ever guarantee a custody outcome.
Judges decide these cases carefully, conservatively, and based on proof.
What can be controlled is:
• How your concerns are legally framed
• What evidence is presented to the Judge
• How the child’s risk is documented
• And how the case is presented in court
Handled properly, children are protected.
Handled poorly, dangerous situations can continue for far too long.
I have spent 37 years handling high-risk custody cases
For 37 years, I
have represented parents in some of the most emotionally charged custody battles in New Jersey.
I understand the fear.
I understand the urgency.
And I understand the legal standard that must be met.
If your child may not be safe, time matters.
And so does how your case is built.
I get it.
And I am here to help.
A quiet next step
If you are worried about your child’s safety and want to understand:
• Whether full custody may be legally realistic
• What evidence matters most
• And what your next move should be
You are welcome to contact my office for a confidential discussion.
There are no guarantees in court.
But there is preparation, strategy, and experienced judgment.
And sometimes, that makes the difference that protects a child.
Steve
Steven J. Kaplan, Esq.
Specializing In Custody & Divorce
Throughout New Jersey
5 Professional Circle
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
(732) 845-9010
www.KaplanDivorce.com
