Reuniting after Loss: Ilana’s Move Back to NYC
Ten-year-old Ilana was living in the Dominican Republic when her mother died unexpectedly. Her father, who she hadn’t seen in years, petitioned for custody. With assistance from our bilingual social worker and legal assistants, we were able to work together with the maternal relatives in the Dominican Republic to assist them in filing for guardianship and, in the meantime, to schedule opportunities for Ilana to get re-acquainted with her father.
Through advocacy and establishing trust with our client, we supported Ilana through a time of transition. Ilana eventually moved back to New York with her father – on her own terms.
Background
International custody matters are governed by both NYS Family Court laws and the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.
CLC helped navigate the requirements for international coordination while preserving Ilana’s rights and ensuring a safe, gradual transition.