In a recent episode of The Attorney Post, seasoned New York attorney David Zaslavsky provided an in-depth look at the complex world of family and matrimonial law. Practicing since 2003 and founder of David Zaslavsky PLLC, Zaslavsky shared key insights into a career dedicated to guiding families through some of the most emotionally and legally difficult situations they may ever face. With over two decades of experience, he continues to represent clients with custody disputes, divorce cases, and legal interactions involving the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS).
Zaslavsky is among the few private attorneys in New York who simultaneously manage matrimonial and custody cases while understanding the intricacies of ACS. His unique knowledge allows him to represent parents effectively—especially when facing issues with child protection services. During the podcast, he highlighted the importance of this niche specialization, noting that many attorneys are not equipped to navigate the legal complexities tied to child welfare agencies.
Zaslavsky's journey to law began early, sparked by a mock court experience in middle school. After graduating from NYU with a degree in history and earning his JD from Brooklyn Law School, he took on a variety of roles in family law, from clerking to document drafting, eventually launching his own practice. He described how family law requires a courtroom presence nearly three times a week—evidence of its intense demands.
The COVID-19 pandemic added more challenges to an already burdened system. Zaslavsky detailed how courts shut down entirely in March 2020, forcing the legal profession to modernize rapidly. Many custody cases became volatile, with parents making unilateral decisions about relocations during lockdowns, often violating custody agreements. He stressed that these disruptions had lasting legal and emotional consequences for families.
One of the most pressing issues Zaslavsky addressed was international custody battles. He explained the difference between Hague and non-Hague countries, referencing countries like China and Russia where the retrieval of abducted children is particularly difficult. These legal battles require both diplomatic channels and expert legal maneuvering, often stretching beyond the scope of traditional custody litigation.
Another major theme of the interview was the role and funding structure of ACS. Zaslavsky raised concerns about how financial incentives tied to foster care placements might lead to questionable decisions. With ACS’s $3.2 billion budget and policies allowing federal reimbursement per child placed in foster care, he expressed skepticism about the motivations behind certain agency actions. He also questioned the quality of personnel at CPS, pointing out that the minimal educational requirements and high turnover rates can impact family outcomes.
As a solution-oriented practitioner, Zaslavsky emphasized the value of legal counsel when dealing with ACS. He urged parents to seek immediate legal representation if contacted by the agency to avoid missteps that could jeopardize their parental rights.
Technology’s role in family law also came under discussion. Social media has increasingly become a source of evidence in divorce and custody cases. Zaslavsky shared examples of clients undermining their legal claims by posting content that contradicts their sworn statements—such as claiming financial hardship while flaunting luxury purchases online.
The podcast also delved into New York’s child support laws, which Zaslavsky critiqued as outdated and unfair. He noted that support calculations don’t account for federal withholding, often forcing non-custodial parents to pay a larger percentage of their take-home pay. Combined with the high cost of living in New York City, this creates a significant burden for many parents trying to meet their financial obligations.
Despite these challenges, Zaslavsky remains committed to helping families find solutions. He emphasized that settlement is preferable in 99% of cases due to the unpredictability of court outcomes and the emotional toll of litigation. However, he acknowledged the ethical dilemmas attorneys face when clients insist on proceeding against sound legal advice.
Zaslavsky closed with a call for greater awareness and reform. From the structure of child support to ACS practices and legal accessibility across the U.S., his discussion highlighted the pressing need for change in how family law is practiced and how families are supported in the legal system.
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