My question is concerning child custody laws in New York. A friend of mine is in a bad marriage, they have a 15 month old little girl. His spouse is verbally and just recently physically abusive. No cops were involved but he wants to end his marriage but he doesn't want to leave the baby behind. What steps must he take? He is the sole income and the main caregiver at home. Also he can provide a new stable home with guaranteed childcare when he works. I know a lot is involved and he doesn't want to take her away completely of course just have main custody. Any help that you could offer would be helpful. He isn't a mean guy so he isn't trying to take the child to spite the wife, but based on all the facts I know the best thing for the child would be for him to have main custody. Any ideas?

