N.Y. Family Court Act § 235: Compensation and liability for support and care in counties within the city of New York

§ 235. Compensation and liability for support and care in counties

within the city of New York. (a) Upon the detention, placement or

commitment of a child by the family court in a county within the city of

New York to a public or private institution other than a shelter

maintained and conducted by a society for the prevention of cruelty to

children, the department of social services of the city of New York

shall investigate the ability of the parent of the child, or other

person legally chargeable, to contribute in whole or in part to the

expense incurred by the city of New York on account of the maintenance

of such child.

(b) If in the opinion of the department of social services such parent

or legal custodian is able to contribute in whole or in part the

commissioner of social services shall thereupon institute a proceeding

in the family court to compel such parent or person legally chargeable

to contribute such portion of such expense on account of maintenance of

such child as shall be proper and just.