Jennifer Hames

Why Halloween Can Become a Point of Conflict For many families, Halloween is a time of costumes, candy, and fun. But for co-parents, this holiday can highlight differences in beliefs, parenting styles, and schedules. One parent may view Halloween as harmless fun, while another has religious or personal concerns about celebrating. Disagreements may also arise […]

When Custody Agreements Break Down Custody agreements are designed to provide structure and stability for children after a divorce or separation. They establish when each parent will spend time with the child, how decisions will be made, and what responsibilities each parent carries. But what happens when one parent doesn’t follow the rules? Whether it’s

Custody disputes are never easy, but when conflict escalates, the effects on children can be profound. High-conflict custody battles expose children to ongoing tension, uncertainty, and stress. In some cases, children may feel caught in the middle, pressured to take sides, or forced to adapt to constant changes in their daily lives. The emotional toll

Divorce does more than separate two people, it also untangles the financial ties that held a marriage together. For many couples, one spouse has earned significantly more than the other, creating questions about how both individuals will support themselves once the marriage ends. In North Carolina, spousal support, commonly known as alimony, is designed to

Divorce is one of the most difficult transitions a family can face. Beyond the legal paperwork, it brings emotional strain, financial challenges, and uncertainty about the future. Couples often feel overwhelmed by the weight of dividing assets, determining custody, and redefining their lives. For children, the conflict and tension surrounding divorce can be especially damaging.

When same-sex marriage became legal in North Carolina in 2014, with the nation ruling following shortly after, it marked a turning point for LGBTQ+ families across the state. Marriage equality meant that same-sex couples could marry and begin to enjoy many of the same rights as heterosexual couples. However, child custody laws have not always

Domestic violence is never just a private matter, it’s a serious legal issue that impacts safety, emotional well-being, and family stability. If you or someone you love is experiencing abuse, knowing how North Carolina law defines domestic violence is the first step toward protection and empowerment. At Lincolnton Family Law, we recognize the courage it

One of the most difficult aspects of separation or divorce is determining child custody. As a parent, you want what’s best for your child, and when they express a desire to live with one parent over the other, it’s natural to wonder how much say they actually have. Can a child choose which parent to

For many blended families, adopting a stepchild is more than just a legal formality, it’s an expression of love, commitment, and belonging. If you have been raising your spouse’s child as your own, you may want to take the legal step of becoming their official parent. In North Carolina, stepchild adoption creates the same legal

Family law matters are deeply personal. Whether you are going through a divorce, navigating child custody arrangements, or seeking protection from domestic violence, the outcome will shape the future of your family. In moments like these, you need more than just a lawyer, you need an advocate who understands your struggles, protects your rights, and