Child Custody Lawyer : Lincolnton Family Law

Child Custody Law in North Carolina

Custody is the legal and physical care and supervision of a child under 18 years of age.  Physical custody describes the person with whom the child lives on a day-to-day basis.  Legal custody which describes the person who has the right to make major decisions concerning the child; including decisions about education, health care, and religion.

  • Who will get custody?
  • Will I get joint or sole custody?
  • What rights to grandparents have for custody?
  • Will my child have to speak in court?
  • Will my child have input on custody?

These are only a few questions that are important factors in divorce cases involving child custody. In North Carolina, temporary custody is often the first step to beginning the custodial process.  After temporary custody is established, mediation is required before the parties can go back before the court for a permanent custody trial.

During mediation, parents come to an agreement on custody issues. Many times the end result is better from mediation than a court hearing.

In cases where an agreement cannot be decided, the courts will then render an order. Judges have wide discretion in awarding child custody. This can be the scariest part of a divorce for a parent since the order is binding and control of the outcome is never guaranteed. If you are in need of Child Custody legal services in North Carolina contact Lincolnton family law today.

Custody Modification

Child Custody can always be modified in North Carolina by showing to the court a substantial change of circumstances.  Whether its a change in the visitation schedule, relocation of the other parent, or a different factor, the Court can modify a custody order to reflect the new circumstances and the best interest of your child.

Why Use Lincolnton Family Law as Your Child Custody Attorney?

As a parent, Jennifer understands your anxiety and questions about how the process works. As your attorney, she understands the legal requirements and will ensure you and your child(ren) receive the best representation.

Rather than using a large firm where you may have to wait days for a return phone call and spend hours frustrated, Jennifer is local which means you have a real person that can answer your questions and allow you to focus on the importance of your family’s future. We are a premier child custody law firm located conveniently at 1446 Gaston St Suite 104, Lincolnton, NC 28092

What does a child custody attorney do in North Carolina?

A child custody attorney helps parents establish, modify, and enforce custody arrangements. This includes representing you in court, guiding you through mediation, and ensuring your parental rights are protected while prioritizing your child’s best interests.

How is child custody decided in North Carolina?

North Carolina courts decide custody based on the best interests of the child. Judges consider factors like each parent’s living situation, stability, involvement in the child’s life, and ability to provide care. Courts have broad discretion when making custody decisions.

What is the difference between legal and physical custody?

  • Physical custody determines where the child lives day-to-day
  • Legal custody gives a parent the authority to make major decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, and upbringing

What is the difference between sole custody and joint custody?

  • Sole custody means one parent has primary decision-making authority or primary residence
  • Joint custody means both parents share responsibilities for raising the child

 

Do parents have to go to mediation for child custody in North Carolina?

Yes. In most cases, North Carolina requires parents to attend custody mediation before going to trial. Mediation helps parents reach an agreement outside of court, which often leads to better outcomes and less conflict.

Can a child custody order be modified?

Yes. Custody orders can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as relocation, changes in a parent’s schedule, or concerns about the child’s well-being.

Related Legal Services

Child Support

Child Support is based on parties income. A good attorney will explore any additional income sources, extraordinary expenses, or request a deviation based on your individual circumstances. In North Carolina child custody is determined by using a standard whereby the judge will determine the best interest of the child.

Guardian Ad Litem

Divorce is one of the three hardest things for a child to experience before adulthood. A Guardian Ad Litem is often used to represent your child in a custody proceeding. This avoids your child having to testify in court or allows an independent third party to investigate issues effecting the child.

Absolute Divorce

An absolute divorce is the simplest part of the process. However, once a divorce is finalized, certain rights under North Carolina law no longer exist. We are happy to speak to you about your individual case to ensure you understand the process from start to finish and not overlook any potential legal rights in the process.

What Our Clients Say About Us

Jennifer did an excellent job with my child custody. She kept me informed and made sure my child was safe throughout the process. This isn’t just a job to her, she cares about her clients.
Allison
Jennifer and her staff handled my custody and separation matters. She was very knowledgeable and provided me with the information I needed during a highly contested divorce. She did an excellent job in court and I was well represented through the entire case. Would highly recommend.
Michelle
Jennifer resolved my case quickly and inexpensively. She always appeared in court early and ten times more prepared than the other attorney. We won a very complicated case and I would recommend Jennifer to anyone.
Keith

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