Child Custody in North Carolina
When parents separate or divorce, determining child custody arrangements is often one of the most emotionally challenging aspects of the process. At Eatmon Law Firm, PC, we understand that your children’s well-being is your top priority, and we’re here to help you navigate North Carolina’s custody laws with compassion and skill.
Understanding Custody Types in North Carolina
North Carolina recognizes two distinct types of custody that work together to create your parenting arrangement:
Legal Custody refers to the authority to make major decisions about your child’s life, including education, healthcare, religious upbringing, and extracurricular activities. This can be awarded solely to one parent or shared jointly between both parents.
Physical Custody determines where your child will live and spend their time. Physical custody can range from equal time-sharing arrangements to primary residence with one parent and scheduled visitation with the other.
The Best Interests of the Child Standard
North Carolina courts make all custody decisions based on what serves the best interests of the child. Judges consider numerous factors when making these determinations, including:
- Each parent’s ability to provide a stable, nurturing environment
- The existing relationship between the child and each parent
- The child’s adjustment to home, school, and community
- The mental and physical health of all parties involved
- Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse
- The child’s preferences, depending on their age and maturity level
Creating Effective Parenting Plans
A well-crafted parenting plan serves as your roadmap for co-parenting successfully. These comprehensive documents address not only where your child will spend their time, but also how you’ll handle holidays, vacations, school events, and day-to-day decisions. Our experienced attorneys help families create detailed parenting plans that minimize future conflicts and provide clarity for all involved.
When Circumstances Change
Life doesn’t stand still after a custody order is entered. When significant changes occur—such as job relocations, remarriage, or changes in a child’s needs—modifications to existing custody arrangements may be necessary. We assist parents in seeking modifications when circumstances warrant changes to existing orders.
High-Conflict Custody Situations
Some custody cases involve ongoing disputes that make traditional negotiations challenging. Christine Eatmon serves as a certified Parenting Coordinator, helping high-conflict families develop better communication strategies and resolve disputes outside of court. This specialized service can help reduce stress on children and parents while creating more cooperative co-parenting relationships.
Child Support Considerations
Custody arrangements directly impact child support obligations in North Carolina. We ensure that support calculations are accurate and fair, taking into account each parent’s income, custody schedule, and the child’s specific needs.
Your Next Steps
Every family’s situation is unique, and cookie-cutter solutions rarely work in custody matters. The knowledgeable attorneys at Eatmon Law Firm, PC take time to understand your family’s specific circumstances and goals, helping you pursue custody arrangements that truly serve your children’s best interests.
Contact our Wake Forest office at 919-435-0565 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help protect your parental rights and your children’s future.