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Raleigh Child Custody & Parenting Time Lawyers

As a Raleigh child custody law office, we find that many of you may have questions regarding how child custody cases and parenting time (also called “visitation”) matters are determined in North Carolina. We can help you navigate through the legal process of a Raleigh child custody case. The following is some information regarding child custody laws in North Carolina that you may find helpful. It is important to remember that each custody situation is unique just like your child; therefore, it is extra important that you talk to a lawyer.

Custody agreements in North Carolina

Regarding child custody in North Carolina, if both the father and the mother agree to child custody or parenting time arrangement, they can agree to enter a written agreement or order with the Court that states the terms of the arrangement. If a custody action is filed with the Court, with some exceptions, the father and mother are required to attend mediation. If the parents agree to child custody a parenting agreement will be drafted by the mediator and presented to the Court for submission. If entered by the court the parenting agreement then becomes a permanent order for custody which can then only be modified due to a substantial change of circumstance which affects the child.

In North Carolina, physical custody can be awarded as sole physical custody, joint physical custody or as shared custody arrangements. In addition to some form of physical custody, both parties are generally awarded joint legal custody of their children, allowing them to participate equally in the education, medical and religious decisions for their children.

If both parents cannot agree as to North Carolina custody and parenting time, the “best interests of the child factors”, are the factors used by the Court making a custody award.

Serving Raleigh clients for more than 50 years

Hatch, Little & Bunn, LLP has provided comprehensive legal services to individuals and businesses in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Research Triangle Park, Wake County and throughout North Carolina from offices by the state capitol for over half a century. Our divorce attorneys are licensed to practice before all North Carolina state and federal courts. Call (919) 899-9827 today, or contact us online to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys about your concerns.

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