Albemarle Child Custody Lawyer

Albemarle Child Custody Attorney

Going through a divorce or separation can already be a difficult experience, but when you add children to the mix, it can become much more complicated. As one of the most complex areas of family law, navigating child custody on your own is not easy. Instead, let an Albemarle, NC, child custody lawyer at Lehnhardt Price Family Law help.

When couples separate or share children when not romantically involved, child custody arrangements occur to determine who should care for the child and in what capacity. The court looks at multiple factors to determine child custody, and you may need to present your case to a judge. In addition to helping you understand complex laws, our firm can reduce stress and advocate for your child’s best interests.

Except in cases of domestic violence and child abuse, children generally benefit by having both parents in their lives, but sometimes, shared custody is not feasible. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. In 2022, 13.9 million parents lived with 22.2 million children, while the child’s other parent lived elsewhere. Whatever your situation, having a custody agreement can make things easier.

How Lehnhardt Price Family Law Can Help

At Lehnhardt Price Family Law,, we know how family court works, and we are prepared to protect your rights. When you hire a child custody lawyer at our firm, we can help you with legal procedures, gathering evidence, and negotiation, especially when there are disagreements with the other parent. No matter your circumstances, we tailor solutions to your unique situation.

Some law firms fall short on communication, but not us. With local familiarity and extensive knowledge in child custody cases, we have the resources and background to create a healthy and balanced child custody arrangement for your family. If things get challenging in the courtroom, we are here to answer all of your questions and keep you informed.

What Is Child Custody?

Child custody is the legal and physical responsibility for a child under 18, which a court determines through a legal custody process based on the child’s best interests. In North Carolina, child custody is the legal and practical process of determining a child’s living situation and parental decision-making rights.

State courts often default to a 50/50 custody arrangement where both parents share equal custody unless there are reasons why the court would see one parent as unfit. Custody orders also often define a primary custodian to handle daily decisions; however, the other parent typically retains the right to remain involved in the child’s life.

Child Custody Process

In Albemarle, the child custody process begins by filing a complaint with the Stanly County Courthouse on Second Street. There is also a state residency requirement that the child must have lived in North Carolina for at least six months prior to filing for the child custody arrangement. You may reach an agreement or go to trial. Court proceedings include:

• Discovery. Parents often engage in discovery, which involves exchanging information and sometimes taking depositions.
• Trial. If parents cannot agree on a parenting plan, the case goes to trial, where a judge decides custody based on the child’s best interests.
• Guardian ad litem. Depending on the circumstances of your case, the court may appoint a GAL to represent the child’s best interests.

Parents have the option of trying to reach an agreement through mediation, but if they cannot, a judge will make the final decision. Before filing, you need to establish paternity and file the case in the applicable county filing location. A judge can issue temporary orders, and a permanent custody order will come after a final decision is made.

Custody Arrangements

One of the biggest reasons to need an Albemarle, NC, child custody lawyer is when parting ways with the other parent and determining your custody arrangement. Among couples, this is often a major area of conflict. Nonetheless, this is a time when it is important to cooperate with the court and your child’s other parent. The court usually mandates one of the following custody arrangements:

• Primary custody
• Partial custody
• Visitation
• Shared custody

Custody arrangements vary because no two families are the same. In the United States, 63% of children live with both of their biological parents, and 25% live with one parent. Because the court determines custody arrangements using the best interests of the child, the judge will evaluate factors such as the child’s age, the relationship with each parent, and each parent’s stability.

Why Should I Hire a Child Custody Lawyer?

Hiring an Albemarle child custody attorney at Lehnhardt Price Family Law can not only protect your parental rights and help you handle the complexities of family law, but it can also help expedite a faster resolution, reduce the stress of the legal process, and ensure all paperwork is correct. Legal representation can be especially important in cases with safety concerns and other complications.

FAQs About Albemarle, CA Child Custody Law

What Does the Court Consider an Unstable Parent in NC?

According to North Carolina child custody laws, the court may determine that a parent is unstable if their behavior or condition negatively impacts the child’s well-being, looking at factors such as abuse, neglect, substance abuse, criminal history, and mental health issues. When assessing parental instability, child safety, environmental stability, and meeting basic needs are key determinants.

Do I Need a Lawyer for Child Custody in NC?

The law does require you to hire a child custody lawyer, but having one is highly recommended because child custody cases can become complicated. Having a lawyer on your side can help you prepare arguments and advocate for your child’s best interests while also meeting deadlines and handling the emotional difficulties that often come with child custody cases.

How Do I Win a Child Custody Case in North Carolina?

To win a North Carolina child custody case, it is essential to focus on demonstrating that you can provide a stable and nurturing environment for your child. To do this, you must show consistent caregiving, strong involvement in your child’s life, and an ability to co-parent. You should also avoid conflict and present yourself in a positive and reasonable light.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Most people want what is in the best interests of their child, but establishing a fair and balanced custody arrangement can be challenging. If you are facing questions about child custody, contact our Albemarle, NC, child custody lawyer at Lehnhardt Price Family Law to schedule a consultation and start preparing for your child’s future today.