Child Custody

What are the Rights of Unmarried Parents?

Published on: May 11, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “How is the amount of child support decided in North Carolina?”

The family dynamic has been changing over the last several decades. Today it is much more acceptable to give birth to children out of wedlock. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, approximately 40.5% of all live births in the United States in 2020 were to unmarried women. While there are many children born to single parents, there are many issues that may arise in regards to child care, custody, support, and visitation. Both parents need to understand their obligations, responsibilities and rights when it comes to their biological children.

What is Parental Kidnapping?

Published on: March 23, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: ” I’m considering separating from my spouse; what actions should I refrain from doing?”

As a parent, you want to do everything you can to protect your child and keep them safe from all types of harm. Parents keep watch over their children in all circumstances to ensure their safety. The word “kidnapping” brings terrifying thoughts of a child being torn away from a parent without hope of reuniting. While kidnapping by a stranger can happen, it is a rare occurrence. The most frequent type of child kidnapping happens when a non-custodial parent takes the child or refuses to return a child after visitation. Parental kidnapping is a serious concern for many parents. When a parent takes their own child away from a custodial parent, the situation can best be described as parental kidnapping.

Parenting Time in North Carolina

Published on: March 9, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “Can I keep my Kids from seeing the other parent?”

One of the most difficult parts of a divorce is having to spend time away from your children. Divorce can make life difficult for everyone. The key to a successful transition is to resolve matters regarding parenting time so that both parents get to have regular time with their children. When you establish a new schedule, kids will often quickly adapt and will get used to their new normal. Both parents should make an attempt to come to an agreement regarding parenting time and other key decisions regarding their children. An experienced divorce attorney will help you create a parenting plan that works.

Can I Relocate With My Child?

Published on: December 15, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “What are my custody rights if the other parent moves?”

Parenting following a divorce can be complicated. While both parents may share legal custody of their children, they usually live primarily with one parent. The non-custodial parent usually has visitation with their children on a regular basis. Most often, children live relatively close to both parents, so visitation is not an issue. However, what happens when a parent with primary residential custody wants to move away? There are many factors that can come up when a parent wants to move with a child. A knowledgeable family law attorney will assist you and provide guidance for handling a move with a child following divorce.

Can I Get an Emergency Child Custody Order?

Published on: November 24, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “What can I do to gain custody of my child in North Carolina?”

Divorce is never easy, but when you have children, divorce can be much more complicated. There are many issues that involve the kids, and parents must work to resolve them as best they can. Of all the many matters that pertain to children in divorce, one of the most important and the most urgent is the issue of where the children will reside. Usually, children will remain with one parent while parents work out the divorce. This is generally an acceptable solution for the short-term. However, there are some instances in which a parent may want to make sure that they obtain an immediate custody order. This is called an emergency child custody order or an ex-parte request.

Child Custody FAQs for North Carolina Residents

Published on: September 15, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “What are my custody rights if the other parent moves?”

What You Need to Know About Child Dependency in North Carolina

Published on: June 16, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “Can I keep my Kids from seeing the other parent?”

What to Do if You Suspect Your Partner is Trying to Alienate You From Your Child

Published on: June 2, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: ” I’m considering separating from my spouse; what actions should I refrain from doing?”

When Can I File for Emergency Child Custody in North Carolina?

Published on: March 31, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “How can an attorney help me with my Divorce or Separation in North Carolina?”

How to Enforce a Child Custody Order in North Carolina?

Published on: March 3, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “What can I do to gain custody of my child in North Carolina?”