child custody modification

Can Remarriage Affect Child Custody in North Carolina?

Published on: August 26, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Divorce is not the end of love; most divorced people will eventually remarry. In fact, a survey conducted by Pew Research Center found that 64% to 66% of divorced people will get married again. On average, a second marriage occurs about four years after divorce. As a parent, you likely have many concerns and questions about how remarriage will affect child custody, visitation, and support.

Remarriage and Custody

One parent getting married again does not automatically warrant a change or even a review of child custody. Remarriage itself is not considered a substantial change in circumstances. However, sometimes remarriage brings changes that could be cause for a custody review. Either parent may request a review and modification of child custody under certain conditions. These include:

What are the Requirements for a Child Custody Modification in North Carolina?

Published on: September 24, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What are the Requirements for a Child Custody Modification in North Carolina?

When parents get divorced, one of the main issues that must be resolved is child custody. In North Carolina, both parents are generally considered equal when it comes to their children. Both parents typically have legal custody, so they are both allowed to make important decisions on behalf of their child. Physical custody is a little more complex. In many cases, parents share custody, with one being designated as the primary custodial parent. Child custody and visitation are usually made part of a divorce order. There may be times when a parent feels the need to modify a child custody order.

Why Do We Need to Modify a Child Custody Order?

New Shared Parenting Law In Missouri Forbids Courts From Presuming Mothers Are More Fit Caregivers

Published on: September 8, 2016 | 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?”

A new “shared parenting” law in Missouri has further chipped away at the age-old assumption that the mother is the most fit primary caregiver in custody disputes: judges are now forbidden to base custody decisions on the gender of either parent. The state’s courts are also now required to develop statewide guidelines that will maximize the amount of time the child or children may spend with each parent.