Deciding on child custody: Hire a family law attorney

If you want to file for divorce in North Carolina, you are required to fulfil residency and separation requirements. You and your spouse must be living apart and separately (in two different residences) for at least a year, before filing for divorce. Also, either (or both) of the spouses must be living in NC for at least six months prior to divorce filing. Once you have filed for divorce, there will be a wait time, where the court will expect you and your spouse to resolve important matters and sign an acceptable separation agreement. When it comes to child custody, courts in NC usually encourage co-parents to decide on a custody agreement. At this point, you may want to consult a Charlotte family law attorney.

Child custody is not about you

When spouses separate, they often are emotionally charged and take decisions in a haste. However, it is important to understand that child custody is not about what you want. It is about the best interests of the child. You need consider things like –

1. How much time you can devote to parenting?
2. Would you need child support from your spouse?
3. Do you want to share legal custody of the child?
4. What is the age of the kid? What does he/she want?
5. Are you open to taking a decision that may not work for you as a person, but will matter as a parent?

Let a family law attorney explain how you should deal with child custody. Most lawyers always want clients to settle divorce, child custody, and alimony matters outside of court. You can also check these websites for after effects of divorce on Children , the research by https://www.divinglegalconsultant.com/ , https://policydevelopment.org/ , https://knowyourrights2008.org/ , and https://lawyernewsblog.com/

Discussing with your spouse

If you have filed for divorce, it’s obvious that things are not hunky dory with your spouse. However, when you have to take a call on child custody & child support, you have to talk to your spouse. Having an attorney ensures that you don’t have to deal with the stress alone. Your attorney can work as a mediator, and will talk to your spouse and their lawyer, as and when needed.

When circumstances are different

If you have a history of drug abuse or alcohol addiction, or have been living with someone, this can impact your child custody battle. When your circumstances are unique and different, do not take a decision without talking to your lawyer.

Most attorneys in Charlotte will offer a free initial consultation. Meet an attorney know more on child custody laws in NC.