Salisbury Child Custody Lawyer

Salisbury Child Custody Attorney

If you are going through a divorce, seeking parental rights to your child for the first time, or need help modifying a standing custody order, you may require the services of a Salisbury child custody lawyer. Family law matters such as child custody can be complicated and emotionally overwhelming. To protect your parental rights, strong legal representation is helpful when navigating a Rowan County court.

Although going through family court can take time and financial resources, you can leave with a court-enforceable document that your ex-spouse or former partner cannot ignore. The team at Lancaster and St. Louis, PLLC, can help you work toward a successful outcome for your child custody case. We put your and your child’s needs first to help you gain custody.

What Happens During a Child Custody Case in Salisbury, NC?

Before a judge may sign a Judgment for Absolute Divorce, they’ll want to see that both parents have come to an agreement about custody rights and parenting time. The courts have an interest in seeing that the children of divorcing couples have access to adequate resources and loving homes.

When both parents can agree to issues of child custody, child support, and parenting plans, the courts may honor those agreements if they serve the interests of the child. In cases where both parents do not agree on important parenting matters, the judge may assign a custody evaluator before making parenting decisions on behalf of the parents.

Different Types of Child Custody in Salisbury, NC

Parents could be awarded physical custody, legal custody, or both. Legal custody allows one or both parents to make important decisions on behalf of the child. These can include where the child goes to school and which doctor they see. Physical custody determines where the child lives and how much time they spend with each parent.

Either type of custody can be granted as sole or joint. When both parents have a history of being involved in the child’s life, joint custody is typically permitted. When one parent is absent or deemed unfit to parent, the other may be awarded sole custody.

Even when one parent has sole legal or sole physical custody, that does not necessarily mean the other parent does not have access to their child. Only when one parent is found to be a danger to their child or has no interest or ability to parent are visitation rights not awarded to that parent. In some cases, the courts may order supervised visitation for one parent.

The ideal situation for both parents and children during a child custody case is when each respects the parental rights of the other and works to come to an agreement on co-parenting. Although that process is rarely easy, having experienced legal counsel can help you resolve your child custody case on favorable terms that protect your rights and help your child receive the support they deserve.

Why Salisbury Residents Choose Lancaster and St. Louis, PLLC?

The attorneys of Lancaster and St. Louis, PLLC, understand the profound impact a child custody case can have on your life. Our law firm focuses on family law. When we take a case, we make that client a priority and provide uncompromising legal representation.

We take the time to listen to our clients’ needs, and we customize our approach accordingly. When it comes to responding to calls and answering questions, we always keep you informed. Your objectives determine which legal strategy we take.

Residents in and around Salisbury have come to rely on services that are built on principles of integrity and professionalism. You can rely on Lancaster and St. Louis, PLLC, for superior service and uncompromising legal representation.

Salisbury Child Custody Law FAQs

Q: What Do Judges Look for in Child Custody Cases in Salisbury, NC?

A: The judge’s focus is on the child’s best interests. A family court judge wants to see that both parents can provide safe and stable home environments for their children. Any accusations of child abuse may be taken seriously and investigated. Judges may take into account which parents act in good faith rather than out of self-serving interests.

Q: Do I Need a Lawyer for a Child Custody Case?

A: You are not legally mandated to have a lawyer for a child custody case in Salisbury, but it would be extremely difficult to go without one. Your lawyer can help you with complex legal processes and build a strong case for your desired outcome. They can fight for your parental rights and keep your child’s interests in mind. With something as important as your children, it’s vital to have legal representation.

Q: How Long Does a Child Custody Case Take in Salisbury, NC?

A: How long your child custody case tasks in Salisbury, NC depends on the circumstances. The state has a one-year waiting period for divorce, during which both spouses must live apart for at least one year before a divorce can be finalized. The purpose of this is to allow space for any reconciliation conversations to occur. If your child custody case is part of a divorce, your child custody case may take at least one year. Contested divorces can take much longer.

Q: Can a Child Custody Modification Be Changed Later on?

A: Yes. Once your child custody agreement has been signed by a judge, it can later be modified by a family court judge. The courts generally want to see that there has been a substantial change to the circumstances affecting the child’s welfare. This could include changes in the living situation, employment status, health of either parent, or significant changes in the child’s needs or preferences.

Consult Salisbury Child Custody Lawyer Today

If you are going through a child custody case, you need legal representation who can fight for your rights and advocate for your personal goals. The attorneys at Lancaster and St. Louis, PLLC, focus on family law and prioritize their clients in child custody cases. We provide personalized and dedicated legal representation, ensuring clients are always informed about how their case is progressing. To schedule your consultation, please contact our office today.