Civil courts have been around for centuries as a way of helping people solve disputes that are not criminal complaints. Family court, however, is a relatively new creation by the judicial system. Operating as part of or along similar lines to a civil court, family courts are there to resolve specific issues for people and their children.
- Why have a separate family court?
Family courts deal with issues unlike most of the others in the legal system. Evidence of affection, commitment and other unquantifiable parts of the human or parenting experience have to be considered. Since children are often affected by family court outcomes, they may also involve counseling during and after proceedings.
- What is covered by a family court in North Carolina?
Decisions about child custody and child support are often made or enforced in family courts. This applies to the rights and responsibilities of parents as well as their financial obligations to children. Marital issues like divorce and annulment are also decided in family court, along with domestic violence issues and other crimes that affect family units exclusively.
- Are parents the only adults who have business in a family court?
No. Other than issues that may affect families or people in a relationship, family courts may also hear the petitions of grandparents or other people with a vested interest in a person’s well-being.
- Can I have representation in family court?
Yes, you can always have a lawyer representing your interests in any court in North Carolina. An attorney can help ease the process of appearing or petitioning a family court.