Experienced Charlotte Child Custody Lawyers
Our Charlotte child custody attorneys are a compassionate team of legal professionals with extensive experience in child custody matters, including the resolution of disputes over custody and visitation, as well as the creation of relatively straightforward parenting agreements.
When You Need Child Custody Advice, Turn To Kennedy Law Associates
Our Charlotte custody lawyers are here to help you resolve conflicts over custody schedules and parenting time in a manner that puts the best interests of your child first. If you need advice and representation regarding child custody and parental rights, the attorneys at Kennedy Law Associates are here to help.
To discuss your goals and concerns, please call us in Charlotte at 704-512-0619 or complete our contact form. Charlotte child custody attorney Marsha Kennedy and our entire team are here to help you lay the foundation for your child’s future. Put our more than 25 years of experience on your side.
We Offer Comprehensive Child Custody Legal Services
Our child custody attorneys believe strongly in the mediation and collaborative law processes to help parents amicably resolve child custody and visitation issues. Every family’s situation is unique, and we will work hard to find creative solutions for your family.
The legal team at Kennedy Law Associates also provides parent coordination services to help you resolve any conflicts that may arise after your divorce. We can handle child custody and support modifications if and when your situation changes, and we advise grandparents and parents with regard to grandparents’ visitation rights in North Carolina.
Our experienced Charlotte divorce attorneys serve clients throughout North Carolina, including those in Charlotte, Monroe, and Mecklenburg County, Union County, Lincoln County, Gaston County and Cabarrus County. If you have questions about child custody in NC, contact our law firm for your initial domestic consultation.
Our Conveniently Located Charlotte Office in Ballantyne
At Kennedy Law Associates, our Charlotte custody lawyers understand that accessibility and convenience are important when choosing a family law firm. That’s why our Charlotte office is located in the heart of Ballantyne, one of the city’s most vibrant and easily accessible communities. Whether you live in Charlotte or the surrounding areas, our Ballantyne location offers ample parking and is easily reachable from major highways, making your visits as stress-free as possible.
Our Ballantyne office is designed to provide a welcoming and comfortable environment for clients navigating sensitive family law matters. From your initial domestic consultation to ongoing meetings, our team ensures you feel supported every step of the way. We are committed to serving families throughout Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond, and our convenient location allows us to better meet the needs of our diverse clientele.
If you’re seeking experienced child custody attorneys in Charlotte, we invite you to schedule an appointment today. Let our knowledgeable legal team help you resolve your family law concerns with compassion and dedication, right in your own neighborhood.
Serving Families Throughout Mecklenburg County
At Kennedy Law Associates, our Charlotte lawyers are proud to serve families across Mecklenburg County with compassionate and knowledgeable child custody representation. As the most populous county in North Carolina and home to the city of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County has a diverse and growing community. Our legal team understands the unique needs of local families and the nuances of the Mecklenburg County court system.
Navigating child custody matters in Mecklenburg County requires a deep understanding of both North Carolina law and the specific procedures of the local courts. Our Charlotte custody attorneys regularly handle cases in the Mecklenburg County Courthouse and are familiar with the judges, mediators, and guardians ad litem who may be involved in your case. This local insight allows us to provide tailored advice and effective advocacy for our clients.
We also recognize that Mecklenburg County families come from a wide range of backgrounds and face a variety of challenges. Whether you live in Charlotte, Matthews, Huntersville, Cornelius, Pineville, Davidson, or anywhere else in the county, we are committed to helping you resolve your custody and family law issues with compassion and respect. Our goal is to support you through each step of the process and help you achieve a positive outcome for you and your children.
If you have questions about child custody, visitation, or parental rights in Mecklenburg County, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced legal team. Our top-rated Charlotte child custody attorneys are here to guide you through the complexities of the family law system and help you protect your children’s best interests.
Child Custody in Ballantyne
Ballantyne is home to vibrant families and thriving communities, making child custody matters both sensitive and important. Our Ballantyne child custody lawyers understand the unique needs of parents in this area, whether you are working through a collaborative agreement or preparing for litigation. We help Ballantyne parents establish clear custody and visitation arrangements, modify existing orders, and resolve disputes, all while prioritizing the well-being of your children.
If you are searching for a Ballantyne child custody lawyer, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way. We handle both straightforward and complex custody cases, ensuring your parental rights are protected and your child’s future is secure.
Child Custody in Myers Park
Myers Park is known for its historic charm and strong sense of community, but even in the most stable neighborhoods, families may face difficult child custody decisions. Our Myers Park child custody attorneys bring a thoughtful, personalized approach to each case, especially those involving high-net-worth families or unique parenting challenges. We assist Myers Park parents with everything from initial custody determinations to modifications and enforcement of existing orders.
When you need a Myers Park child custody lawyer, trust our firm to provide the discretion, professionalism, and dedication your family deserves. We will advocate for your interests and your child’s well-being at every stage of the process.
Child Custody in Dilworth
Dilworth’s blend of historic homes and modern amenities makes it a popular neighborhood for families. Our Dilworth child custody lawyers work closely with parents to create practical, child-focused parenting plans and resolve disputes with minimal conflict. Whether through mediation or litigation, we are committed to finding solutions that work for your family’s unique needs.
If you need a Dilworth child custody lawyer, our firm offers compassionate, effective representation. From establishing initial custody agreements to seeking modifications or enforcement, we are here to help you protect your child’s best interests.
Child Custody in Providence Plantation
Providence Plantation families value privacy and stability—qualities that are often threatened during custody disputes. Our Providence Plantation child custody attorneys provide clear, strategic guidance to parents navigating these challenging issues. We assist with both initial custody arrangements and post-divorce modifications, always with a focus on your child’s well-being and your parental rights.
A Providence Plantation child custody lawyer from our firm will work tirelessly to help you achieve the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings. Let us help you safeguard your relationship with your child.
Child Custody in Foxcroft
Foxcroft residents often require sophisticated legal support for custody matters, especially when cases involve complex financial situations, business ownership, or interstate concerns. Our Foxcroft child custody lawyers are adept at managing high-conflict and high-asset cases, ensuring your interests and your child’s needs are always at the forefront.
When you need a Foxcroft child custody lawyer, our team offers personalized attention and effective advocacy. We guide you through every step, from developing parenting plans to representing you in court, always striving to minimize stress and promote your child’s well-being.
Child Custody in Weddington
Weddington’s spacious homes and top-rated schools attract families at all stages of life. Our Weddington child custody lawyers support parents through all aspects of custody, from initial determinations to modifications and enforcement. We understand the importance of stability for your children and work diligently to create and maintain workable, child-centered arrangements.
If you are seeking a Weddington child custody lawyer, our firm is ready to provide the experienced, compassionate guidance you deserve. We are committed to helping Weddington families resolve custody matters efficiently and respectfully.
Child Custody in Matthews, NC
Child custody matters in Matthews, NC require a thoughtful and family-centered approach. Our firm understands that your child’s well-being is your top priority, and we are dedicated to helping parents create custody arrangements that reflect the best interests of their children. Whether you are seeking to establish a new parenting plan, modify an existing order, or resolve a custody dispute, our Matthews child custody lawyers will provide clear, compassionate counsel every step of the way.
For those in need of a Matthews child custody lawyer, we offer experience with both straightforward and complex custody cases. We assist Matthews families with mediation, negotiation, and, when necessary, strong representation in court. Trust our team to advocate for your parental rights and your child’s future, ensuring stability and security for your family during times of change.
Overview Of Child Custody Laws In North Carolina
North Carolina child custody law is designed to protect children’s welfare while recognizing parents’ fundamental rights. The state distinguishes between legal custody and physical custody, each serving different purposes in determining parental responsibilities and living arrangements.
Legal custody grants parents the authority to make major decisions about their child’s upbringing, including educational choices, medical care decisions and religious instruction. Physical custody determines where the child will primarily reside and spend their time. Courts may award joint custody, allowing both parents to share responsibilities, or sole custody, where one parent maintains primary authority.
Joint custody arrangements recognize that children benefit from maintaining strong relationships with both parents. However, sole custody may be appropriate when circumstances such as domestic violence or parental unfitness make shared custody harmful to the child’s well-being.
Factors Considered In Custody Decisions
North Carolina courts apply the “best interest of the child” standard when making custody determinations. This comprehensive approach examines multiple factors to create arrangements that serve the child’s physical, emotional and developmental needs.
Courts consider parental fitness by evaluating each parent’s ability to provide stable housing, emotional support and consistent care. The child’s relationship with each parent, including emotional bonds and communication patterns, influences custody decisions. Additional factors include each parent’s work schedule, financial stability and willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent.
Types Of Custody Arrangements
Custody arrangements vary significantly based on family circumstances and the court’s determination of the child’s best interests. Joint physical custody allows children to spend substantial time with both parents, often following alternating week schedules or splitting time during school breaks and weekends.
Primary physical custody arrangements designate one parent as the primary caretaker while granting the other parent regular visitation rights. Common visitation schedules include alternating weekends, Wednesday evening visits, and holiday sharing arrangements.
The Custody Process In North Carolina
Filing for child custody in North Carolina begins with submitting a complaint to the appropriate county court where the child resides. Parents must complete required paperwork, pay filing fees and serve the other parent with legal notice of the proceedings.
The process typically involves mediation sessions designed to help parents reach agreements outside of court. If mediation fails, the case proceeds to trial, where both parties present evidence supporting their custody requests. Throughout this process, courts may order custody evaluations or appoint guardians ad litem to represent the child’s interests.
Learn More About Legal And Physical Child Custody
There are two types of custody in North Carolina, legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody involves the right to make important decisions for your child concerning issues such as education, medical care and religious upbringing. Physical custody relates to where your child will live.
Both parents will typically be granted joint legal custody of their children after a divorce. Joint physical custody may be granted as well, although one parent will usually be granted primary physical custody. The other parent will usually be allowed overnight visits according to a negotiated schedule.
IMPORTANT: Effective child custody agreements generally do not happen on their own. In order to reach an agreement that works for everyone involved, it is often necessary to negotiate with the help of an experienced attorney. You don’t have to go through child custody issues alone. We are here to help. Please see our Child Custody FAQ to learn more.
What About Sole Custody?
Unless a parent is considered unfit, or unless there is a history of domestic violence in the home, sole custody is not a realistic goal in North Carolina. Courts believe that it is in the best interests of children to have frequent and loving contact with both parents.
Call For An Initial Domestic Consultation With A Mecklenburg County Child Custody Attorney
If you are going through a divorce and are concerned about custody, visitation and child support matters, our Charlotte child custody lawyers are prepared to help. For an initial domestic consultation, please call us in Charlotte at 704-512-0619 or complete our contact form. Our team is here to guide you toward a brighter future for yourself and your children.