FAQs

Child Custody Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I prepare for my custody case?
We ask that you keep detailed records of the problems you are facing. It is important to be able to tell a judge specific instances of problems. It is very difficult to remember problems you are facing today months down the road.

What is a temporary custody hearing?
Custody decisions made at a temporary hearing are generally going to be operative for the months that you are waiting for your trial date. Get your facts straight and your documentation prepared prior to the hearing. Prepare your lawyer with relevant facts. Plan on attending the temporary hearing.

How much should I expect to pay for an attorney in these matters?
The fee is set during the initial consultation. Each case is different and many factors determine the fee. For example, you may wish to have experts testify about the needs of the child or the parenting abilities of the parents. The complexity of the case and how much you wish to prepare are the major factors in deterring the cost.

My ex spouse often misses his scheduled visitation and then shows up when he is not scheduled. What should I do?
The short answer is to see us regarding a request for modification of visitation rights. In the interest of the child, it is usually best to show as much flexibility as possible in a situation like this, but you do have the legal right to not be inconvenienced in this manner.

Does custody involve just one parent?
No. North Carolina courts may award some aspects of custody to both parents. This is called "joint custody." This may take the form of: joint physical custody (the child or children spend a fairly equal amount of time with each parent); joint legal custody (medical, educational, religious and other decisions about the children are shared); or both joint legal and joint physical custody.

My daughter is divorcing. Neither she or my son-in-law are trustworthy parents. Could I gain custody of my grandchildren?
Sometimes neither parent can adequately provide the proper environment for the child or children. This is frequently the case when there is a history of substance abuse or a mental health problem. It is possible for others to be granted custody, given a temporary guardianship, or given a foster care arrangement made by the court.

I do not understand what 'reasonable visitation' means.
"Reasonable visitation" is generally ordered by the court when parents appear stable and in agreement as to the child's welfare. The idea is to allow flexibility in both the parents' and the children's schedules.

For more information, please see our page on Child Custody.

Copyright © Charles R. Ullman & Associates, Attorneys at Law: Lawyers for Child Custody and Divorce in NC. All Rights Reserved.
Concentrating in: Family Law; Marriage; Divorce; Child Custody: Sole, Joint, Split; Child Support; Spousal Support; Alimony; Adoption; Children's Rights; Parental Alienation; Asset Division; Equitable Distribution; Separation; Visitation; Marital Property, Parents Rights, Child Abuse
Serving North Carolina: Wake County, Johnston County, Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Clayton, Selma.
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