Even though you may not agree on the specifics, all parents want what’s best for their children. This is true even during a divorce. Using a lawyer to reconcile differences can result in an agreement offering the best environment for your children. When searching for the best custody attorney near me, choose Morgenstern & Associates.
Types Of Custody
In North Carolina, the law differentiates between physical and legal custody. Physical custody is the child’s living arrangements. Often, the child will spend the majority of time with one parent with visitation rights to the other. Sometimes, the parents split the time.
Primarily, legal custody gives the parent the right to make decisions about the child’s upbringing. This includes determinations regarding medical procedures, schooling, and religion.
Generally, parents can have sole or joint custody of either type.
A Written Child Custody Agreement Is Vitally Important
During a divorce, partners often focus on their needs. Often, negative emotions experienced during this difficult time can cloud judgment. Sometimes, revenge, or getting back at a spouse becomes a driving force. Unfortunately, kids can become pawns in the dissolution of the marriage.
However, having a written custody agreement in place will avoid conflict with your spouse. This contract will detail the responsibilities of each parent including the particulars of living arrangements and visitation.
Moreover, hiring a lawyer to help settle issues in your child custody case has many important benefits. A quicker resolution and avoidance of costly mistakes are just some of the advantages of hiring a lawyer. Furthermore, when a custody complaint is filed there are state-wide mandatory custody proceedings. A lawyer can help you with all of these issues.
Top 5 Reasons You Need A Child Custody Lawyer
Understanding the consequences of the law can be difficult for most people. Hiring the right attorney will always relieve stress and simplify matters. Take a look at our top 5 reasons you need an attorney for a child custody agreement.
1. Children Are in Danger
You have the right to keep your children free from danger including from your ex-spouse. A lawyer can help you explore legal remedies to keep your kids safe.
2. Your Ex-Spouse Hired A Lawyer
It’s rare for an amateur to beat a professional. A lawyer will be up on all the latest laws as well as rules and procedures of the court. You’ll be at a severe disadvantage if your spouse has an attorney and you do not.
3. The Case Is Complicated
The issues surrounding child custody can become even more complex when certain situations are present. For example, visitation can become very difficult when a parent decides to move out of state.
4. Your Ex Is Preventing You From Seeing Your Children
During your separation, both mother and father have the same legal rights to their children. Hiring a lawyer early on can create the structure for a satisfactory custody agreement.
5. You Want A Favorable Outcome
Ignorance of the law can be costly in terms of money and rights. Hiring an expert ensures the best possible scenario for your circumstances.
Finding A Good Attorney
With online resources at your fingertips, it’s never been easier to find a qualified attorney. You can begin by searching for lawyers who are board-certified specialists by using Lawyer Legion. Then, check legal directories such as Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell for ratings and reviews.
Above all, meet with the attorney to ensure your philosophies are a good fit. You should feel completely comfortable with your lawyer as you will be discussing intimate details.
FAQs To Help Finding The Best Custody Attorney Near Me
To find the best custody attorney near me means you need someone who understands your circumstances. While we cannot generalize advice for custody cases, we’ve answered a few commonly asked questions. For specific remedies for your case, call us at 336-203-9110.
How Much Does A Child Custody Attorney Cost?
Usually, this is the first question most people ask. Although the more important question should be, how much experience do you have?
Generally, a higher-skilled lawyer is more expensive yet can navigate complicated laws quicker. Moreover, an experienced lawyer can devise meticulously crafted strategies with remedies for your specific case.
Also, much depends on you and your spouse. Can you both put aside your differences and work out an agreement? Continued arguing will drag out your case.
Finally, the circumstances of your case will affect your costs. Will you require the assistance of any specialists’ assessments? Often, when parties disagree over arrangements, the court will require the opinion of an expert. Likewise, the Court may require the appointment of an expert in custody cases upon the request of either party.
How Long Will It Take To Get Custody?
Ultimately, most of the power in determining the length of the custody arrangements lies with you and your spouse. If you can resolve your differences quickly, you can put your decisions in a document and execute it.
However, if you and your spouse continue to argue, you’ll need to bring your case before a judge. This leads to the gathering of evidence and expert opinions on what’s best for the child. It also means you’re subject to the judge’s schedule and the number of cases before you.
Do I Need To File For Custody If My Partner And I Were Never Married?
Parents who never married also face custody issues. While an unmarried father has the same rights as the mother, paternity may need to be established if there is a dispute between unmarried parties.
How Can I Learn More About Child Custody Issues?
When you want the best custody attorney near me, contact Morgenstern & Associates. Our lawyers are board-certified specialists with over 40 years of combined experience.
We’d love to talk to you regarding your child custody, child support, or divorce options. Call us at 336-203-9110 to discuss the particulars of your situation.