Child Custody Attorney Charlotte, NC
Child Custody Attorney Charlotte, NC | Hefferon Law, PLLC
When a relationship ends and children are involved, custody becomes the most important issue in the entire case. North Carolina courts decide custody based on one standard above everything else: the best interests of the child.
At Hefferon Law, PLLC, we've represented parents in all types of custody matters in Mecklenburg County District Court — from initial hearings to emergency situations to contested trials. We fight for arrangements that protect your children and your relationship with them.
Legal custody is the right to make major decisions about your child's life — school, healthcare, religion, activities. It can be sole (one parent decides) or joint (both parents share decision-making). Physical custody is where the child actually lives. These two types of custody are determined separately and don't have to mirror each other.
When a child is in immediate danger — due to domestic violence, substance abuse, or a threatened abduction — a parent can seek emergency custody through the court on very short notice. Emergency orders are temporary and a full hearing must be scheduled within 10 days.
If domestic violence is involved, a protective order may also be appropriate. If you believe your child is in danger right now, call us as soon as possible.
There's no presumption in favor of either parent — mothers and fathers start on equal footing. Courts look at a broad range of factors:
Each parent's ability to meet the child's daily needs
The quality of the relationship between each parent and the child
Each parent's willingness to support the child's relationship with the other parent
The child's adjustment to home, school, and community
Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse
The child's own preferences, depending on their age and maturity
One parent files a custody complaint. North Carolina then requires the parties to attempt mediation before a contested hearing — mediation is confidential and gives parents the chance to reach their own agreement without a judge deciding for them. If mediation doesn't resolve things, the case moves to a hearing.
A detailed parenting plan is the result of either a mediated agreement or a court order. We prepare clients thoroughly for every step.
The custody schedule directly affects child support calculations in North Carolina — the number of overnights each parent has per year is a key factor in the support formula. Getting the custody arrangement right also means getting support right.
Parenting Plans & Visitation Rights
Child Support in Charlotte, NC
Your Children Come First
If you have questions about your situation, we're ready to help. Call us at (704) 610-4795, email info@hefflawpllc.com, or fill out our contact form and we'll be in touch within one business day.
We serve clients throughout Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Union County, Cabarrus County, Stanly County, Gaston County, and surrounding communities.