Lawyer
Annette R. Heim is ready to assist with your Family Law case. We place the needs of our clients above all else and provide honest and direct communication throughout every step of your case.
Representing Parents in Cabarrus & Stanly Counties
Child custody is often one of the most contentious and emotionally charged issues in a North Carolina divorce. This is especially true for couples who have personal issues between them that make for a difficult divorce. Having the steady guidance of an experienced divorce attorney can be invaluable in all cases where custody must be decided, either by you and your spouse through negotiation or mediation or by a family law judge.
At The Law Offices of Annette R. Heim, P.A., you can work through your custody case with the experienced guidance of our dedicated attorney. We will provide the counsel you need to understand how custody works, what North Carolina law says on the matter, and how the law and courts may impact your case. Throughout it all, we will give you the legal support you need as we pursue a healthy and positive resolution whether through reaching an agreement outside of the court or advocating on your behalf before the judge who will determine the matter.
Discuss your case with our Concord child custody attorney by reaching out to us online or at (704) 912-0353.
Child Custody Cases in North Carolina
Custody consists of both physical custody and legal custody which can be awarded on a sole or joint basis. Physical custody refers to where the child lives. Joint physical custody would involve a parenting schedule in which the child spends time with both parents. Legal custody refers to a parent’s right to make major decisions about the child’s life and welfare.
In resolving child custody, you and your spouse or the other parent have the right to work out custody arrangements on your own. Your agreement can then be formally written up and submitted to the court for approval. If you cannot, it will be left up to court to decide. In some cases, you may be ordered by the judge to try to work out an agreement through mediation or with a Parent Coordinator assigned by the court. When that is unsuccessful, the case will go to trial.
The courts must base child custody agreements on what is in the best interests and welfare of the child. Courts will look at many factors to determine this; those factors will be used that are relevant to the individual circumstances of each case.
These factors can include but are not limited to:
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- The ability of each parent to provide a stable environment for the child
- The physical and emotional health of each parent
- The child’s ties to siblings, extended family members, school, and community
- The willingness of parents’ to encourage the child’s relationship with the other parent
- Whether domestic violence or abuse has occurred on the part of a parent
At The Law Offices of Annette R. Heim, P.A., we will use all available tools and legal avenues to help you obtain the best possible result in your child custody issue.
See Why Clients Choose the Law Office of Annette R. Heim
Annette is a personal friend and once was my attorney. I am proud to know her.
- Richard G.
We understand the need for upfront, clear, and concise information during these emotional times. Every family law matter is different and requires a unique approach to the people involved. Regardless of the type of case we will get through this together. After years of experience, we can honestly say that being a part of the client’s legal support system during this trying time can be quite joyful, as we always get to see them grow in their own character, strength and perseverance.
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