Child Custody & Support in North Carolina

Today we will explore the North Carolina approach to child custody and child support. Before we delve into specifics, there is an overarching consideration we need to consider first. North Carolina places a high importance on the best interests of the child. In any determination of child custody or support, the court will examine what circumstances will yield the best outcome for the children involved.

What are the Different Types of Child Custody in North Carolina?

There are three major types of child custody in North Carolina.

First, we will discuss sole custody. In this situation, one parent has sole decision-making power on behalf of the child or children. The other parent does not have any rights concerning the child or children.

Second, we will discuss joint legal custody and joint custody. Joint legal custody means that both parents share decision-making power on behalf of the child or children. Though joint legal custody does not necessarily involve shared physical custody. Joint custody means the parents share equally in decision-making power and physical custody of the child or children.

Third, we will discuss primary custody. In this situation, the parents share decision-making power on behalf of the child or children. But the breakdown of physical custody is less even. One parent has physical custody during the week; the other parent has physical custody on the weekends.

Having covered the basics of child custody, we can move on and explore the North Carolina approach to child support.

How Does North Carolina Determine Child Support? 

The North Carolina Court System provides a number of worksheets to help calculate child support. Interested parties are encouraged to review applicable worksheets to gain a better understanding of the factors involved.

In most cases in North Carolina, there are four primary factors involved in the calculation of child support:

• Gross monthly income of one parent;
• Gross monthly income of the other parent;
• Monthly health insurance allocation of children; and
• Childcare costs related to work.

It is important to note that if the parents make less than $300,000 combined annually, then child support will be determined by the North Carolina Child Support Guidelines.

Is Child Support Permanent in North Carolina? 

No, child support is not permanent in North Carolina. The limit on child support is generally the child’s 18^th birthday or high graduation. Though there are extremely rare circumstances in which child support may extend beyond the child’s 18^th birthday or high graduation.

It is important to note that the amount of child support can also change over time. If there is a substantial change in circumstances for either parent, then the courts may increase or decrease child support contributions.

Do You Have Questions for a Skilled Family Law Attorney? 

Whether you are dealing with child custody or support, divorce or other aspects of family law, it is prudent to be cautious. There is a need to balance your personal interests against the needs of your family. Even the smallest issue can lead to disastrous consequences. That is why it is crucial to consult with a skilled family law attorney to design a strategic and balanced approach. Otherwise, you may not put yourself in the best possible position for a successful outcome.

Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Powers Landreth PLLC has 20 years of combined legal experience. If you have questions about child custody or support, divorce or other aspects of family law, please feel free to contact us at your earliest convenience.

Resource:

nccourts.org/Forms/Documents/1226.pdf