The Basics Of Child Custody In North Carolina Divorce Cases

In this article, you can discover:

• How child custody is determined by judges focusing on the child’s best interest in North Carolina.
• The non-specific age for a child’s preference in custody decisions, with more weight given to older children.
• The approach to child support calculation, based on custody arrangements and parental income.

How Is Custody Determined In North Carolina When A Couple Is Divorcing? Is There An Age Where A Child Can Decide Who He Or She Will Live With?

In North Carolina, custody decisions during a divorce are made by a judge who adheres to the principle of the child’s best interest. This broad criterion involves the judge assessing various factors, including the child’s living environment, schooling, extracurricular activities, and healthcare needs, based on inputs from both parents. The judge’s decision focuses on crafting an arrangement that serves the child’s overall well-being. Regarding the age at which a child can influence this decision, North Carolina does not set a specific age for a child to choose their preferred living arrangement. However, the judicial system generally gives more weight to the preferences of older children, particularly those aged 14 and above. While the views of these adolescents are considered, they do not have the definitive power to determine their living arrangements.

When Will Child Support Be Awarded During The Divorce Process Or If Parents Are Not Raising A Child Together In North Carolina?

Child support becomes a topic of discussion primarily in custody cases or when one parent assumes primary care of the child. In North Carolina, the determination of child support is guided by specific guidelines that utilize two key worksheets: Worksheet A and Worksheet B. Worksheet A applies when one parent spends significantly more time with the child, whereas Worksheet B is used for cases of shared custody, typically resembling a fifty-fifty split

How Is The Amount Of Child Support Determined In North Carolina?

The calculation for child support takes into account the incomes of both parents and any additional child-related expenses, such as medical care or daycare. These figures are input into the guidelines, which then generate the required child support obligation. The amount of child support typically correlates with the custody arrangement and the respective incomes of the parents, ensuring that the financial burden is distributed in a way that reflects their caregiving responsibilities and financial capabilities. For more information on Child Custody And Support Issues In A Divorce, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (704) 324-8500 today.