child support and child custody

In North Carolina, both parents have a legal obligation to provide financial support for their child.

• Child support is calculated based on a formula that takes into account the income of both parents, the number of children, and the custody arrangement.

• Child support payments typically continue until the child reaches the age of 18, or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later, but may be extended if the child has special needs.

• In certain circumstances, such as if a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, the court may impute income to that parent for the purposes of calculating child support.

• Child support orders can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant increase or decrease in income or a change in the custody arrangement.

In North Carolina, child custody is determined based on the best interests of the child.

• There are two types of custody: physical custody and legal custody.

• Physical custody refers to where the child primarily resides, and legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about the child's upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and religion.

• Custody can be awarded solely to one parent (sole custody) or shared between both parents (joint custody).

• Factors that the court may consider when determining custody include the child's age and needs, the parents' ability to provide for the child, the child's relationship with each parent, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.

• Custody orders can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances, and parents can also work together to modify custody arrangements through a written agreement.