Family law matters can be extremely delicate. In many cases, it is your child’s welfare, and your relationship with them at stake. Your best hope is that you can amicably address and resolve any family law issues. However, you need to be prepared for the fact that your case could end up in court.
No matter what, you should always have legal help from an experienced family law attorney. It is hard to undo mistakes that you make in a family law case. Your attorney looks out for your interests at all times.
At Davis Curry Law, a family law attorney at our firm will take a caring and compassionate approach to family law issues. We know that you already have a full plate with practical and emotional issues, and we strive to make your life easier from our end.
A Hendersonville Family Lawyer Can Help
We invite you to learn more about the practice areas we provide as services to you and your family.
Adoption
There are numerous ways that hopeful parents can adopt a child. They can adopt privately or through an agency. Family members who already have a relationship with a child can also adopt, so long as the birth parent consents. Adoption can be a complex process with numerous legal requirements. We can guide you through the legal process and help you deal with any challenges on the way.
Separation
When a married couple separates, they must resolve numerous issues before the court can order a divorce. They can negotiate on their own, with the goal of signing a marital separation agreement to make the divorce uncontested. The couple will need to agree on property division, custody and alimony issues.
You should hire an attorney to negotiate issues on your behalf. Otherwise, emotions may get the best of the situation and increase the chances of litigation. An attorney can identify issues, both in the present and future, that you need to consider.
Name changes
Changing the name of your child (or your own name) in North Carolina requires a legal process, and it could be difficult. We represent clients in name change actions in court.
Orders of Protection/Domestic violence
Spouses or partners may find themselves in physical danger, both during the course of a relationship and during a divorce. They may need to go to court to explain to the judge why they need a protective order from their partner. The judge will have a short time to make a ruling, so you need to clearly articulate the danger. Courts take any issue of domestic violence seriously, especially when children are involved.
At the same time, the spouse or parent who is accused of domestic violence could face harsh circumstances. They are also entitled to legal representation to tell their side of the story.
Paternal rights
Both parents have rights under North Carolina law. There are no presumptions in favor of the mother. When courts set the terms of custody, the father has equal rights, so long as they can show that an arrangement is in the best interests of the child.
Fathers are sometimes forced to fight for their rights, no matter what North Carolina law or the custody agreement says. They need a paternal rights attorney to help them tell their story and show why their continued presence and participation are in the best interests of the child.
Family court contempt actions
When one parent willfully does not follow the terms of a court order, they may be subject to penalties from the court, potentially including jail time. A finding of contempt of court could even result in the court ordering a change to the custody agreement to change legal or physical custody.
Whether the other parent has not followed the court order, or you are being accused of violating it, the stakes are very high. You need an attorney in court for a contempt hearing.
Family court mediation
The parents may not be able to reach an agreement on their own. Family law issues are difficult to work through when each parent has their own view. However, a mediator can help the parents talk and potentially move towards an agreement. We can act as a neutral mediator to facilitate communications and a possible settlement.
How Our Hendersonville, NC Family Law Attorneys Can Help You
Family law matters are often emotional and difficult. Two parents or divorcing spouses may have a long history of conflict, or a sudden and bitter difference of opinion. If there are children involved, they may have very different views of what is best for the child. Regardless, someone involved in a family law dispute needs the help of a practical and objective attorney.
The lawyer could assist their client in resolving the disagreement, and they could represent their client if the case goes to court. You are already dealing directly enough with the situation without having to get involved in the legal details.
Our family law attorney can help you in many ways, including:
- Listening to you, learning the facts of your situation and finding out what is important to you and your children
- Giving you objective advice about what may be possible legally in your case
- Communicating on your behalf with the other spouse’s attorney
- Drafting language for a separation agreement (or reviewing language that is given to you)
- Arguing your case in court if you cannot reach an agreement
- Advising you about the issues that will invariably arise in the course of a divorce
- Assisting you with ongoing issues related to custody after a divorce
- Being available to you to help at all times if you face any family law challenges
There is no reason why you should try to handle the process on your own. First, you may not be equipped to anticipate legal issues. Second, you may not know your rights as a parent.
Hiring a family law attorney is an investment in both your present and future. Davis Curry Law will work closely with you throughout your case, taking the burden off you while effectively representing you. Make sure to contact an experienced Hendersonville family law attorney early in your process. You can contact us online or by phone at 828-900-2420.
