The holiday season is a time for giving and, for many children in Guilford County, local charities play a crucial role in making the season magical. Continue reading →
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Holiday Drinking and Driving: Custody Risks and Legal Implications
As the holiday season approaches, celebrations and gatherings often include alcohol, increasing the possibility of drinking and driving.
Beyond immediate safety concerns, driving under the influence (DUI) can have lasting impacts on individuals, especially when it comes to family and custody matters. In North Carolina, a DUI conviction can significantly influence child custody cases, affecting parents’ rights and family dynamics. Continue reading →
Can Courts Grant Equitable Distribution and Alimony to Unmarried Couples in North Carolina?
On a national level, the number of marriages has begun to increase after taking a dive in the couple of years following the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though more people may be getting married now, there are still a significant number of unmarried couples who live together in North Carolina. If you are unmarried, does North Carolina allow a lesser-earning or dependent partner to receive alimony or to seek equitable distribution during a breakup? Continue reading →
Do Changes in the Law Impact Pending Cases?
Laws are constantly changing. Federal, state, and local legislation is added, amended, and revoked regularly. Do these changes in the law affect cases that are ongoing? It depends.
IVF, In Loco Parentis, Child Support, and How It All Comes Together
Y Michael Yin, JD
GREEN V. CARTER, 2024-NCCOA-______ (2024).
Facts: The case involves two women, Mother and Partner, who had an on-and-off romantic relationship and planned to have a child together through IVF. Although only one woman gave birth and was listed as the mother on the birth certificate due to Michigan law, both participated in selecting the sperm donor and jointly named the child. After their relationship ended, they moved to North Carolina.
Nevada Keeps the Family Court Open
Y Michael Yin, JD
In Nevada, the Supreme Court recently issued a ruling affirming the public’s constitutional right to access Family Court proceedings, overturning a rule change that had closed some hearings. The Court found that the rule violated the First Amendment right to access court proceedings.
In the ruling, the Court acknowledged the importance of protecting litigants’ privacy in family law matters but emphasized that privacy interests do not automatically override the public’s right to access court proceedings. However, some Justices dissented, arguing that Family Court cases should be treated differently from other civil proceedings and pointing to laws regarding confidentiality in adoption and parental rights termination cases.
National Equal Pay Day and Child Support
Pay is an important factor under the North Carolina Child Support Guidelines. It is critical for parents to be employed at their best potential for income to support children.
This emphasis on fair compensation and financial stability aligns with the principles of National Equal Pay Day, which highlights the importance of gender pay equity and fair wages for all individuals. Because without equal pay opportunities, how can we expect men and women to contribute equally to the financial well-being of their children?
Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Among great American heroes, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. stands out. As a powerful orator, King’s words defined a generation. His legacy includes some of the most significant speeches in American history. Continue reading →
Costner/Baumgartner Divorce
Approximately two months ago, Kevin Costner’s soon-to-be-ex-wife, Christine Baumgartner, filed for divorce. It appears the fight between the two is just getting started. Costner has received numerous accolades throughout his acting and producing career and is most recently known for his role as John Dutton on Yellowstone. Baumgartner is a handbag designer. The couple have three children together aged 12, 14, and 15. Continue reading →
Witherspoon/Toth Divorce Announced
Reese Witherspoon and Jim Toth announced the end of their marriage on Friday, March 24, 2023. According to sources, Witherspoon filed the paperwork in the Circuit Court of Davidson County near their home in Nashville. The Oscar winner and super-agent have one son together, Tennessee James, age 10. Additionally, according to the paperwork, the couple have a prenuptial agreement. In preparation for the end of their marriage, the couple have been splitting their assets for some time. They have sold properties and their production company, Hello Sunshine. Now, the couple are focused on working out a custody arrangement for their son.
North Carolina Divorce Lawyers Blog

