Dear Carolyn,
I am in a custody battle with my ex-husband. My nine-year-old wants to live with me. Can my nine-year-old simply tell the judge this, and then we are done with this mess? I have heard a child can talk to the judge in “chambers,” but I am not sure what this means. Continue reading →
Dear Carolyn,
Triad parent here, contemplating divorce, but I feel compelled to stay together for the children. The children are ages ten and twelve. However, the marriage is quite bad; we argue all the time. We never do anything together, and sex—forget that. I work, and my wife does not work. Can you give me any insight into considerations for whether I should stay in the marriage for the children, or at least until they are in college? I want to do what is best for the children. I am miserable.
~ Miserable Continue reading →
One thing that parents from all walks of life can commiserate over is the struggle to find child care. If you are a new parent, expecting your first child, new to the area, or just considering a change in care, there is a lot to consider when choosing a child care provider. There are several crucial criteria to keep in mind when searching for a daycare or preschool: curriculum, ratings, and your gut. Continue reading →
The name “Responsible Individuals List” may sound like an accolade to parents; however, this is a misnomer. For those unfortunate enough to find their family in the midst of an investigation of child abuse, neglect, and dependency the List is likely to be mentioned. It is important that anyone who finds themselves in this situation be aware of what the term means and the ramifications of being on this list. Continue reading →
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, love is in the air and it is a great time to express it to those who you care about most. It is important that during this festive season that you remember that your children are the ones who need your love the most and we are here to help with some creative ideas on how to make the most of your time with them. When it comes to time with your children, it is important to remember the deliberate nature in which you must approach each moment you have with them. Continue reading →
As a parent, it is a nightmare even to imagine your child being harmed. But for some families in the Piedmont, this is a grim reality. The scenario turns even darker when there are allegations that your spouse harmed the child. This places the parent in a terrible position: trying to protect your child from harm, and to reconcile how your spouse could be responsible for the alleged conduct. The parent may not have been aware the abuse was occurring, but may still be called to testify about the facts and circumstances of the alleged abuse either in a juvenile proceeding, a custody trial or criminal proceedings. What is the innocent parent to do? The natural inclination may be to stand mute to try to hold the family together. However, this is not an option. Continue reading →
I know, the last thing your teenager wants to do this summer is read. But, if you get creative with it, you might be able to get them to read a few books this summer. My 15 year old niece helped me with some of my summertime reading research, so most of this is in her opinion. She is a spirited teen who is a stellar soccer player and student, so I trust her opinion in leading me in the right direction for a good teenage view on literature. Continue reading →
The previous two posts on premarital agreements have addressed future spouses who are considering signing a premarital agreement. The final two posts in this series will address the future spouses’ parents.
In particular, this post is directed at parents who have worked hard enough, and been fortunate enough, to accumulate significant property. You desire, naturally enough, to leave that property to your children. But you do not want that property to pass to your children’s spouses. How can this goal be accomplished? Continue reading →
I am just like my Father: I have come to this realization as I get older. From the red hair, the red-headed temper and the overly kind and generous heart; I thank my father. It wasn’t until recently, though, that I realized how much I am like him. Quiet at times, especially around new people; he becomes the life of the party once he is around his people. I realized that in my mid-twenties I was the same way. Turning junk into treasure, an eye for color and design and the overwhelming and sometimes heavy load of putting everyone else’s needs and worries before myself is me and my father. He taught me how to drive the wide open roads respectfully in the Pennsylvania Mountains and the unique connection you can make with a four-legged friend. I owe my Dad the world and so much more. How will you spend Father’s Day with your Dad this year? Continue reading →
The kids are starting to get antsy. All the final tests in school are coming to an end, and they have checked out for the year. You know what will be coming next: summer break! Last summer your kids always complained that they were bored, or they spent way too much time on their electronic devices. This summer, plan ahead and make it a fun and enjoyable time for both you and your kids. Continue reading →
North Carolina Divorce Lawyers Blog