Confused about custody?

You’re not alone! Understanding types of custody can help you communicate your goals more clearly in custody discussions or court proceedings.

As a family law attorney in North Carolina, I often hear clients misuse or misunderstand legal terms. I also often hear terms that aren’t correct in North Carolina. I hope this series of posts will help clear up some confusion and make it easier for you to communicate effectively with your attorney about your goals and options.

Understanding custody terms makes everything easier.

In North Carolina, the terms of both legal and physical custody are typically outlined in a parenting plan or a custody order. These documents detail how decisions will be made and when the child will be with each parent. Understanding the difference between legal and physical custody can help you communicate your goals more clearly in custody discussions or court proceedings.

If the parents can agree on the issue of custody rather than needing the court to decide, the parents are generally able to choose whatever legal and physical custody arrangement they want.

Wondering about Full Custody?

Full custody is a term I often hear clients use, but it has no legal meaning in North Carolina.

This term can mean very different things to different people. Some refer to sole legal custody, some to sole physical custody, and some to both. To avoid any misunderstanding, it's best not to use this term at all.

About the Author:

David M. Hudson is a NC Board Certified Specialist in Family Law. David enjoys getting to know new clients and learning the particulars of their individual circumstances so that he can better understand what they want and need from him. Maintaining close relationships and regular communication with his clients is key to David’s practice. David collaborates with his clients in goal setting and then works cooperatively with the clients to achieve the goals set.

Disclaimer: All information provided herein is for informational purposes only, and nothing should be taken as legal advice or opinion. All information relates to North Carolina law only. Family law can differ significantly from state to state.