When going through a divorce or separation, one of the most important issues to decide is child custody. A child custody agreement outlines the details of how parents will share custody of their children. In North Carolina, child custody is determined based on the best interests of the child, which means that the court will consider a variety of factors to determine what arrangement will be best for the child.

In North Carolina, there are two types of custody: physical and legal. Physical custody refers to where the child will live, while legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions for the child, such as those related to education and healthcare.

When creating a child custody agreement in North Carolina, it is important to be clear about both physical and legal custody arrangements. This includes outlining a parenting schedule that details when the child will spend time with each parent. The parenting schedule should consider the child`s age, school schedule, extracurricular activities, and any other relevant factors.

Additionally, the child custody agreement should address how the parents will communicate with each other about the child and make important decisions. This may include methods of communication, such as email or texting, and a system for resolving disputes.

It is important to note that child custody agreements can be modified as circumstances change. For example, if one parent`s work schedule changes and they can no longer adhere to the original parenting schedule, the agreement may need to be revised.

When creating a child custody agreement in North Carolina, it is recommended to work with an experienced family law attorney. An attorney can help ensure that the agreement is legally sound and considers all relevant factors to protect the best interests of the child.

In summary, creating a child custody agreement in North Carolina requires careful consideration of both physical and legal custody arrangements, as well as a detailed parenting schedule and communication plan. Working with an experienced family law attorney can help ensure that the agreement is legally sound and protects the best interests of the child.