Primary law and terminology
N.C.G.S. § 50-13.2. In North Carolina, courts generally describe the schedule as a parenting agreement. The court's decision is based on the child's best interests, not simply a parent's preferred percentage of time.
North Carolina · NC
North Carolina Custody Laws: Parenting Time & Relocation
A plain-English reference to North Carolina custody terminology, joint custody, parenting time, relocation, child preferences, and order changes.
Read the North Carolina parenting plan guide See child support guidelines Official North Carolina courts site
Informational only—not legal advice. Laws and guidelines change. Verify the current rule with the official court resource and a licensed North Carolina family-law attorney.
Joint custody and parenting time
No presumption; joint custody must be considered on request.
Child preference
Considered for a child of suitable age and discretion.
Relocation and move-away cases
No relocation statute — a move is evaluated as a substantial change in circumstances.
Changing an existing order
A substantial change of circumstances affecting the child's welfare is required.
Where to file
Under the UCCJEA the child generally must have lived in the state for the 6 months before filing (or since birth, if younger). Mediation is required in custody disputes before a contested hearing.
Build a workable North Carolina parenting plan
Put regular time, holidays, exchanges, communication, and dispute steps in one written plan. Then keep the actual schedule and handoffs organized as circumstances change.
North Carolina custody questions
What are the custody laws in North Carolina?
North Carolina applies the statute or rule summarized above and decides parenting time by the child's best interests. Read the official court resource before filing.
Can a parent move with a child in North Carolina?
No relocation statute — a move is evaluated as a substantial change in circumstances.
How do I change a North Carolina custody order?
A substantial change of circumstances affecting the child's welfare is required.
More North Carolina family-law resources
Compare the rule with your written plan, schedule, and records before you file or negotiate.
- Parenting plan guides by state
Filing venue, required classes, and the terminology each state's courts use.
- Custody schedule patterns explained
2-2-3, 2-2-5-5, week-on/week-off, and every other common rotation.
- Custody percentage calculator
Count overnights across a full cycle the way state worksheets do.
- Court-ready PDF legal exports
One-click evidence packets for your attorney or a hearing — unlimited and free.
- State-by-state child support estimator
Applies your state's own guideline model to your numbers.