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In recent years, people have generally become more sensitive to using words and phrases that can be hurtful to others. That includes the language around adoption. The way it was discussed decades ago is nothing like it is now. Today, professionals who deal with...
The state of North Carolina provides avenues for unmarried fathers to protect their legal rights and ensure a relationship with their child. Understanding the steps that you should take to protect your rights is the first step and the sooner you take action, the...
Adoption is a two-way gift that brings fulfillment to both the adoptive parents and the adoptee. But before a successful adoption comes to fruition, prospective adoptive parents have to go through a multilevel procedure, which can sometimes be overwhelming, especially...
Many who divorce find love again. But before tying the knot with a new partner, divorced parents may wonder how the new marriage might affect child custody arrangements. Generally, the court will not modify a child custody order unless it would significantly affect...
Your choice to stay in an unhappy marriage has always been rooted in your child’s well-being. But now that you have raised your child well into a self-sufficient adult, you finally have the time, mobility and wisdom to face what you’ve always known to be the...
Rebuilding life after a divorce is challenging, especially when the breakup results from external interference. Legal recourse may be sought when a third party's actions cause one spouse to lose their partner’s affection. There is a claim known as alienation of...
Adopting stepchildren is a significant decision that can strengthen family bonds and provide legal recognition of the parent-child relationship. In North Carolina, individuals must be aware of specific requirements and considerations when pursuing stepchild adoption....
The U.S. Supreme Court made a historic decision recognizing same-sex couples’ rights nationwide in 2015. But a year prior, North Carolina had already made a landmark with U.S. District Court ruling declaring the ban on same-sex marriages unconstitutional. As much as...
Embarking on the path of adoption is a heartfelt decision filled with hope, compassion and the desire to provide a loving home for a child. It is also a journey that requires a lot of financial, mental and, most importantly, emotional preparation. Emotional...
Children whose fathers take an active role in their lives tend to develop into more emotionally stable adults. However, when an unmarried mother and father break up in North Carolina, the mother has the strongest legal claim to custody. If your ex denies you access to...