Child Custody Attorneys in Winston-Salem, NC

Helping Your Child Live Comfortably After Your Divorce

Your relationship with your child is one of the most important parts of your life. When custody issues arise, choosing a trustworthy and compassionate legal team matters. You’ll want attorneys you can trust to approach your case with care, preparation, and a focus on your child’s well-being. In Winston-Salem and throughout Forsyth County, families turn to our team at Blood Law, PLLC because we combine experience, local knowledge, and a team-based approach designed to protect both your parental rights and your child’s best interests.

Contact us online or call (704) 286-0570 today to schedule a consultation either remotely or at our office in Winston-Salem.

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Our Clients Tell Their Stories

These Stories Are What Keep Us Going

"Cares about you as a friend."
Blood Law, PLLC provided excellent service, demonstrating professionalism and personal attention to detail in preparing a separation agreement. They guided me through the process and answered all questions quickly. Highly recommend!

- Debra K.
"I’m extremely grateful for Anna's help in my time of need."
Wonderful boutique law firm! Great service along with great communication. I’m extremely grateful for Anna's help in my time of need.

- Olivia L.
"Caring, dedicated attorneys at Blood Law."
I owe so much gratitude to Blood Law, PLLC for their assistance in my divorce. They are very knowledgeable about the law, local courts, and judges. I'm excited they opened an office in Charlotte, closer to Mecklenburg County! Definitely contact Blood Law if you need a caring, dedicated attorney.

- Penny N.
"From the first interaction to the last, you will be in great hands the entire way."
Blood Law welcomes each client and prospective client with warmth and great understanding. From the first interaction to the last, you will be in great hands the entire way. They keep you informed throughout the entire process, and lead with experience. The staff at Blood Law will exceed your expectations!

- Former Client
"They fought for me and my children in and outside of the courtroom."
Anna Blood and her team and phenomenal. They fought for me and my children in and outside of the courtroom. I would highly recommend Blood Law for your any family law issues!!

- Liz D.
"Trustworthy and understanding."
Blood Law, PLLC is extremely trustworthy and understanding, perfect for any family law situation you may encounter. Their team is attentive and focused on quick and easy resolutions and doesn’t drag things out just to make more money.

- Sean F.
"Down to earth and understanding."
Blood Law, PLLC is a joy to work with! Extremely talented, down to earth, and understanding, they provide the best professional guidance and protect your legal interests.

- Jennifer W.
"A phenomenal, understanding and dedicated attorney, but yet an even better person."
Anna really helped me out during a situation that wasn't necessarily easy to get through. A phenomenal, understanding and dedicated attorney, but yet an even better person. I would truly recommend her to anyone that has to deal with any situation similar dealing with family law to mine!

- Former Client

When Do Child Custody Issues Arise?

Child custody matters can arise in a variety of circumstances. For many parents, custody becomes a central issue during divorce or separation. In other cases, parents who were never married may need a formal custody order to clarify rights and responsibilities. Modifications may also be necessary if circumstances change significantly after an order is in place.

Child custody issues commonly arise during:

Divorce proceedings
Legal separation
Paternity cases
Relocation requests
Modifications due to changed circumstances
Disputes over visitation schedules

No matter how your custody issue begins, talk to us about what to do. We are prepared to guide you through negotiations, mediation, or court proceedings as needed. Our approach is proactive and focused on building a clear case that reflects your involvement in your child’s life and your ability to provide a stable, supportive environment.

Physical Custody vs. Legal Custody

North Carolina law distinguishes between physical custody and legal custody. Understanding the difference helps you better evaluate potential custody arrangements.

Physical custody refers to where your child lives and how parenting time is divided. Legal custody refers to the authority to make major decisions about your child’s life, such as education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.

Both forms of custody can be structured in different ways depending on the needs of your child and the circumstances of your family. We would be happy to sit down with you and discuss what arrangements for physical and legal custody would work well for you and your child.

Sole Custody vs. Joint Custody

Custody arrangements can also be classified as sole or joint. Sole custody means one parent has primary decision-making authority or primary physical custody. Joint custody means both parents share responsibilities in some capacity, oftentimes 50-50 or close to it.

North Carolina courts generally prefer joint custody arrangements when they are practical and reflect the child’s best interests. The law encourages continued involvement from both parents whenever possible, provided the environment is safe and supportive.

Custody structures that could work for your family could include:

Joint legal custody with shared decision-making
Joint physical custody with a balanced parenting schedule
Primary physical custody with visitation for the other parent
Sole legal custody in specific circumstances

While courts often favor joint arrangements, every family situation is unique. We can present a custody plan that reflects your child’s needs and your ability to provide stability, consistency, and meaningful involvement.

What Courts Consider in Child Custody Cases

When determining custody arrangements, North Carolina courts base decisions on the best interests of the child. This standard allows judges to consider a wide range of factors designed to promote the child’s health, safety, and overall development.

Courts may evaluate the following when approving a child custody arrangement:

Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home environment
The child’s existing routine and continuity
The emotional bond between parent and child
Each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent
Evidence of domestic violence or substance abuse
The child’s educational and medical needs
In some cases, the child’s preferences, depending on age and maturity

Mediated Child Custody Cases

In many North Carolina child custody disputes, mediation is required before the case proceeds to trial. Mediation offers parents an opportunity to work toward an agreement with the assistance of a neutral third party. This process can encourage cooperation and reduce the time and expense associated with litigation.

Our Winston-Salem custody attorneys can prepare you thoroughly for mediation. Preparation may include reviewing proposed parenting schedules, discussing potential compromises, and identifying your priorities. With careful planning, mediation can result in a customized custody agreement that reflects your family’s needs.

If mediation does not result in a full agreement, we will be prepared to move forward with litigation while continuing to seek constructive solutions where possible. Our role is to provide steady guidance, whether your case resolves collaboratively or requires court intervention.

Guardian ad Litem in Custody Cases

In some custody disputes, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem (GAL). A guardian ad litem is an independent individual appointed to represent the best interests of the child during legal proceedings.

A guardian ad litem may:

Conduct interviews with parents and the child
Visit each parent’s home
Speak with teachers, doctors, or other relevant individuals
Review school and medical records
Provide recommendations to the court

We can help you understand the process of working with a guardian ad litem, so your interactions and documentation accurately reflect your role as a committed parent.

When a Parent Is Found Unfit

In rare and serious circumstances, a court may determine that a parent is unfit to continue parenting their child. This finding typically involves evidence that a parent’s conduct poses a risk to the child’s well-being or health.

Situations that may lead to a court determining a parent is unfit include:

Ongoing substance abuse
Severe neglect
Abuse or domestic violence
Abandonment
Persistent inability to provide basic care or hygiene

Are you worried that your child’s other parent is unfit? Or do you think they might try to claim that you are? We can work with you to respond to claims, present evidence, and advocate for a custody arrangement that prioritizes safety and fairness.

Protect Your Role in Your Child’s Life – Call Now

Child custody decisions shape your family’s future. Whether you are establishing an initial order, seeking a modification, or responding to a dispute, having experienced legal guidance can help you move forward with clarity and purpose. Come to Blood Law, PLLC, where our Winston-Salem child custody lawyers are committed to helping you protect your parental rights while focusing on what matters most: your child’s well-being.

Talk to us about child custody arrangements by calling (704) 286-0570 and asking for an initial case review.

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Our Promise To Our Clients

Convenient Locations

With offices across the Carolinas and Tennessee, we make it easier for families to find quality legal counsel.
Children Come First
With the complexities of family law, we put the well-being and safety of your children at the forefront of your case.
Team-Driven Environment
When you work with Blood Law, PLLC, you work with our entire team. Everyone is here to support you through each step.
Honest Guidance
We create personalized plans for each client while setting realistic expectations on the possible outcomes of the case.

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Over 125 Years of Combined Experience

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