Unmarried Couples: Custody & Support Rights
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Child Custody and Support Rights Attorneys for Unmarried Couples in North Carolina
Legal Rights for Unmarried Parents and Partners
Raising a child as an unmarried couple brings unique legal questions—and, sometimes, extra challenges—when it comes to custody, visitation, and child support. In North Carolina, the law treats married and unmarried parents differently in many situations. If you live in Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Sanford, or anywhere in the Triangle and are concerned about your rights as an unmarried parent or partner, Gantt Family Law is here to help.
Have questions about your rights as an unmarried parent? Reach out to us online or call 984-326-3302 for a confidential consultation with our family law team.
What Are My Custody Rights as an Unmarried Parent?
If both parents are listed on the child’s birth certificate, North Carolina law presumes both have equal rights to custody and parenting time. However, unmarried parents often face complications—especially if paternity hasn’t been legally established, or if the relationship ends. Our attorneys can help you:
- Legally establish paternity or parentage when necessary
- Create or enforce custody and visitation agreements
- Protect your relationship with your child if the other parent challenges your rights
Child Support for Unmarried Parents in Raleigh, Durham, Apex & Sanford
Both parents are legally responsible for supporting their children—regardless of marital status. But child support cases involving unmarried couples can involve additional documentation or steps, especially if parentage isn’t clear. Gantt Family Law helps clients:
- Seek or defend against child support claims
- Establish the true income of both parents
- Modify existing support orders if circumstances change
- Enforce child support orders through the courts
Protecting Parental Rights for Unmarried Couples in North Carolina
Without a formal court order, the rights of unmarried parents can be less clear. Our legal team recommends:
- Filing for a formal custody or visitation order to protect your time and relationship with your child
- Seeking legal recognition of parentage, when needed, to safeguard decision-making and inheritance rights
- Addressing potential move-away situations or out-of-state custody disputes as early as possible
How Gantt Family Law Can Help
Gantt Family Law is known for providing top-rated representation for unmarried parents and partners throughout the Triangle. Our child support and custody attorneys have deep experience with non-traditional families, LGBTQ+ parents, and unique custody or support disputes. We’ll listen to your story, explain your rights, and develop a strategy tailored to your goals.
Leadership in Modern Family Law: Richard Gantt
Board-certified family lawyer Richard Gantt brings practical insight and a commitment to fairness for every client—whether you’re navigating a new co-parenting relationship or facing a custody dispute. His leadership at Gantt Family Law ensures that all unmarried parents receive strategic, effective representation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do unmarried fathers have the same custody rights as mothers in North Carolina?
Once paternity is legally established, fathers and mothers have equal rights. However, fathers who aren’t on the birth certificate may need to take additional legal steps.
Can I get child support if we never married?
Yes. Child support is based on parentage, not marital status. Our attorneys can help you start or enforce a support case.
What if my ex won’t let me see our child?
You may need to request a court order for visitation or custody. Gantt Family Law can guide you through this process.
Can a non-biological parent gain custody or visitation?
There are options for non-biological parents, especially when they have played a significant role in the child’s life. Legal advice is essential in these complex situations.
Contact Gantt Family Law for Unmarried Parent and Partner Representation
If you’re an unmarried parent in Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Sanford, or the Triangle area and have questions about custody, visitation, or child support, contact Gantt Family Law. Our experienced and board-certified child custody and support attorneys are ready to protect your rights and support your family’s future.
Call us at 984-326-3302 or contact us online to schedule your consultation.
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