Child Custody Attorney in Raleigh, North Carolina
When parents separate, the most important question becomes: What is best for the children? Custody decisions can feel overwhelming, emotional, and deeply personal. Attorney Yvonne Armendáriz takes time to understand your family, listen to your concerns, and explain every option in simple language so you can make decisions that protect your children and bring stability to your home.
What Our Clients Say
Understanding Child Custody in North Carolina
Child custody in North Carolina focuses on one main goal: the best interests of the child. This includes safety, stability, emotional well-being, and the ability of each parent to provide care.
Custody can include:
Legal custody (who makes decisions about health, education, religion)
Physical custody (where the child lives)
Parenting time / visitation schedules
Temporary custody orders during separation
Modification of older custody orders
Parents can reach agreements on their own, with the help of an attorney, or through mediation. If parents cannot agree, the court will make a decision after reviewing what is safest and healthiest for the child.
Custody cases can feel stressful, but with the right guidance, they become easier to understand and manage. We support you through each step with patience and compassion.

Custody Services We Provide in Raleigh
Custody issues need careful, sensitive handling. We help parents understand their options and create plans that protect their children’s well-being.
We help parents create clear, realistic parenting schedules that support their child’s routine and emotional needs. Our goal is to reduce conflict and make transitions easier for everyone.
Whether you share decision-making or one parent has primary responsibility, we explain your options and help you choose what supports your child best. We make sure you feel confident about how each type of custody works.
We assist with setting fair visitation schedules that give children meaningful time with each parent. We help ensure the plan fits your child’s age, needs, and daily life.
During separation, families often need temporary arrangements to keep children stable. We help you secure temporary orders that provide safety and structure until a final plan is in place.
Custody orders can be changed when life circumstances shift, including new jobs, school changes, safety concerns, or major life events. We help you request updates that reflect your family’s current needs.
If a child is in immediate danger, the court can issue an emergency order. We help you act quickly and safely to protect your child.
Why Choose Armendáriz Law Office for Your Custody Issues
Bilingual & Bicultural Representation:
With deep roots in both English- and Spanish-speaking communities, Yvonne bridges cultural and language gaps to ensure every family receives clear, respectful, and informed representation.
Decades of Family Law Experience:
For the past two decades, Yvonne has guided families across North Carolina through divorce, custody, and major life transitions with clarity, compassion, and strategic planning.
Client-Centered, Compassionate Support:
We see the person behind every case. You’ll receive steady communication, honest guidance, and the reassurance that your concerns are heard and your goals truly matter.
Detail-Oriented Preparation & Strong Advocacy:
We prepare thoroughly, handle every detail carefully, and protect your rights inside and outside of the courtroom, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
Committed to Community & Access to Justice:
As the first Latina President of the Wake County Bar Association, Yvonne brings leadership, cultural awareness, and a long-standing commitment to making legal services accessible for all families.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a court decide custody in North Carolina?
The court looks at what is best for the child, including safety, stability, each parent’s involvement, and the child’s emotional needs. The goal is always to support the child’s long-term well-being.
Do parents have to go to court for custody?
No. Many parents create agreements through negotiation or mediation without going to court. If a judge is needed, we guide you through the process with care and preparation.
Can custody be shared?
Yes. Many families choose joint legal or joint physical custody. We help you understand what each option looks like and how it affects daily life.
Can custody orders be changed later?
Yes. If there is a major change in your child’s needs or your family situation, orders can be modified. We help you gather the information needed to request a change.
What if the other parent will not follow the custody order?
Court orders must be followed. If they are not, legal steps can be taken to enforce the order. We help you understand your options and take action safely and appropriately.
Can grandparents or other relatives request custody?
In some situations, yes, especially when the child's safety or stability is at risk. We help families understand when third-party custody requests are permitted.
Get in Touch with Our Legal Team
Are you looking for a family law attorney in Raleigh, NC and surrounding areas?
At Armendáriz Law Office, we take the time to understand your situation, explain your options, and advocate for you with clarity and care.

