Charlotte custody and support lawyer, Out of state order registration

Our Charlotte based child custody and support lawyers are well versed on the procedures involved in registering, enforcing, and modifying foreign orders.  NC Law considers any child custody or child support order that was entered in a state other than NC to be a "foreign" order.  Prior to enforcing or possibly modifying an out of state child support order, North Carolina law requires that the order must first be "registered" in North Carolina.  NC law does not similarly specifically require registration of foreign child custody orders, but in practice, we have seen judges require the extra step prior to enforcement or modification.  Registration can be a relatively easy process assuming all statutorily dictated steps are followed.  Things get tricky when jurisdiction becomes an issue after one or more parties to a child custody or child support order moves from one state to another.  The biggest questions become, how is the out of state (foreign) order enforced in the new state, and which state (the original state or the new state) has jurisdiction and power over the parties moving forward to modify and change the order?  These questions often involve a complex legal analysis and may lead to cross state battles.  It is important to seek legal counsel to ensure that you are following the proper steps regarding the enforcement and possible modification of your foreign order.