Nothing matters more than your child’s well-being. That truth sits at the heart of every child custody case, whether you’re divorcing, separating, or revisiting an old agreement that no longer works. At Ellis Family Law, we help parents in Cary navigate child custody issues and parental rights with clarity, care, and a long-term focus.
We understand that child custody and visitation rights are not just about schedules; it’s about stability, safety, and creating space for your child to thrive. Our attorneys take the time to understand your values, goals, family dynamic, parental concerns, and even grandparents’ involvement. Then we help you build a legally sound parenting plan that reflects what matters most.
In North Carolina, child custody decisions are guided by one key principle: the best interests of the child. This is more than a phrase; it is a legal standard. Whether you’re creating a child visitation plan through negotiation or asking the court to intervene, every decision should serve your child’s emotional, physical, and developmental needs.
There are two primary types of custody:
This refers to decision-making authority over major aspects of the child’s life, whether education, healthcare, religion, and more. Parents can share legal custody (joint) or one parent may be granted sole legal custody.
This refers to where the child lives on a day-to-day basis. Physical custody can be shared equally, or one parent may be the primary custodian while the other has visitation rights.
Every case is different. We work with you to determine what arrangement is realistic, respectful, and truly in your child’s best interests.
Whether you’re working toward a cooperative agreement or preparing for trial, we offer honest guidance, strong advocacy, and steady support.
We help parents build custom parenting plans that address:
Our goal is to help you create a plan that fits your family—not just one that checks boxes in court.
Not every child custody case begins with agreement, and that’s okay. When conflict arises, we help you approach it strategically and respectfully. We gather the right evidence, build a strong legal argument, and represent your child’s best interests with clarity and compassion.
In contested custody cases, North Carolina courts may consider:
Our job is to help the court see the full picture—and advocate for the solution that supports your child’s wellbeing.
Custody agreements aren’t set in stone. As your child grows, your life evolves, and circumstances change, your custody order may need to change too.
If you or your co-parent are considering a move, whether it’s across the state or across the country, it can have a major impact on your custody arrangement. Relocation cases are some of the most sensitive and complex custody matters in North Carolina family law.
We help parents:
Our goal is to protect your relationship with your child, no matter the distance.
Whether you’re seeking to establish your role or protect your child’s stability, we provide the legal tools and insight you need.
At Ellis Family Law in North Carolina, we serve families beyond child custody by supporting our clients with a holistic approach to family law, encouraging resolution through negotiation and mediation when possible. Collaborative parenting plans often lead to healthier co-parenting relationships—and fewer future conflicts. But when agreement isn’t possible, we’re fully prepared to litigate your case and advocate in court.
Whatever path your case takes, we stay focused on solutions that work—legally, practically, and emotionally.
Family law is our focus. We’re not general practitioners. We’ve built our reputation by guiding families through life’s most personal transitions.
We balance empathy with strength. We’re compassionate with our clients and assertive in court when needed.
We understand the whole picture. We coordinate custody planning with support, property division, and long-term family needs.
We value clear communication. We keep you informed, involved, and empowered to make decisions that serve your child’s future.
From our nearby offices, we represent clients in Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Raleigh, and across Wake County. We know the local courts, the judges, and the nuances of custody law in North Carolina. We’re here to help you navigate this process with professionalism and care—so you can focus on what matters most: your child.
Our board-certified specialists lead every case with strategy, care, and a commitment to your best outcome.
Kathleen Murphy recently took on a very difficult and deceitful case dealing with narcissism. She was very reliable, attentive, kind, thorough, knowledgeable and very encouraging to the victims of abuse....
Kathleen Murphy recently took on a very difficult and deceitful case dealing with narcissism. She was very reliable, attentive, kind, thorough, knowledgeable and very encouraging to the victims of abuse. Kathleen continues to help throughout this very difficult process ensuring safety and the well being of her clients. Highly recommend.
Learning to trust an attorney that you’re just beginning to work with is really difficult. The anxiety I felt along this journey was supported by Kathleen, but what she did...
Learning to trust an attorney that you’re just beginning to work with is really difficult. The anxiety I felt along this journey was supported by Kathleen, but what she did in court this afternoon was beyond. I didn’t know what I didn’t know; but she did. She blew opposing counsel away. She knows her stuff and she knows what’s needed. Her staff went above and beyond for me also, and I’m so grateful
Wow! I’m actually excited about moving forward on my divorce now! I was terrified, now I’m not in the least bit. So excited to have Kathleen Murphy in my corner.
...Wow! I’m actually excited about moving forward on my divorce now! I was terrified, now I’m not in the least bit. So excited to have Kathleen Murphy in my corner.
Kathleen Murphy is simply the best. If you’re looking for someone who protects your best interests along with creating a clear, concise and strategic game plan. Look no further!
...Kathleen Murphy is simply the best. If you’re looking for someone who protects your best interests along with creating a clear, concise and strategic game plan. Look no further!
Ellis Family Law is always there for your family legal needs. I can personally recommend Kathleen Murphy, she is excellent.
...Ellis Family Law is always there for your family legal needs. I can personally recommend Kathleen Murphy, she is excellent.
From day one, Kathleen made me feel supported and heard. She is comforting, pays close attention to every detail, and responds quickly. I continue to fully trust her to protect...
From day one, Kathleen made me feel supported and heard. She is comforting, pays close attention to every detail, and responds quickly. I continue to fully trust her to protect both my best interests and my son’s. I am beyond thankful for Kathleen.
You want your child to feel secure. You want to make decisions you can stand by, today and years from now. We help you do that with clarity, strategy, and compassion.
Because parenting through change takes more than love. It takes a plan that protects it.
And for a fun twist: don’t miss our “Pour Decisions” section, featuring wine tips from our lawyer-wine specialist Gray Ellis!
