6 Ways to Use the Custody X Change App in NC
The Custody X Change app allows North Carolinians create their own parenting plans and visitation schedules with guidance and flexibility.
It can help parents representing themselves, parents working with lawyers, and parents settling custody through alternative methods. Custody X Change professional software is commonly used by lawyers and others working in family law, as well.
Below, find six ways to use the Custody X Change app.
1. Present options to the other parent
It's easier to express what you want for your child when you put it on paper. Showing the other parent options for parenting plans and visitation schedules can help them understand your concerns, as well as identify points where they agree with you.
You should bring your Custody X Change documents whenever you discuss custody with the other parent, whether it's independently or in mediation or collaborative law.
2. Present a proposal to the judge
Judges need as much information as possible to understand a family's situation and issue a court order. You can help by showing the judge your preferred Custody X Change parenting plan and visitation schedule during a hearing or trial. You can even use a visual calendar to illustrate the schedule, making it clear and memorable for the judge.
3. File as part of a settlement
If you and the other parent reach an understanding, you can settle your case by filing a parenting plan with the court. North Carolina doesn't offer a parenting plan template, so rather than start from scratch, let Custody X Change walk you through each step of putting your agreement into a court-compliant, personalized format.
4. Journal evidence
A digital custody journal serves as evidence of your family life before and after a court order. Details like taking your child to medical appointments or assigning age-appropriate chores can demonstrate how you positively impact your child. You can also document problems with the other parent, such as canceled visits or aggressive behavior.
5. Track actual parenting time
Prior to receiving a court order, enter your parenting schedule in Custody X Change to show the court who's been caring for your child hour by hour. Judges often like to maintain the same balance of parenting time.
After the court gives an order, use Custody X Change to compare the time you were awarded with what you actually get. Mark your calendar when a parent shows up late or cancels a visit, then print a report calculating the effect on custody time.
Data is crucial when a judge considers how a temporary order is working and when you ask to modify a permanent order.
6. Implement court orders
It's essential that you follow your court order to the letter. If you don't, you can be brought back to court and even charged with a crime.
But orders for visitation can be particularly difficult to decipher. When exactly does "Week 2" begin this month? Which day is considered the middle of winter break?
Use Custody X Change to transform your order into a shareable calendar with optional push notifications, so you'll never have to wonder whether you're staying in compliance.