Winston-Salem Child Custody Attorneys

Protecting Your Parental Rights in Forsyth County

Child custody disputes are emotionally challenging. At Dummit Fradin, we understand the complexities families in Winston-Salem face. Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through every step, ensuring your rights and your child’s well-being are prioritized.

Conveniently located in Winston-Salem on Healy Drive with ample parking.

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When your relationship with your child is on the line, the stakes couldn’t be higher. At Dummit Fradin, we understand the emotional toll that custody disputes can take on parents and children alike. That’s why our Winston-Salem child custody attorneys are committed to standing beside you—guiding, protecting, and advocating for your family’s future.

Why Choose Dummit Fradin in Winston-Salem?

For over 30 years, families across Forsyth County have trusted our firm to help them navigate some of the most challenging moments of their lives. We’re not only experienced family law attorneys—we’re deeply familiar with the Forsyth County legal system and the judges who preside over local custody cases.

  • Frequent appearances in Forsyth County District Court
  • Familiarity with the local judges and custody mediators
  • Proven record advocating for Winston-Salem families

Relocating Could Affect Your Custody

A Brief Overview of the NC Child Custody Process

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MEET OUR CHILD CUSTODY TEAM

Erin Woodrum
Erin WoodrumSenior Case Management Attorney
Erin Woodrum is our Senior Case Management Attorney based out of our Winston-Salem Family Law Office. She brings over 10 years of experience in both Family and Criminal Law to our Firm. She has expertly handled a wide range of cases, including child custody, child support, equitable distribution, spousal support, divorce, and domestic violence. Erin has a special interest in third-party custody, adoptions, and termination of parental rights cases. Renowned for her exceptional and detailed trial preparation skills, Erin is a trusted advocate. If your Family Law case is headed to trial, you’ll want Erin on your Legal Team.
Molly Brazil
Molly BrazilLocation Manager & Family Law Attorney
Molly Brazil is a family law attorney in Winston-Salem, NC. Molly is known for her creative solutions to complex problems, her kindness and compassion, and her steadfastness when cases do go to trial. Molly is dedicated to ensuring that each client feels at ease, secure that their case is in good hands, and that they are well-informed at each step in their case. If you need an attorney that is fully prepared to try to get a resolution without a trial but is also ready to roll up her sleeves and battle it out in a courtroom call Molly today.
Kennedy Bullis
Kennedy BullisFamily Law Attorney
Kennedy Bullis is a Family Law Attorney from the Dummit Fradin Healy Office in Winston-Salem, NC. She is a passionate advocate who was inspired to go into law because of her experience working in the DSS system. Her goal is to help families navigate the complicated legal system so they feel heard, their issues are addressed, and positive solutions are found with the least negative consequences for all involved. If you need a compassionate dedicated communicator who can help tell your story, you need Kennedy Bullis at your side. Call her today.

Understanding Forsyth County Child Custody

In North Carolina, custody falls into two main categories:

  • Legal Custody – The right to make major decisions for your child’s life, such as schooling, healthcare, and religion.
  • Physical Custody – Where the child lives and how time is shared between parents.

While these definitions are statewide, local procedures in Winston-Salem can shape how custody is awarded. The Forsyth County court system emphasizes stability, safety, and cooperation between parents. Our attorneys know how to present your case with these local priorities in mind.

A sad young boy in a hoodie holds paper cutouts of a separated family, representing the emotional impact of custody disputes and the role of child custody lawyers in Winston-Salem in helping families navigate these challenges.
Colorful magnetic letters spelling "Child Custody" beneath paper cutouts of two parents and a child, symbolizing family law issues and the role of a child custody attorney in determining parenting arrangements

Forsyth County Mediation and Custody Hearings

Most custody cases in Winston-Salem go through the Forsyth County Custody Mediation Program, located in the Hall of Justice downtown. Unless the court waives it due to domestic violence or similar issues, mediation is mandatory before a trial can take place.

If your case proceeds to court, it will be heard at the Forsyth County District Court. We’ve handled hundreds of these cases and will be by your side every step of the way—preparing you thoroughly and advocating with confidence.

Emergency and Temporary Custody in Winston-Salem

If your child is in immediate danger due to abuse, neglect, or threats of being taken out of state, you may qualify for emergency custody. These orders are handled quickly but must be supported by strong evidence. Our team moves fast—we’ll file immediately and work to secure your child’s safety as a top priority.

A young girl stands between two adults, each holding one of her hands, symbolizing a custody struggle and the involvement of child custody lawyers in Winston-Salem to help resolve disputes in the child's best interest.
A close-up of a legal document titled "Custody of child" with reading glasses resting on top, representing the legal complexities handled by child custody lawyers in Winston-Salem.

Custody Modifications in Winston-Salem

Life changes. If you’ve experienced a significant change—like a job relocation, remarriage, or concerns about your child’s safety—we can help you seek a custody modification through Forsyth County courts.

We work with you to determine whether your circumstances qualify as a “substantial change,” then guide you through the legal process to request a revised order.

Protect What Matters Most

Don’t face the legal system alone. Our experienced Winston-Salem custody attorneys will listen to you, partner with you, and fight for your rights as a parent.

Let’s talk today. Call our Winston-Salem office or schedule your consultation online.

Most custody matters are heard at the Forsyth County Hall of Justice in downtown Winston-Salem, including initial hearings, emergency filings, and modifications.

Yes. Mediation is typically required unless the court grants a waiver due to domestic violence or similar concerns.

Emergency custody can be granted quickly—sometimes in 24 to 72 hours—if there’s a clear risk of harm to the child.

Possibly. Out-of-county or out-of-state residency won’t disqualify the other parent but may impact the visitation schedule. We can help build a plan that prioritizes your child’s well-being.

You’ll need to file a motion with the Forsyth County Clerk of Court and show that a substantial change in circumstances has occurred. Our team can guide you through that process.

Schedule Your Confidential Custody Consultation

Fill out the form below, or call (336) 962-7221 to request a consultation.

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