Domesticating Out-of-State Orders

When a party or parties relocate to North Carolina, or where one party lives in another state, out-of-state court orders, also known as foreign orders, often require enforcement. In North Carolina, the process of making a foreign court order (typically a child custody or child support order) enforceable is known as domestication. For child custody orders, enforcement of foreign orders involves the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA), which ensures that custody determinations made in one state are recognized and enforced in another state.

If you need assistance enforcing a foreign court order in North Carolina, our experienced attorneys are ready to help you. We are here to help guide you through the process and reach the best possible outcome. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or for answers to your questions about domesticating foreign orders.

Jurisdictional Issues

In North Carolina, filing and pursuing claims in a specific county is subject to that Court’s jurisdiction. Whether the issues involve child custody, child support, equitable distribution, or any other family law issue, each claim involves unique assessments for identifying which Court is entitled to claim jurisdiction. In some cases, issues of jurisdiction are considered waivable and may require time-sensitive action to preserve and pursue claims.