Our last blog reviewed the underlying facts of the case Brown v. Rodriguez, a 2024 unpublished opinion. This blog will explain what happened when the case was appealed.
Why Did the Plaintiff’s Appeal Fail in Court?
After the judge’s
Woodruff Family Law Group
Woodruff Family Law Group is a legal organization specializing in family law matters, primarily serving clients in North Carolina. The group publishes blog content focused on family law topics such as child custody, divorce, arbitration awards, and co-parenting challenges. Their posts often analyze recent court decisions, explain legal requirements for custody and divorce proceedings, and provide practical advice for single parents and families undergoing transitions. Additionally, they address related community issues, including support for local animal shelters and the treatment of pets in family law cases. The group aims to inform and assist individuals navigating family law processes with an emphasis on procedural correctness and client support.
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What If a Judge Doesn’t Believe You in a North Carolina DVPO Hearing? (Part 1 of 2)
Are you heading into a domestic violence protective order hearing? For many in this situation, one worry tends to underpin many others – and it’s one they may be afraid to say out loud:
What if the judge doesn’t believe…
Business Goodwill in Divorce: What the NC Supreme Court’s New Ruling Means for Business Valuation
By Carolyn J. Woodruff, JD, CPA & CVA
The NC Supreme Court’s Sneed v. Johnston decision changes how personal and enterprise goodwill are analyzed when valuing a professional practice in equitable distribution.
A Major Development in North Carolina Business Valuation in Divorce
On August 14, 2026, the Supreme…
When a Juvenile Case Ends, Can a Custody Case Move Forward Again?
If a custody dispute exists, the involvement of children in a juvenile neglect case can put that dispute on hold. That pause may be necessary while the juvenile court considers safety issues. But what happens when the juvenile case is…
When Can a Custody Order Be Changed in North Carolina?
For children caught in the middle of a divorce, few things feel more uncertain (or more frightening) than not knowing what their daily life will look like going forward. Child custody orders are meant to change that by giving families…
Is a Permanent Custody Order Always Permanent in North Carolina? (Part 2 of 2)
Our last blog covered the facts of Williamson v. Smith (909 S.E.2d 926). Father argued that the custody order was permanent, while the mother argued that it was not.
The Court of Appeals sided with the mother. Why? Whether…
Is a Permanent Custody Order Always Permanent in North Carolina? (Part 1 of 2)
The term “permanent” in a custody order holds extra weight at first glance. After all, if the title says “Permanent Custody Order”, it’s easy to assume that the arrangement can only be changed if something occurs that is substantial enough…
When Can You Appeal a Temporary Custody Order in North Carolina?
Custody cases can move quickly when a judge believes a child’s relationship with a parent may be jeopardized, and that can be stressful for everyone involved. But even a huge change in custody isn’t always the final say on a…
The Extraordinary Life and Legacy of Willa Beatrice Player
America’s First Black Woman Elected President of a Four-Year College
Some lives seem to start ordinary only to end up making an impact that’s felt for generations to come. Willa Beatrice Player is one of these extraordinary people. In honor…
Can You Be Ordered to Pay Child Support After Losing Custody in North Carolina? (Part 2 of 2)
Our previous blog (linked here) gave the background on Sahana v. Fiscus, and discussed what constitutes income in a child support case. We conclude this blog with additional arguments from the mother and what this case could…