Parental Rights Lawyers in Concord, NC 

Protecting Parents In & Around Cabarrus County

A parent’s relationship with their child is one of the most critical legal interests the law protects. When that relationship is threatened, the consequences can be immediate and lasting. 

At Lancaster and St. Louis, PLLC, we stand firmly with parents facing challenges to their parental rights, providing focused, strategic advocacy during some of the most stressful moments a family can experience. Our attorneys understand how deeply personal these cases are and work diligently to protect your role in your child’s life while guiding you through a complex legal process.

Schedule an in-person or phone consultation with a Concord parental rights attorney by phone at (980) 705-8372 or by reaching out online. 

How We Help Parents Protect Their Rights

Parental rights disputes often arise suddenly and involve heightened emotions, tight deadlines, and serious allegations. We help you understand where you stand under North Carolina law, the risks you may be facing, and the steps you can take to protect or restore your rights.

Whether the issue involves a custody dispute, a court petition affecting parental authority, or allegations that question a parent’s fitness, our firm provides clear counsel and steady representation tailored to the facts of each case.

We regularly assist parents in presenting evidence, responding to claims made by another parent or agency, and advocating for outcomes that preserve meaningful involvement in their child’s upbringing whenever possible.

Our approach is informed not only by litigation experience, but also by practical insight into how courts manage ongoing parenting conflict. Hilary St. Louis is a court-certified parenting coordinator. This role involves helping parents implement custody orders, resolve day-to-day disputes, and reduce conflict without the need for repeated court intervention.

This perspective allows our firm to anticipate how judges view parental cooperation, decision-making, and compliance, and to advocate for solutions that are both legally sound and workable in real life.

Situations That Can Threaten Parental Rights

Parents may face challenges to their rights in a wide range of circumstances, including:

Custody & Visitation Disputes

Disagreements between parents over custody or parenting time can result in court orders that significantly limit a parent’s role. Allegations regarding stability, decision-making, or the child’s best interests can directly affect custody determinations.

Domestic Violence Allegations

Claims of domestic violence can lead to immediate restrictions on contact with children, including temporary custody orders or supervised visitation. Even unproven allegations may influence early court decisions, making prompt legal representation critical.

Substance Abuse or Mental Health Concerns

Concerns about alcohol or substance use, untreated mental health conditions, or prescription misuse are often raised in custody cases and child welfare proceedings. These allegations can place a parent’s rights at risk if not properly addressed and supported with evidence.

Involvement of Child Protective Services (DSS)

Investigations by the Department of Social Services may result from reports of abuse, neglect, or unsafe living conditions. DSS involvement can lead to temporary removal of a child, court oversight, or requirements that a parent complete services before reunification.

Termination of Parental Rights (TPR)

In the most serious cases, a petition may be filed to permanently terminate a parent’s legal rights. Grounds may include neglect, abandonment, failure to provide support, or long-term incapacity. These cases carry permanent consequences and require immediate, informed legal action.

Adoption Proceedings

A parent’s rights may be challenged or terminated in connection with a stepparent or third-party adoption. Understanding consent requirements and the legal standards involved is essential to protecting a parent’s position.