NC H186

Creates a rebuttable presumption that joint custody and shared parenting is in the best interest of the child in North Carolina custody cases.

Defines "shared parenting" as the child spending as close as possible to an equal amount of time with each parent.

Requires courts to establish a parenting schedule that maximizes time each parent has with the child when shared parenting is not warranted.

Maintains protections for domestic violence situations, allowing courts to modify custody orders and preventing a parent's absence or relocation due to domestic violence from weighing against them.

Ensures both parents have equal access to the child's health, education, and welfare records absent a court order to the contrary.