North Carolina
How do I modify a custody order in North Carolina?
Quick answer
Under G.S. 50-13.7(a), a North Carolina custody order may be modified or vacated at any time, upon a motion in the cause and a showing of changed circumstances by either party or anyone interested, subject to the interstate jurisdiction rules in Chapter 50A.
Researched by Dan Martin, Legal Researcher · Published by Onbello Legal · Last updated October 2026
The showing you make
The Judicial Branch explains that to change a permanent order, your motion must allege, and you must prove, a substantial change in circumstances since the order was entered that is affecting the child in a way that requires the order to change to serve the child’s best interests. A temporary order can be revisited by scheduling another hearing in the case.
The form and the process
The statewide form is the Motion to Modify Custody (AOC-CV-634, Rev. 4/15), which lists the dates of the existing orders, states how circumstances have changed, and includes a certificate of service. Issues raised in a motion to modify are set for custody mediation unless the court waives it (G.S. 50-13.1(b)).
Orders from other states
A North Carolina court may modify another state’s custody order only in the circumstances in G.S. 50A-203, such as when the other state’s court decides it no longer has exclusive, continuing jurisdiction or that North Carolina is the more convenient forum, or when a court finds that the child, the parents, and any person acting as a parent no longer live in the other state.
Tools and resources
Where to check this
Forms, deadlines, and local rules change. Verify anything on this page against the official self-help resources for your state before you rely on it.
This page is general legal information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Laws and local rules vary and change. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed family-law attorney in your state.