Child Custody & Visitation
SC Child Custody Attorneys Protecting Your Parental Rights
When your children's future hangs in the balance, understanding South Carolina's custody laws is essential for protecting your parental rights. For over 17 years, McDow & Urquhart, LLC has helped parents throughout Rock Hill and York County secure favorable custody arrangements that serve their children's best interests.
Our education-first approach ensures you understand exactly what judges consider when making custody decisions. With our comprehensive understanding of South Carolina family law, you'll gain the knowledge necessary to protect your parental rights and make informed decisions about your children's future.
We believe informed parents make better decisions that serve their children's interests. That's why we educate every client about custody law, parental rights, and effective co-parenting strategies.
Understanding Your Rights in Child Custody & Visitation
Education First: Child Custody & Visitation Rights
We educate you about effective co-parenting and long-term relationship building with your children.
When trial court decisions are unfavorable, we know how to win appeals and protect parental rights.
Attorney Erin K. Urquhart's Guardian ad Litem Certification provides insider perspective on how court-appointed advocates evaluate families.
17+ Years York County Family Court Experience
Why Clients Choose McDow & Urquhart for Custody Cases
Our intimate knowledge of local judges and successful custody strategies provides significant advantages.
Guardian ad Litem Certification
20+ Appellate Court Victories
Education-First Philosophy
Mediation preparation, settlement negotiations, and court advocacy when litigation becomes necessary for protecting your rights.
Advocacy & Resolution
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Documentation of parenting history, witness coordination, and preparation for potential Guardian ad Litem involvement.
Evidence Development
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Comprehensive case evaluation including your relationship with your children and complete education about South Carolina custody law.
Strategic Assessment
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The McDow Law Custody Process
Your Path to Resolution
Serving York County & Charlotte Metro Families
Local Family Law Experience That Makes the Difference
Rock Hill • Fort Mill • Tega Cay • Lake Wylie • Clover • York • Lancaster • Charlotte Metro Area
Our Primary Service Areas
Our five decades of practicing exclusively in South Carolina Family Court means we understand what works within the SC Courts. We know which arguments work with which judges, how to navigate local procedures efficiently, and what strategies produce maximum results in our local courts.
When you're fighting for your children's future, home field advantage isn't optional—it's essential.
Why Local Knowledge Matters
Community Connections
- Established relationships with local Guardians ad Litem
- Knowledge of area schools and childcare resources
- Understanding of regional family dynamics
- Connections with local counselors and child specialists
McDow & Urquhart LLC is located across from Winthrop University's campus - at 514 Oakland Avenue, Second Floor, Rock Hill SC 29730-3532.
Our Office Location
We're Here to Help You Navigate Your SC Custody Case
Visitation Protection - Securing meaningful time with your children through strategic scheduling
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Evidence Building - Documentation techniques that prove your parenting capabilities and involvement
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Custody Types - Joint custody vs. sole custody implications and strategic considerations
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Best Interest Standard - Understanding the specific factors judges use to determine custody arrangements
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- Luke S.
"Our case went all the way to the South Carolina Supreme Court and took over 7 years to complete"
We won, and couldn't have done it without McDow's help. He is uncompromising, driven, and brilliant. He pushed us forward even when we felt like giving up. There are many ineffective attorneys available—choose McDow for results.
Emergency Custody Situations
If your children face immediate danger, call (803) 327-4151 or contact local emergency services immediately.
Our emergency response capabilities:
- Same-day consultation and case assessment
- Emergency court filings and protective orders
- Temporary custody arrangements pending resolution
- Child safety concerns or abuse allegations
- Parental substance abuse creating danger
- Domestic violence affecting children
- Custodial parent attempting to relocate without permission
When Immediate Action Is Required
Some situations require urgent legal intervention to protect children.
McDow & Urquhart, we're here to help you navigate South Carolina's child custody laws with confidence
Professional Credentials:
- University of South Carolina School of Law (J.D.)
- Certified Guardian ad Litem
- 20+ published appellate court victories
- Former York County Bar Association leadership
SC Attorney & Child Custody Advocate
Attorney Erin K. Urqhuart
Yes, when substantial changes in circumstances affect the children's best interests, such as changes in employment, remarriage, or relocation.
Can I modify an existing custody order?
Courts consider parental fitness, parent-child relationships, home environment, and co-parenting capability among other factors.
How do courts determine the "best interests" of children?
There's no specific age when children can choose. Judges may consider older children's preferences as one factor among many.
What age can children choose which parent to live with?
Absolutely. South Carolina law does not favor mothers over fathers. Courts focus solely on children's best interests regardless of gender.
Can fathers get custody in South Carolina?
Common Questions about Child Custody
Starting the separation process or facing a divorce can be daunting. We've put together a comprehensive 87 page guide to ensure you make informed decisions throughout your legal journey.
The Roadmap: Separation & Divorce in SC
Separation and Divorce in South Carolina
Your Guide for
Getting Started
get the free guide
Written by McDow & Urquhart
Disclaimer: Information posted on this page is not legal advice. It neither makes us your lawyers nor you our client. No attorney-client relationship exists until you hire us as your lawyers.
