Jennifer Lynn Shephard, Child Custody Attorney in Gastonia, North Carolina

Jennifer concentrates on child custody, child support, and family law. Each area below outlines the kind of case Jennifer handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Child Custody

  View other Child Custody attorneys

• Child Support

  View other Child Support attorneys

• Family Law

  View other Family Law attorneys

Jennifer's primary office is at 174 S. South Street, Gastonia, NC, 28052. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new child custody attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Jennifer usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Jennifer discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in child custody practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Jennifer for a child custody case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Jennifer walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Jennifer offer a free consultation?

  Jennifer charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Jennifer's office. Some child custody attorneys offer free consults — check Jennifer's current terms during booking.

• How long do child custody cases in North Carolina typically take?

  Simple child custody matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Jennifer gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Jennifer take my case if I'm outside Gastonia?

  Jennifer is licensed in North Carolina. Matters governed by North Carolina law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Jennifer will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Jennifer?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Jennifer will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Jennifer accepting new child custody clients right now?

  Jennifer's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.