One parent can be awarded more physical time with their child or children than the other parent. This is called primary custody. In this event, the parent with less time is awarded visitation. If there is a history of domestic violence or drug abuse, the abusing parent may be limited to supervised visitation or even no visitation.
Visitation is a way to maintain a healthy relationship between the non-custodial parent and his or her child or children. In North Carolina, unwed parents are viewed the same as married parents with respect to their rights to their children.