Family cases in North Carolina courts, from a first filing to a modification years later.
Divorce
Whether you're thinking about divorce or you've already been served, the first thing you need is a clear picture of how it works in North Carolina, what it will cost, and what to do first.
Uncontested Divorce
If you and your spouse agree on the major issues, an uncontested divorce gets you through the court in North Carolina faster and for a fraction of the cost of litigation.
Child Custody
Custody is the part of a family case people worry about most. North Carolina courts decide it on the best interests of the child, and the parent who comes in prepared, with a realistic parenting plan and a record of involvement, is the one the court listens to.
Child Support
Child support in North Carolina follows a formula, but the inputs to that formula, income, the overnight schedule, health insurance and childcare, are where cases are won and lost.
Alimony
Alimony is the least predictable part of a North Carolina divorce because it depends on a list of factors rather than a formula.
Property Division
North Carolina divides marital property through equitable distribution: fair, which usually means close to equal, but not always.
Protective Orders
A North Carolina domestic violence protective order, often called a 50B, can be entered the same day and the full hearing follows within about ten days.
Legal Separation
In North Carolina, separation is the first legal step toward divorce, and it starts the day you begin living apart with at least one of you intending it to be permanent.
Modifications
Family court orders are built on the facts at the time. When the facts change, a job loss, a move, a new schedule, a child's needs, the order can change too.
This page provides general information about North Carolina law. It is not legal advice, and reading it or contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different and no outcome is guaranteed.