This may not come as a surprise to you, but there is significant reason to believe that social media activity harms marriages. For example, one study analyzed several different models of marriage and found a statistical link between social media use and a decrease in...
A Brighter Future Awaits.
Family Law
Engaged? A premarital agreement can build financial intimacy
If you’re getting married, congratulations! Now, let’s talk about why you (both) need a premarital agreement (“a prenup”). If you haven’t noticed this already, you will soon enough. You and your fiancé(e) may love each other deeply. You may have a lot in common. You...
3 ways to split time with the kids during spring break
When you have children together and divorce, you will need to decide how to fairly divide your time parenting – and that includes holidays and school breaks. Spring break is special because it’s often a convenient time to take a week-long holiday with the kids. Spring...
My child left my grandkids with me. Can I get custody?
Maybe. It depends on the circumstances, such as whether leaving them with you was intended to be temporary and whether they have remained involved in their children’s lives. When grandparents seek custody, however, there is usually something serious going on. Your...
My separated spouse took the kids and won’t let me see them. What do I do?
First of all, let us say that we understand how frantic you must feel. It’s an urgent situation and your spouse is very likely violating your rights. You need to talk to an attorney as soon as possible. During the separation period before a North Carolina divorce,...
How do I co-parent positively when my ex is in another state?
Co-parenting when you live in different states takes both sensitive parenting and clear communication. Especially if the kids spend the entire school year with one parent, the other parent may feel they are missing their children’s childhood. It’s harder for the kids,...
Come to mediation prepared to ask for what you want
Divorce and child custody mediation are required by North Carolina law. The good thing is, they are also usually a good idea. The best way to take advantage of mediation is to prepare in advance so you know what you want to negotiate toward. A divorce trial is...
We’re getting a divorce. Why should we have a separation agreement?
North Carolina law doesn’t require a separation agreement before you can get a divorce, so why get one? Isn’t it just an added expense? No, it's not just an added expense. You should definitely negotiate a separation agreement, and a good one may well pay for itself....
I want custody but I’m unmarried. Is a paternity acknowledgement enough?
No. If you want parental rights, you need to file a paternity action. This doesn’t have to be acrimonious. Your girlfriend or ex-girlfriend might not oppose the action. You may already have acknowledged paternity at the hospital. If you did, you probably have a Child...
How do you divide a 401(k) in divorce without paying penalties?
You probably know that you will face early withdrawal penalties and taxes if you take money out of your 401(k) before you reach retirement age. You probably also know that your 401(k) account will be divided in your divorce. If you were to write your spouse a check...
