Guiding You Through Your Transition
At Village Law Group, we understand that the end of your marriage is a very difficult and stressful time for every member of your family. We are here to help. Our experienced divorce lawyers can provide the legal guidance and compassionate support you need to protect your interests—and begin a new future.
Residency Requirements and Grounds for Divorce
The residency requirement for divorce in North Carolina is simple. Either you or your spouse must be a North Carolina resident for six months before filing for divorce. The divorce can be filed on either a fault or no-fault basis. A spouse can get a divorce simply by stating in divorce papers that the couple has been separated—meaning you have lived separate and apart without cohabitation—for at least one year and a day. There is no need to assign fault for the divorce or to state any reason other than separation for one year and one day.
The other recognized grounds for divorce in North Carolina is incurable insanity or mental illness lasting three years. Whether filing for divorce on a fault or no-fault basis, you can resolve the issues between you and your spouse before and during the separation period with a separation agreement.
Filing for Divorce in North Carolina
A divorce case begins when you or your spouse files a Complaint for Divorce with the district court. The divorce papers are served on the other spouse, who has time to respond. It is important to understand that a divorce only severs the marriage. It does NOT address the issues of child custody, child support, alimony, or property distribution.
If these issues are not dealt with prior to the divorce, obtaining a divorce can have a major impact on each spouse’s rights and obligations because the court may decide the matters for you both.
Help with All Divorce-Related Issues
Our TEAM can help you work out the numerous financial, logistical, and living arrangements of your divorce, including:
- Alimony & Support
- Child Custody
- Child Support
- Domestic Violence
- Legitimation and Paternity
- Property Division
- Parental Relocation
- Shared Parenting
- Name Changes
- Post-Divorce Modifications
- Division of Debt
Contact us at 919-525-2854 today to connect with a member of our team to see how we can help.