The decision to divorce is not always an easy one. When a marriage is no longer happy or healthy, it may be time to end the union. Divorce can be stressful, and in some cases, it can be a lengthy process. There are some things you can do to help make uncoupling easier, faster, and less complicated so you can close that chapter of your life. An experienced family law attorney will help guide the process from start to finish.
Prepare
North Carolina is a no-fault divorce state. North Carolina requires couples to live apart for a period of at least one year before they can divorce. This gives parties plenty of time to prepare for an orderly process. It is helpful to gather important documentation regarding finances, bank accounts, and assets as well as debts. You will also need to ensure that you have access to the funds you need for regular expenses during this period.
Communicate
Good communication with your spouse is helpful when going through a divorce. It is helpful to be able to talk to your spouse so you can iron out the many issues you need to settle. Set some ground rules to make communication more effective. Don’t rehash the problems from your marriage; instead, focus on being respectful and listening to each other. Keep in mind that not every issue is a major concern in the grand scheme of things.
Compromise
North Carolina divorce laws provide for an equal distribution of marital property. Generally, couples must work together to agree to a fair settlement. First, determine which property is considered marital property, which belongs to both parties. Then, decide how to divide it in a way that is equitable to everyone. Choose which matters are the most important so you can make the necessary compromises along the way. Give and take is one of the keys to an amicable divorce.
Mediate
If you can’t easily resolve disagreements on your own, don’t wait too long to seek assistance. Mediation is a type of alternative dispute resolution (ADR). A mediator is a professional who has training and experience working with couples to resolve difficult matters. Mediators help couples come to an agreement regarding specific issues that may be holding up a divorce. A mediator will facilitate communication and reduce the type of conflicts that can stall the process. Mediators are impartial third parties who understand conflict resolution. If a mediator is necessary, your lawyer may attend the sessions with you.
Seek Experienced Legal Counsel
A knowledgeable attorney will simplify divorce. Your attorney understands all the legal aspects of divorce and will work with you to make things as easy and stress-free as possible. Your lawyer will discuss the many issues that are unique to your particular situation and will help to resolve minor disputes quickly, before they can escalate. Your lawyer will also work with your spouse’s attorney to ensure a smooth process.
If you are ending your marriage, we are here to help. Our compassionate and skilled attorneys are here to answer your questions and discuss the details of your case. To learn more, contact us at Arnold & Smith, PLLC, at (704) 370-2828 to schedule a consultation.
The family law practice group at Arnold & Smith, PLLC includes two Board-Certified Family Law specialists and one Child Welfare Law specialist, as well as several attorneys with many years of family law experience that are committed to providing a powerful voice to individuals facing the often-tumultuous issues in this area of law. The range of issues our family law clients may be facing include pre- and post-nuptial agreements; separation agreements; post-separation support; child support (both temporary and permanent); absolute divorce; divorce from bed and board; military divorce; equitable distribution of assets; child custody (both temporary and permanent); retirement benefits and divorce; alimony and spousal support; adoption; and emancipation. Because this area of the law is usually emotionally charged and complicated, the family law attorneys at Arnold & Smith, PLLC act with the utmost dedication to ensure that each client understands his or her options, and then act to achieve the best result possible for that client’s particular situation.
Source:
https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/no-fault_divorce
https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/mediation
Image Credit:
https://www.freeimages.com/photo/joyful-boardroom-meeting-0410-5698019
See Our Related Video from our YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/user/ArnoldSmithPLLC?feature=watch
See Our Related Blog Posts: