Divorce

How Do I Divorce a Spouse Who Lives in Another State?

Published on: January 11, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

How Do I Divorce a Spouse Who Lives in Another State?

The decision to divorce often comes after a long period of discord or discontent. In North Carolina, couples can file for a no-fault divorce based on irreconcilable differences. Couples are required to live apart for a period of at least one year before they can seek an absolute divorce in North Carolina. In some cases, one or both parties may move out of the area where they originally resided. When this happens, it can complicate the divorce process. If you are seeking a divorce from a partner who lives out of state, it is helpful to seek guidance from an experienced North Carolina divorce attorney.

Residency and Jurisdiction

Preparing for Your First Meeting with a Divorce Attorney

Published on: January 4, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Preparing for Your First Meeting with a Divorce Attorney

You have decided to end your marriage, and now you are ready to begin the divorce process. While you are not required to have an attorney, a knowledgeable divorce attorney will most certainly make the process easier and less stressful. You can help the procedure if you properly prepare in advance for the first meeting with your divorce attorney. Your lawyer will typically provide you with some information prior to your meeting.

List Assets and Debts

How Do I Begin the Divorce Process?

Published on: December 28, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

How Do I Begin the Divorce Process?

It can be difficult to make the decision to end your marriage. Once you know that there is no hope for saving the union, you will need to start the divorce process. North Carolina allows for a no-fault divorce, so you can obtain a divorce because you and your spouse have irreconcilable differences. There are two types of divorce, including divorce from bed and board and absolute divorce. When you want to end the marriage completely, you will likely want to file for an absolute divorce. A knowledgeable North Carolina divorce attorney will help guide you through the process of obtaining an absolute divorce.

Required Separation

What You Need to Know About Divorce in North Carolina

Published on: December 21, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What You Need to Know About Divorce in North Carolina

The divorce rates have been decreasing, but there is still a significant number of marriages that will end. Although divorce is not easy, it may be the best solution for some families. Divorce does not have to be overly stressful. If you can review the many issues that will be part of a divorce settlement, you can prepare for a more amicable resolution. Understanding divorce settlement issues will help you better work through these important issues. A knowledgeable North Carolina divorce attorney will help you navigate the divorce process.

Divorce From Bed and Board

How Can I Enforce a Child Support Order?

Published on: December 14, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

How Can I Enforce a Child Support Order?

When you went through a divorce, you were probably quite happy when the process was over and the judge provided an order. Now you and your family can get on with your lives and can begin a new chapter. Things are going along nicely until you stop getting child support payments, or maybe the payments are less than they are supposed to be. At first, your ex simply says he will catch up later, but soon you start to realize that the payments are falling far behind. What can you do to enforce a child support order? A knowledgeable family law attorney can help you through this difficult time.

Understanding Child Support

What is Free-Range Parenting and How Can it Affect My Divorce?

Published on: December 7, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What is Free-Range Parenting and How Can it Affect My Divorce?

People have different styles of parenting their children. When parents are married or living together as a family, they may choose to adopt a particular parenting style. Sometimes parents do not agree on the way they want to parent their children. This difference can be particularly challenging when parents are divorced or living apart. Free-range parenting is a term that has been recently popularized.

Free-Range Parenting

What Should I Include in a Prenuptial Agreement?

Published on: November 30, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What Should I Include in a Prenuptial Agreement?

Prenuptial agreements are becoming more popular. While many people think that only the rich or famous can benefit from a prenup, it is a helpful document for most couples. The prenup is an excellent way to provide guidance for how to handle the many issues that occur if a couple parts ways. In North Carolina, marital property is divided in an equal manner in a divorce. The prenup can define precisely how to divvy up your property. The prenup has value for both parties, but only if it is made in an enforceable way. A knowledgeable attorney will help you with a prenup that fits your needs.

Benefits of a Prenuptial Agreement

Alimony FAQ

Published on: November 23, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Alimony FAQ

When you and your spouse divorce, one partner may need to pay money to the other for living costs and other expenses. The word alimony originates from the Latin word “alimonia” which means sustenance or nourishment. In North Carolina, alimony is also called spousal support. When couples divorce, alimony may or may not be appropriate. There are many questions people have regarding spousal support. An experienced North Carolina divorce attorney will help you through the process and answer your questions about alimony.

What are the Different Kinds of Alimony?

Tips for Parenting Through the Holidays After Divorce

Published on: November 16, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Tips for Parenting Through the Holidays After Divorce

Parenting can be challenging, especially for those who are divorced. Whether you are going through a separation, are recently divorced, or have been apart for a while, it can be difficult to navigate the schedule with your children around the holidays. While you would like to have your children with you throughout this special time, they also need to spend time with their other parent. Grandparents also want to spend time with their grandchildren. Here are some tips to help you get through the holidays without unnecessary stress.

Plan Ahead

Is Common Law Marriage Legal?

Published on: November 2, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “How will the judge divide our property?”

Marriage may be less popular today than it was decades ago. Back then, cohabitation was frowned upon and people were not likely to have children outside of marriage. Over the last 40 years, societal norms and conventions have changed and it is perfectly acceptable for couples to live together and even become parents outside of marriage. Many times, couples live together for a period of time before they get married. Other times, couples continue to cohabitate without ever taking marriage vows. While living together without formally getting married may suit a couple, it can make it more difficult if they decide to part ways.