Filing for divorce in North Carolina is simpler than in many other states in the US. This is primarily because this is a no-fault state, where you do not need to prove your spouse’s fault to ask for divorce. There are two basic requirements to file for divorce in NC –
- You must have lived in NC for six months prior to filing for divorce.
- You and your spouse have been separated for at least one year. The period should be consecutive six months.
Grounds for divorce in NC only includes incurable insanity, and in cases where there is evidence of spouse misconduct, divorce from bed and board can be sought. Note that divorce from bed and board isn’t a divorce, but more of a request to the court for separation.
If you don’t want to deal with the complexities of family law, it makes sense to ensure that you hire a lawyer. There are some amazing Wilmington divorce lawyers, who can help you understand the case and get your due rights.
Finding a lawyer
Finding the best lawyer for your divorce may not be an easy task. You can always ask around for references, but if that’s not a viable option, just check online. There are a few questions that you can ask when you meet an attorney for the first time –
- What is the divorce process like?
- How long have you been practicing?
- What to expect from this case?
- How do you charge?
- Will you deal with my spouse’s legal team?
- Can you help with the parenting plan?
- Will you offer updates on the case?
- Can you share a few references?
These are some basic things that a divorce lawyer should share with their client. The first meeting is always the most important one, and you can be personal with all aspects, because your attorney needs to know why you have opted for divorce in the first place. Also, do ensure that your divorce lawyer is accessible to answer your questions and they should be offering updates on a regular basis. Seek their advice as you can resolve everything in an amicable manner.
