Divorce & Family Law

Under North Carolina law, you must live separately and apart for at least one full year before you can file for an absolute divorce. During this period, at least one spouse must intend for the separation to be permanent. "Separate and apart" means living in different residences — not just different rooms.

At least one spouse must have lived in North Carolina for six months before filing for divorce. The divorce can be filed in the county where either spouse resides.

Divorce costs vary, with the national average around $15,000. An uncontested divorce, however, may cost as little as $5,000. King & Rowe works to keep your expenses low by tailoring services to your specific needs.

An uncontested divorce means both parties agree on every detail of the process, so there's usually no need to appear in court. While a judge still reviews and approves the agreement, this approach is far more affordable than going through litigation.

Each divorce is different. When both parties reach an agreement quickly, an uncontested divorce can often be completed in just a few months. If your case is more complex, the timeline may be longer. At King & Rowe, we often suggest options like mediation to help make the process faster, smoother, and more cost-effective.

While it's possible to file for divorce on your own, it's highly recommended to consult an attorney — especially if you have children, shared property, or financial concerns. A family law attorney ensures your rights are protected and your agreements are legally enforceable.

Most counties in North Carolina require mediation before a custody or equitable distribution case goes to trial. Mediation allows you to reach agreements privately and efficiently, with help from a neutral third party. If mediation fails, a judge will make final decisions in court.

North Carolina follows equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. The court considers factors such as each spouse's income, contributions, and needs when dividing assets and debts acquired during the marriage.

Not necessarily. "Equitable" means fair — the court considers multiple factors to determine what's just in each case, which may or may not be an even split.

Alimony is based on one spouse's need for support and the other's ability to pay. Courts look at income, earning potential, length of marriage, marital standard of living, and misconduct (such as adultery). Adultery can significantly affect eligibility for alimony in North Carolina.

Yes. If the dependent spouse committed adultery, they are generally barred from receiving alimony. If the supporting spouse committed adultery, alimony is almost always awarded.

Yes. Alimony may be modified or terminated if there's a significant change in circumstances — such as job loss, retirement, or the recipient's remarriage.