FAMILY LAW BLOG

North Carolina Adoption Basics
The North Carolina statute on adoptions governs how adoptions are done in NC and it is based in large part on the Uniform Adoption Act. Adoption proceedings are special proceedings before the clerk of the superior court, but appeals and all cases with issues of fact...

Bankruptcy & NC Family Law
This is a short guide explaining what to do if your spouse files a bankruptcy during a pending family law action. This is specific to North Carolina and should be considered irrelevant to any other state. It is not legal advice and you should consult an attorney if...

DVPO in NC
I’m scared of my girlfriend; how do I get her out of the house? A domestic violence protective order may be your best option. We typically refer to these as DVPOs and they can do a number of things: remove someone from a residence, compel no contact and prohibit...

10 Q&A Bankruptcy & Family Law
1. My spouse filed bankruptcy in the middle of our divorce. What will that do to my credit? The short answer is that it depends. For debts that ONLY your ex owed, there should be nothing reported on your credit. For debts that only you owe, those debts are not...

10 FAQ Equitable Distribution in NC
1. What is Equitable Distribution in NC? Equitable Distribution in NC is the division of assets (property) and debts that were the product of a marriage. 2. My husband and I are separated. How will our property be divided? NC is an equitable distribution state....

Top 10 Questions About NC Custody
1. What is the “default” custody? If you were never married or if you just filed a “simple” divorce, then custody can be quite messy. While everything may run smoothly if you’re getting along, what happens when you’re not? Unfortunately, many people think that being a...

Top 10 Questions About Child Support
1. How is Child Support Calculated? Every state determines child support by its own laws. Typically, child support depends on each parent's income (and, to some extent, expenses), the age of the children, and how many children are involved. You can find child support...

Changes to the Uniformed Services Former Spouse Protection Act
Changes to the Uniformed Services Former Spouse Protection Act The quick summary: In 2017, members of the armed forces will benefit from the first substantial development in the Uniformed Services Former Spouse Protection Act (USFSPA) in over a decade. On December...

Special Concerns for Military Service Members
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act At the beginning of World War II, Congress passed the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Act, also known as the SSCRA. This act remained largely unchanged, despite being updated in 1991, until December 19, 2003, when Congress...

Calling All Homewreckers
Homewrecker: "Paramour (noun • par·amour • \ˈpa-rə-ˌmu̇r\) à A person with whom someone is having a romantic or sexual relationship and especially a secret or improper relationship" We all know how it goes… Husband starts working late nights, goes on more “business...