Representing Women in Divorce
Divorce and custody cases present unique financial and practical challenges for many women. Our attorneys focus on protecting your rights and your future.
Homemaker vs. Breadwinner
Often, though not always, a woman plays the role of homemaker and primary caregiver for the children. When the marriage ends, she may suddenly face a financially uncertain future. Many of the women we represent are highly educated and could have had prosperous careers of their own, but the couple chose to prioritize the husband’s career while they were married. That choice made sense at the time, but it can leave a woman at a significant disadvantage when facing divorce with a husband who does not want to pay support for her or the children.
Finding a divorce attorney who understands what matters most to you, and who will fight to protect your interests, is important for many women going through a separation.
How We Help Women Through Divorce
Child Support & Custody
We work to secure fair child support terms so your children can maintain the quality of life they’re accustomed to, and we can file a motion for contempt if a father falls behind on payments.
Spousal Support
We help ensure you receive the spousal support you may be entitled to, especially where career decisions during the marriage affected your own earning potential.
Equitable Property Distribution
You are entitled to an equal share of property built or acquired during the marriage. We help make sure that share is fairly represented and protected.
Objective Guidance Under Pressure
The stress of divorce can make it tempting to rush through important decisions. We provide objective, experienced guidance so you don’t give up rights you’re entitled to.
You’re Entitled to What You’ve Earned
It’s understandable that many well-earning women don’t want to feel like they’re asking for “handouts” from an ex-partner. But equitable distribution isn’t charity, it’s a legal right to an equal share in property built or acquired during the marriage. An attorney representing your interests can objectively assess these matters and help you make informed, confident decisions rather than rushed ones.
How We Can Help
At McIlveen Family Law Firm, we have considerable experience representing women in North Carolina divorce cases. We assist with child custody and support, modification and enforcement of child support, equitable property distribution, and other related matters.
Common Questions
What if my husband was the only one earning income during our marriage?
North Carolina’s equitable distribution law entitles you to a fair share of marital property regardless of whose name is on the title or who earned the income, and you may also be entitled to spousal support depending on your circumstances.
What if my ex isn’t paying child support on time?
An attorney can help you file a motion for contempt against a parent who falls behind on court-ordered child support, and pursue enforcement to collect what’s owed.
I gave up my career to support my husband’s. Does that matter?
Yes. Career sacrifices made during the marriage can be relevant to spousal support and property division determinations, and an experienced attorney can help make sure this history is properly presented to the court.
Do I need my own attorney, or can we share one?
Each spouse needs their own attorney to represent their individual interests. A single attorney cannot represent both spouses in a divorce.
Explore More on Divorce in North Carolina
Ready to Protect Your Future?
Our attorneys are experienced in representing women through divorce, custody, and support matters in North Carolina.