High Point's source for legal information on Family Law 
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Family Law Elements

 

Divorce 

In North Carolina, divorce is simply a change in marital status, commonly achieved after a one year separation.

 

Child Custody

The custody of minor children is typically settled by an agreement between the child's parents.  However, in such cases where an agreement cannot be reached, a judge will listen to evidence presented by the involved parties to determine a custody arrangement.

Child Support

Child support is frequently determined by an agreement between the parents of the child, based upon the North Carolina child support guidelines.

Separation Agreements

Separation agreements are used to determine child custody, divide property, and handle post-separation child support & alimony.  

Post Separation Support 

Post separation support is support paid to a dependent spouse after the date of separation.  It can be the result of a mutual agreement or a court order.  It terminates upon divorce unless there is an action for alimony in place.  

Alimony

Alimony is money paid by a supporting spouse to a dependant spouse.

 

Equitable Distribution

Marital assets are divided by considering the circumstances of each spouse and may be determined by a judge.  Such determinations are usually based upon statutes of the state of North Carolina.