FAQS About Adoption
Below are some frequently asked questions about Adoption: What types of adoption exist in North Carolina? NC has different types of adoption to meet different family needs. The types of adoption procedures in North Carolina...
FAQS About Family Law
Below are some frequently asked questions about Family Law: What kinds of cases do your family law lawyers represent? Our Speaks Law Firm, PC Family Law Division attorneys handle many different types of family law...
FAQS About Modifications
Below are some frequently asked questions about Modifications: What conditions qualify for a post-divorce agreement modification? Agreements made during a divorce such as alimony (spousal support) or child support payments may require updating over time....
FAQS About Paternity
Below are some frequently asked questions about Paternity: How do I establish paternity for my child in North Carolina? North Carolina presumes fatherhood for a man married to the mother during her pregnancy or at...
FAQS About Guardianship
Below are some frequently asked questions about Guardianship: What is guardianship? Guardianship is a legal relationship that enables a court-appointed person to make decisions on behalf of another person who cannot make decisions for themself....
FAQS About Prenuptial And Postnuptial Agreements
Below are some frequently asked questions about Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements: What is a prenuptial agreement? A prenuptial agreement is a contract between two spouses who are planning to marry. This contract can cover many...
FAQS About Protective And Restraining Orders
Below are some frequently asked questions about Protective and Restraining Orders: What is a domestic violence protective order? North Carolina law recognizes a few different types of protective and restraining orders. The most common protective...
FAQS About Domestic Violence
Below are some frequently asked questions about Domestic Violence: What is the definition of domestic violence? Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior used to gain control over another person in a domestic relationship....
FAQS About Equitable Distribution
Below are some frequently asked questions about Equitable Distribution: What is equitable distribution in a divorce? Equitable distribution is a method of distributing marital property in a divorce. Different states have different property division methods....
FAQS About Separation Agreements
Below are some frequently asked questions about Separation Agreements: Why do I need a separation agreement? In North Carolina, separated couples must live apart for a year before they can file for divorce. This legal...
FAQS About Alimony
Below are some frequently asked questions about Alimony: Who may qualify for alimony in North Carolina? Not every North Carolina divorce warrants alimony or spousal support payments. An NC family law court is unlikely to...
FAQS About Child Support
Below are some frequently asked questions about Child Support: How do North Carolina courts establish child support? Separated or divorced parents in North Carolina have two ways to establish child support: (1) through a private...
FAQS About Child Custody
Below are some frequently asked questions about Child Custody: How does child custody work in North Carolina? In North Carolina divorces, one co-parent typically gets primary physical custody as the parent with whom the child...
FAQS About Divorce
Below are some frequently asked questions about Divorce: Who can file for divorce in North Carolina? Our firm’s experienced Wilmington divorce lawyers can clarify all the filing requirements for North Carolina divorces. You can start...
Wilmington, NC Law Firm Releases Complimentary Divorce Kits for Men and Women
WILMINGTON, North Carolina—Speaks Law Firm, PC Family Law Division announces the release of complimentary divorce kits for men and women that address the unique needs of each when contemplating divorce and seeking additional information. Offered...
7 Strategies for Divorcing a Narcissist in Wilmington, North Carolina
Sarah had been married to John for 10 years, but it felt like a lifetime. John was charming and charismatic, but he also had a dark side. He was manipulative and controlling and had an...
How Long Do Alimony Payments Last in Wilmington, North Carolina?
If you have recently divorced in North Carolina, you may wonder, “How long do alimony payments last?” The answer varies in every situation and depends on several factors ranging from terms specified in the divorce...
How is Alimony Determined in NC?
If you and your spouse are divorcing in North Carolina, you may wonder, “How is alimony determined in NC?” Alimony, also known as spousal support, is distinct from other types of court-ordered support. Read below...
Adoption: What Are the Requirements To Adopt a Child in North Carolina?
Where are you in your journey to adopt a child? There are several ways to adopt a child in North Carolina, and there are both general requirements and others that are specific to particular types...
Child Custody: How to Co-Parent During Holidays in North Carolina
Are you sharing custody of a child or children? We understand it’s never easy, but it can be even more contentious during the holidays. Of course, you and your former spouse want to spend precious...
What You Should Expect in Divorce Court in North Carolina
Wilmington Family Lawyers Divorce hearings can be scary for anyone. They are even more intimidating if you are getting divorced for the first time. Are you wondering what to expect in divorce court? There is...
Speak With An Attorney From Day One
What Is Contempt Of Court In Family Law? While a family court is a court within the civil court system (in contrast to the criminal court system), when a family court issues an order, the...
What Forms Do I Need To File a Divorce in Wilmington, NC?
Filing for Divorce Not only is filing for a divorce an emotionally demanding process, it is also a legally intensive one. To be sure, in order to file for a divorce, one will need to...
How Long Does Alimony Last?
Marriage is more than a romantic union; it is also a financial one. Often, one spouse will end up much worse off financially after a divorce, and North Carolina empowers judges to award alimony to...
How Long Does Alimony Last After a Divorce in North Carolina?
During a divorce case, a judge will often award alimony if one spouse financially depends on the other. Alimony is also called spousal support or maintenance. Depending on the circumstances of a divorce, a court...
How Does Inheritance Factor Into Asset Division After a Divorce in North Carolina?
About Asset Division in North Carolina If you are getting divorced in North Carolina, you may have questions regarding who has the right to claim an inheritance. Does your spouse have the legal right to...
How Do You Serve Child Custody Papers in North Carolina?
A child custody dispute has two sides, and a court needs to hear from both before deciding on such an important issue. If you file court paperwork first, then you will need to inform the...
How Can a Mother Lose Custody of Her Child After Divorce in North Carolina?
Divorce Attorney Wilmington NC North Carolina vigorously protects the parent-child relationship, allowing each parent to be involved in their children’s lives. However, in some cases, the state will remove a child from the mother’s home...
Do You Have to Go to Court for a Divorce in Wilmington, NC?
Divorce Attorney Wilmington NC According to the Centers and Disease Control and Prevention, the divorce rate in America is slowly declining. 3.2 per 1,000 marriages end in divorce. However, divorce is still a sad reality....
An Experienced North Carolina Divorce Lawyer Answers the Most Frequently Asked Questions
When you first consider getting a divorce, you will experience a wide range of emotions. Knowing that your marriage may end is a difficult realization frequently accompanied by many questions and concerns. You’re aware that...
Why Should I Hire a North Carolina Divorce Attorney Instead of Filing On My Own?
If you are considering divorce, you might also be considering whether you need to hire an attorney or if you can handle filing for divorce on your own. After all, you’ve found some suitable online...
A North Carolina Alimony Attorney Answers Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re considering divorce, you likely have concerns regarding how your divorce will impact you financially. Divorce can be one of the most challenging times in a person's life. A significant source of stress for...
Common Questions About Separation Agreements in North Carolina
You may be contemplating divorce but also wonder about separating to see if the marriage can be saved. Your friend was recently in a similar situation and discussed how her separation agreement had given her...
How to Start Divorce Proceedings in North Carolina
For some couples, getting a divorce is the best thing they can do for their family. The divorce process can be long and difficult, and if you have decided divorce is the best option, you...
Why Have Divorce Rates Gotten So High in The United States?
With almost 50% of marriages in the United States ending in divorce or permanent separation, it is safe to say that divorce is very common in the country. But, why is the divorce rate so...
Divorce Rates for Second Marriages
About 50% of first marriages in the United States end in divorce or permanent separation. These statistics paint a bleak picture but also suggest that a significant number of Americans get into subsequent marriages. In...
Divorce Rates by Profession in The US
The modern work lifestyle comes with many perks, including financial stability, but it also has its own demerits. The additional stress of maintaining a hectic schedule to meet deadlines, impress employers and customers alike, and...
What Effects Will My Divorce Have On My Children's Mental Health?
About 39% of marriages in the United States end in divorce. No matter how unfortunate, divorce is more common than most people care to admit. When marriages dissolve, all members of the family are affected....
What Happens to a House in a Divorce?
When going through a divorce, there is no shortage of things to worry about. The divorce process can be long, frustrating, and confusing, but one of the most important things to iron out — from...
What Is the Difference Between Legal Separation and Divorce in North Carolina?
The decision between legal separation vs. divorce can be a challenging one. Each option is a significant change in your marital status and could require a lengthy legal process. To make an informed choice, it...
What Are the Rights of a Custodial Parent in Wilmington, NC?
A custodial parent is a parent that is granted custody of a child following a separation agreement or divorce proceeding. In the case of a custody proceeding, the decision is made by a judge after...
Can Both Parents Be the Custodial Parent After a Divorce in North Carolina?
The custodial parent is the parent who is granted custody of the child or children in a separation agreement or custody proceeding. Simply put, this is the parent whose home the child spends most of...
Where Should You File for Divorce in North Carolina?
If you decide to divorce your spouse in North Carolina, you should know the specific procedures and requirements you need to satisfy. You should also make sure you have met the eligibility requirements in the...
What You Need to Know About Mental Illness and Its Impact on Divorce
There are many reasons a couple could decide to file for a divorce. According to a multi-national study conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, mental illness is one of these reasons. The study...
How Do The Courts Decide Who Gets Custody of a Child After a Divorce in Wilmington, NC?
The divorce process can be emotionally and physically taxing. It often involves lengthy negotiations about crucial matters such as alimony, property distribution, and child custody. Are you going through a divorce and worried about your...
What Are the Benefits of Joining a Support Group While Navigating Your Divorce?
Divorce is an often-overwhelming process. It can be mentally and emotionally taxing on both parties. Most times, you will need the support of friends and family to get through the tough times and remain positive....
Firefighter Divorce Rate in Wilmington, North Carolina
You probably know several firefighters from your neighborhood, and they all have a similar story to tell. They are either divorced or have never been married. The main question, however, is, what is the leading...
Parents of Multiples Divorce Rate
Having multiple children at the same time can be quite challenging for any parent. Having multiples is never easy as the logistics indicate that you will have increased spending and financial commitment to supporting your...
What To Do If Your Spouse is in Contempt of Court After a Divorce Settlement in Wilmington, NC
If your spouse is violating a divorce decree, you might try to force him or her to adhere to the terms. However, the most reliable course of action is to head to court right away...
How to Help Your Kids Cope With Your Amicable Divorce in Wilmington, NC
A divorce is never easy. It gets even harder when there are kids involved. Divorcing amicably may involve agreements by both parents on various matters including, child support, spousal support and property division. Amicable divorce...
What Should I Wear to Divorce Court in Wilmington, NC?
Appropriate Clothing Despite our own preferences in clothing, a divorce hearing calls for formal attire. Wearing inappropriate clothes to a divorce Court gives the impression that you are not taking the event with the seriousness...
Everything You Need to Know About the Effects Your Divorce May Have on Your Teen
Teenagers Vs. Kids Reaction to Divorce About 61.96 million couples are married in the U.S. and a majority of those marriages will last till death do us part. Sadly, about 40-50% of couples will divorce...
What Are the Child Custody Laws for Unmarried Parents in North Carolina?
Unmarried Parents Under North Carolina, mothers and fathers do not stand on equal footing when they are unmarried. Instead, the mother has sole custody of the child until the father establishes paternity. In many cases,...
What Are Some Commons Reasons the Firefighter Divorce Rate is So High?
Firefighters and Divorce You might have heard that firefighters get divorced at a higher rate than the general public. Many websites hype this “fact” and even claim that the rate of divorce is astronomical when...
What You Need To Consider When Planning to Tell Your Kids About Your Divorce
Telling your children about your divorce is not only difficult but also painful. It might be the hardest conversation you have in your life. Your children will definitely remember the conversation for a long time....
What To Consider When Drafting a Child Custody Agreement in North Carolina
Parent Planning Child custody is often a divisive issue in a divorce. However, parents can work together to reach a child custody agreement that works for everyone. By reaching an agreement, parents spare their children...
What Does It Mean When a Divorce Claim is Dismissed in North Carolina?
Don't Want to Divorce? Many people get cold feet when it comes to divorce. Couples who were sure they could no longer live together might actually work through their problems and realize that they want...
What Happens Next After You're Served Divorce Papers in Wilmington, NC?
What Are The Steps To Take? Divorce should not strike you as a bolt out of the blue, at least not in North Carolina. Our state requires that a couple have lived separately for at...
How Long Does It Take to Get a Divorce in Wilmington, NC?
Speak With An Attorney Getting divorced in North Carolina can take anywhere from 30 days to numerous months. If you are thinking about filing for divorce, you may be wondering how long a divorce takes...
What You Need to Know About the Risks of Getting an Online Divorce in North Carolina
Avoid Online Divorce Services The Internet has revolutionized the legal profession. More people than ever before are drafting wills and creating trust by using online programs. However, when getting a divorce in North Carolina, it...
Everything You Need to Know to Understand Divorce Law for Men
Men and Divorce For many different reasons, men face some unique challenges when getting divorced. While society has transformed and the laws have changed, there are still some biases against men that remain within the...
What Is the Process of Getting a Common Law Divorce in North Carolina?
CommonLaw Marriage A common law marriage is one in which a couple lives together and holds themselves out to be married to their friends and family members — without actually having an official ceremony or...
What You Need to Know About No-Fault Divorce in Wilmington, NC
More Affordable If you and your spouse are thinking about dissolving your marriage, you have the option of filing a fault or no-fault divorce. While there are some advantages to each, unless circumstances demand it,...
The Top 4 Most Common Myths You May Still Believe About Getting a Divorce
Myths When you married your spouse, divorce was probably the last thing on your mind. In fact, even if you and your spouse formed a prenuptial agreement, separating in the future wasn’t something you were...
How Does Moving Out of State Affect Child Custody Agreements in Wilmington, NC?
Moving and Child Custody During the course of your life, you may relocate out of North Carolina for a number of reasons. This is true even for parents who have custody arrangements concerning their children....
How to Prepare for a Child Custody Case in North Carolina
Child custody cases are one of the most emotionally difficult experiences a parent may encounter. It is always best for parents to try to resolve their differences by way of a parenting agreement. When parents...
What You Need to Know About Proving Adultery in Your Marriage in Wilmington, NC
Adultery is a crime in North Carolina. The actions of an adulterous spouse can have far-reaching impacts on civil matters as well, including your divorce case. In addition to your divorce case, it can affect:...
Everything You Need to Know About Child Support Payments in North Carolina
If you are in the midst of a divorce in Wilmington, North Carolina and you have children, the thoughts of who will be paying child support payments – you or your spouse – have undoubtedly...
How to Modify Child Custody Agreements in Wilmington, NC
When two people are not married and have children in Wilmington, North Carolina, child custody will inevitably be a topic of discussion. Regardless of why the parents aren't married is important, but when kids are...
What You Need to Know About Adopting a Baby in Wilmington, NC
Adopting a baby is a unique and special time in your life. You are likely experiencing a variety of different emotions – scared, nervous, happy, relieved – and that’s just to name a few. Here...
Can I Get a Divorce Without Partner Consent in Wilmington, NC?
No one ever took the vow of marriage with plans for a messy divorce. When you decide to divorce your spouse, it can be a very painful process that is stressful not just for you,...
Can I Modify My Child Custody Visitation Rights or Schedule in North Carolina?
In most cases of legal separation or divorce, one of the most controversial issues that come up is child custody. Not only can there be complications regarding the custody of the children, but there are...
What Is The Process of Adopting a Newborn Baby in North Carolina?
Anyone who is planning on adopting a baby in Wilmington, North Carolina should be aware that the laws are complex and difficult to navigate. That is why it is important that you seek the help...
How Does Infidelity Affect the Outcome of a Divorce Case in Wilmington, NC?
When it comes to divorce and family law, North Carolina is a no-fault state. That is, the state law in North Carolina does not, in general, hold a party to be at fault for a...
Could Child Support Payments Be Reduced Over Time in Wilmington, NC?
In Wilmington, North Carolina family law cases, child support payments are an amount determined by the court paid by a non-custodial parent to a custodial parent each month in order to support the ongoing needs...