Equitable Distribution

What Does Equitable Distribution Mean in North Carolina Divorce?

Published on: October 15, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What Does Equitable Distribution Mean in North Carolina Divorce?

When a married couple decides to divorce, one of the most contentious aspects of the settlement may be the distribution of assets. Couples are expected to try to come to an agreement regarding how to split up their property, but it must be divided in an equitable manner. Before you can divide your assets, you need to understand the differences between marital property, separate property, and divisible property. A knowledgeable Charlotte divorce attorney will help guide you through the process.

Marital Property

Who Keeps the Home in a Divorce?

Published on: March 12, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Who Keeps the Home in a Divorce?

The marital home is likely one of the most valuable of all your assets. When couples divorce, they need to come to an agreement about how to divide their property, including the house. It is important to have a good understanding of your options so you can make a decision that is best for you and your family. A knowledgeable divorce attorney will answer your questions and help you through the process to achieve an equal distribution of your assets.

https://youtu.be/ScSEaYf1wIY

Divorced Parent Guide to Preparing for the School Year

Published on: October 9, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Divorced Parent Guide to Preparing for the School Year

Summer is quickly coming to a close, and school will start soon. Whether you are separated, newly divorced, or have been divorced for some time, you and your former spouse will need to work together to prepare for the upcoming school year. It is essential to establish routines and make the school year as easy and stress-free for your child as possible.

Implement a New Routine

Is Common Law Marriage Legal in North Carolina?

Published on: September 25, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Is Common Law Marriage Legal in North Carolina?

Marriage is less common than it used to be. Today, many more couples decide to live together without getting married. Some people live together as a trial before they wed, while others simply choose to cohabitate. Couples who live together generally do not have any of the benefits of marriage. However, in some states, if you live together as a couple long enough, you will automatically have a common law marriage. Not all states recognize common law marriage.

https://youtu.be/CM1ST8JOk7I

Tips for Navigating Divorce

Published on: September 11, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Tips for Navigating Divorce

Divorce can be one of the most stressful times in your life. Unless you have been divorced before, you may not know what to expect from the process. You might be feeling scared and unsure of how to navigate the process in a way that will be best for you and your family. A knowledgeable divorce attorney will help guide you through the procedure. Here are some tips for getting through the end of your marriage.

https://youtu.be/tnLTRpboTAw?si=UVXsEEP2wAstqK80

Which Spouse Should File for Divorce First?

Published on: September 4, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Which Spouse Should File for Divorce First?

When you decide to end your marriage, it is not always a choice that you and your partner make at the same time. If your marriage has been heading toward divorce, you are probably aware of the decline. But which person should file for divorce first, and are there any advantages or disadvantages to doing so? North Carolina is a “no-fault” divorce state, which means that regardless of who files first, the marriage is ending because it is irretrievably broken.

How the Divorce Process Works

Can I Make Changes to a Divorce Decree in North Carolina?

Published on: August 28, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Can I Make Changes to a Divorce Decree in North Carolina?

Divorce happens in at least a third of marriages. When you go through the divorce process, you and your spouse will agree on the major issues, called settlement terms. Once the divorce is final, the judge issues a divorce decree. The order provides for how to divide marital property, matters regarding child custody and visitation, and alimony, among others. When a divorce is final, both parties must abide by the order. If you violate the order, you could suffer legal consequences. So, what happens if you feel you need to make changes to the divorce order?

https://youtu.be/HJxjxQDbq-8?si=NGHZsIanHXI8Z7gw

Can a Parent Move Out of State With Their Child After Divorce?

Published on: August 21, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Can a Parent Move Out of State With Their Child After Divorce?

Divorcing with children brings many complications. One of the most important considerations is where your children will reside. While the law assumes both mothers and fathers are equally able to care for their children, in most instances, the children will reside primarily with one parent while the other parent will have regular visits. In today’s fluid society, many people move around the country, whether for work or personal reasons. What happens when one parent wants to move out of state with their children?

https://youtu.be/Li7s3lKCflA?si=U0MRrIbMtVGwz6GI

Five Common Questions About Divorce in North Carolina

Published on: August 14, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Five Common Questions About Divorce in North Carolina

Divorce can be complex and overwhelming. The decision to end your marriage is one of the most difficult decisions you will make, and it will have a long-term impact on you and your family. The best place to start the process is to learn as much as you can about what to expect with divorce in North Carolina.

What is No-Fault Divorce in North Carolina?

What is the Difference Between a Contested and Uncontested Divorce?

Published on: August 7, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What is the Difference Between a Contested and Uncontested Divorce?

When you say “I do,” you don’t expect the marriage to end in divorce. Unfortunately, many unions do not last forever. When you have made the difficult decision to end your marriage, it is time to begin the divorce process. The most important requirement to get a divorce in North Carolina is to live separately for a year. Many people wonder what the difference is between a contested and uncontested divorce.

Uncontested Divorce