property distribution

How Long Does a Contested Divorce Take?

Published on: February 22, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

How Long Does a Contested Divorce Take?

Going through a divorce can be difficult, but it may be much more challenging when one party contests the divorce. When that happens, the divorce process becomes more lengthy, and it can extend how long it takes to complete the process. In North Carolina, couples must be separated for a period of at least a year before they can move forward with a divorce. Although a couple resides apart, one party may not agree with the divorce or with some of the settlement terms. An experienced North Carolina divorce attorney will help guide the process and assist in resolving disputes.

What is a Contested Divorce?

Current Issues in Family Law

Published on: January 19, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “What does uncontested divorce mean?”

Each year, millions of spouses across the United States seek the services of experienced local divorce attorneys who focus on not only divorce, but various other areas of family law such as child custody and property distribution. While some aspects of family law remain relatively stable over time and throughout different jurisdictions, others are prone to frequent change based on a number of factors.

Distributing Property in a North Carolina Divorce

Published on: July 14, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “How will the judge divide our property?”

In North Carolina, residents take pride in their work. The money they earn in exchange for their time and skill allows them to build capital and make purchases and investments that can greatly enhance their quality of life, as well as that of their families. When couples decide to marry, joining finances allows them to build wealth on a greater scale. However, when these couples elect to file for divorce, questions about this wealth are certain to arise.

Guidelines for Divorce in North Carolina: A Primer for Residents

Published on: June 30, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: ” I’m not getting along with my husband. We’ve been married two weeks and it was a mistake. Can’t I just get an annulment?”

Five Reasons Why You Should Establish Paternity as an Unmarried Father

Published on: April 14, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “Can I keep my Kids from seeing the other parent?”

A child born during a marriage is automatically considered an heir to both parties of the marriage. However, when a child is born to unmarried parents, the father should establish paternity (the unmarried mother is legally considered the parent).

Do You Need a Divorce Attorney if Your Divorce is Amicable?

Published on: November 4, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “How long does getting a divorce take?”

Uncontested divorces, also known as amicable divorces, tend to be less complicated than contested ones. If you and your spouse are able to resolve many or all of the issues in your divorce, your divorce is considered amicable in North Carolina.

Five Mistakes That Could Hurt Your Child Custody Case in North Carolina

Published on: July 8, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “What are my custody rights if the other parent moves?”

For many parents who are going through a divorce, child custody becomes their top priority. In fact, many parents do not care that much about alimony and property distribution as they do about custody.

Five Simple Ways to Reduce the Cost of Divorce in North Carolina

Published on: June 10, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “How much does it cost to get divorced, and how does the billing process work?”

Most people believe that getting divorced is a costly endeavor in North Carolina. In fact, some couples choose to stay married for this reason alone. While divorces can be costly, it does not necessarily mean that your divorce will be expensive.

COVID-19: 6 Unintended Consequences of Getting a DIY Divorce in North Carolina

Published on: May 6, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “What does uncontested divorce mean?”

As court proceedings in North Carolina were postponed until June 1, 2020, many North Carolinians are becoming increasingly frustrated about the inability to get divorced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

How Does Social Media Affect Your Divorce, Alimony, Child Custody in North Carolina?

Published on: March 18, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “How is social media evidence used in divorce proceedings?”

People routinely use social media sites such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to express their opinions and share what happens in their daily lives. While others may simply scroll through your posts and photos (or comment, like, and repost them), your soon-to-be-ex-spouse and his or her attorney will be looking at everything you post through a magnifying glass when your divorce case is pending.