Divorce: The Big Picture

Robin M. Mermans, Esq

Divorce is many things. But pleasant, is rarely a word that comes to mind when thinking of this often unwelcome life event.

Instead, most couples think of divorce as: exhausting, emotional, overwhelming, sad, trying, intense, and complicated. Beyond being a difficult time personally, divorce can also be further complicated by inconsistent divorce laws, making it expensive, confusing, and time-consuming.

Depending on what you state you live in, divorce can take on even more layers of complications. Divorce laws vary from state to state. And, it can be tricky to find an accurate source of information for your unique situation, in your specific location.

The ROAD to RESOLUTION Divorce 101 Series
can help you differentiate the fact from the fiction, and guide you towards the resources you need to help maneuver this difficult time in the most painless and effective way possible.

We’ll help support you by supplying you with the knowledge you need most during this challenging and turbulent time in your life.

Divorce Defined

Let’s begin with a high-level look at exactly what divorce looks like for couples who live in the state of North Carolina:

Divorce, as defined, is the legal dissolution of a marriage by a court or other competent body. It is a process in which two people terminate a marriage or martial union.

But, this dissolution of marriage, as it is often called, is complicated and there are a variety of options for couples who are ending their marriage..

And defining exactly what the difference is between a true divorce and legal separation are quite different in the eyes of the law; particularly in North Carolina

What You Need to Know about Divorce in North Carolina

In North Carolina, there are two grounds for divorce:

  1. An absolute divorce may be granted based on one year’s separation or incurable insanity. For each, both parties must live separately and apart for either one year (separation) or three years (incurable insanity).

    It is important to note that it is not enough for the parties to move into separate bedrooms in the same residence, with a discontinuation of sexual relations. The separated couple must live in different places for the entire 12-month period.

  2. Additionally, in order to obtain a divorce in the state of North Carolina, you must have resided in the state for at least six months.

Both of these points must be accomplished before you can legally divorce in the state of North Carolina.

I know, it all sounds pretty complicated. And during this trying time, the last thing you want to do is spin your wheels trying to figure it all out.

That’s where our services can help.

Why ROAD to RESOLUTION can be a great tool for you

When my partner and I agreed our marriage was over, we wanted to handle our divorce civilly--and make decisions together without a judge. We didn’t want our path to follow a traditional divorce journey. Instead, we wanted to follow a much more collaborative process. And, like anyone going through this process, we wanted to try and save as much time and money as we could.

This is ultimately what inspired me to open ROAD to RESOLUTION in 2011 as a non-attorney mediator. Shortly after, I obtained a law degree in order to expand the services I was able to offer my clients. And, today ROAD to RESOLUTION is a place where cooperation and collaboration are cultivated, and the best interest of the family remains the focus.

Today, I am happily remarried, and I hope that my own experience with divorce and co-parenting shed light on the realities of life after the divorce and helps you create an enduring agreement that is in the best interest of the entire family.

We strive to make ROAD to RESOLUTION a non-adversarial law practice. We are dedicated to fostering a space for cooperation and collaboration.

How to tell if we’re right for you

If you and your partner are looking for a collaborative and non-adversarial divorce, our Charlotte-based practice could be a perfect fit for you. We work closely and carefully with families outside of court to settle their matters through collaborative divorce, mediation, and private agreements.

You're the ideal couple for collaborative divorce or mediation if:

  • You both agree the marriage is over
  • You want to handle your divorce civilly
  • You can make sound decisions without a judge
  • You are committed to fairly dividing your assets
  • You want to save time, money, and unnecessary emotional turmoil

Ready to take the next step? Give us a call today at (980) 260-1600 to learn more about the legal consequences of separation and filing for divorce. Our Charlotte-based team is here to help you.

Note: This blog is intended to be informational only and shall not be construed as legal advice.

Robin M. Mermans, Esq
Founder and Principal Attorney

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Contact our law firm today to schedule an initial consultation.