Chapel Hill Divorce Attorney

Providing Family Law and Helping Divorce Cases Throughout The Hillsborough North Carolina Surrounding Area

Whether by consensus or not, ending a marriage can be both emotionally and financially difficult. The Chapel Hill family law attorney at Browner Law, PLLC can work with you to establish reasonable goals in the divorce process and then achieve them as efficiently and effectively as possible.

Our goal is simple: to protect you, your rights, and your future.

When Should You Hire A Divorce Lawyer?

Because of their very nature, divorces tend to stir extreme emotions. It is vital that you take your time and hire a divorce lawyer to work with you for your legal situation.

A lawyer in Chapel Hill, NC can also guide you by reviewing your contract in an uncontested divorce to make sure your rights and interests are safeguarded.

We encourage you to schedule a consultation with our divorce lawyer serving Chapel Hill, North Carolina by calling (919) 887-8662

Where to Start with the Divorce Process?

First, although it may be hard to address, begin to protect yourself. Limit any conversations regarding finances or commitments for the future and secure your finances and assets.

You should also be sure to document all interactions with your spouse regarding finances, treatment, and assets.

If you had an extramarital affair, talk to a North Carolina-based lawyer in Chapel Hill before discussing it with your spouse when possible.

If you have children under the age of 18, you should familiarize yourself with NC’s child custody laws and the process you may have to navigate.

At Browner Law, PLLC, our family law lawyer in Chapel Hill, NC require a $100 fee for your first consultation.

During this consultation, we will discuss the facts of your case and lay out a basic framework of how you may wish to proceed.

From there, our Chapel Hill divorce lawyer can discuss your options moving forward.

What to Do When Divorce is Inevitable in NC

If divorce is inevitable, the next step will be to retain counsel and begin to build a plan. This will require a deposit based on the projected complexity and length of your divorce case.

North Carolina law requires you to be separated from your spouse for a year before a petition for divorce can be filed. You must also have lived in North Carolina for a minimum of six months.

If possible, you should consult with our attorneys in Chapel Hill, NC before moving out of the marital home since this may impact alimony and other factors.

That said, your safety should come first if there is violence in the home.

When you are ready to move forward, your divorce case will be filed and the legal process will begin. This may include depositions, motions to obtain evidence or establish facts, and a timeline. If the case is simple and amicable, the process can be completed relatively quickly.

If not, it can take some time—but usually not more than several months.

During your separation, our family law attorneys can address the many issues that may arise, including:

• Child custody
• Property division
• Alimony
• Child support

Is It Better To Get A Lawyer for Divorce?

If you and your partner are on the exact same page about what you desire for your household, you might be able to convert time and money by not hiring a divorce lawyer to go to trial for your case. There may be a way to negotiate a settlement on your own.

However, couples tend to hit roadblocks throughout the settlement procedure, so be prepared to think about mediation and/or employ a divorce attorney if that happens.

How Do I Prepare For A Divorce In NC?

In order for you to prepare for a separation in Chapel Hill, NC, one of the first things to do is secure access to cash. Here are 5 steps to take:

• Open a separate bank account
• Transfer a part of any savings into that account after you consult your family attorney about an amount
• Get a cash advance from credit cards if needed
• Suspend joint credit cards and accounts
• Prepare a budget plan

Does It Matter Who Files for Divorce First in NC?

It does not matter who files for divorce first in NC. Unfortunately, some people decide to file for divorce first to "get the advantage" of their ex-spouse quickly. However, each spouse will have an opportunity to present their case in court.

Take the First Step in Your Divorce in Chapel Hill

If you are considering filing for divorce in Chapel Hill, NC it is in your best interest to retain a competent family lawyer.

Our family law attorneys at our Hillsborough County-based law office, has nearly two decades of experience to put to work for you.

Call our Chapel Hill, North Carolina divorce law firm today at (919) 887-8662!