Lake Norman Divorce Lawyer

Lake Norman Divorce Attorney

Divorce is a life-altering event that comes with many legal, logistical, financial, and emotional difficulties. Even if you agree with your former spouse on the big issues, plenty of problems can arise. If you are considering divorce or are currently navigating separation, an experienced Lake Norman divorce lawyer can provide guidance and assistance in this challenging time.

Our Background

Lassiter & Lassiter Attorneys at Law has been helping the people of the Lake Norman area for over 50 years. We are a family-run business, with our lead attorney, T. Michael Lassiter Jr., taking leadership of the firm when his father retired in 1994. Our firm has strong ties to the region and has aided in hundreds of divorces and other family law matters.

North Carolina Divorce Overview

North Carolina has a higher-than-average divorce rate. In 2023, there were 2.7 cases per 1000 people, higher than the nationwide rate of 2.4 per 1000. Divorce in North Carolina primarily comes in two forms: absolute and divorce from bed and board. Both types of North Carolina divorce carry different limitations.

Absolute divorce, or no-fault divorce, requires that spouses live in separate homes for one year before the divorce can be finalized. Fault-based divorces can supersede this delay through a process called divorce from bed and board. Qualifying grounds for this type of divorce require a spouse to commit one of the following actions:

• Abandoning their family
• Cheating
• Excessive drug or alcohol use
• Kicking their spouse out of the house
• Abuse
• Other actions that make the other spouse’s life intolerable and burdensome

Hire a Lake Norman Divorce Lawyer — Lassiter & Lassiter Attorneys at Law

Divorce is challenging already without the added burden of going through the process alone. While you can represent yourself in your divorce case, it is recommended to hire a divorce lawyer. A Lake Norman divorce attorney from Lassiter & Lassiter Attorneys at Law can help you with every stage of the proceedings. We can assist with the initial petition for divorce, negotiations, and finalizing the agreement.

Each divorce has its own unique complications, but divorces typically involve many of the same factors. The following are some aspects of divorce that your divorce lawyer can aid in:

Mediation

Divorce negotiations can get tense due to their personal nature. To avoid costly litigation, a divorce lawyer can serve as a mediator. The mediator’s role is to be a neutral third-party who can guide discussions and encourage clear communication.

Divorce Litigation

When mediation is not an option, litigation may be required. In contested divorces, litigation is where key components of divorce are decided. Your divorce lawyer can fight for your interests throughout the potentially lengthy process, both in and out of court.

Child Custody & Support

Determining who gets primary custody can be one of the most contentious aspects of a divorce. Even when custody is straightforward, details like the amount of child support and visitation rights can be challenging. Having legal counsel can ensure that you and your spouse find an agreement that works for you, your spouse, and your children.

Property Division

Property division is the process during divorce cases in which all shared assets are split up. North Carolina is an equitable distribution state, meaning that marital property is divided based on what is considered fair. In many cases, this results in a 50/50 distribution, but not always. Your divorce lawyer can represent you and argue for a final deal that accurately aligns with your needs.

Spousal Support

Spousal support, or alimony, is part of many divorces. A variety of factors are considered when deciding on spousal support, such as the difference in income, the standard of living, financial needs, and the duration of marriage. Long marriages are more likely to have alimony compared to short-term unions. A Lake Norman divorce attorney can advocate for your financial concerns during the negotiations to find an agreement that meets your needs.

FAQs About Lake Norman Divorce Laws

Where Do You Go to File for a Divorce in Lake Norman?

The location where you file for a divorce depends on where you live in Lake Norman. The area consists of four counties: Catawba, Iredell, Lincoln, and Mecklenburg. You must file with the court of the county you live in. For instance, if you live in Mooresville, you may need to go to the Iredell County courthouse in Statesville. Your divorce attorney can help decide if an in-person visit to your courthouse is required and what can be done online.

Who Should File for Divorce First in North Carolina?

Wondering when you should petition for divorce, or if you should be the one to do it, is a question some have when approaching separation. North Carolina has no preference for which spouse files during the legal proceedings. One benefit of being the one to file is that you can control the timeline of the divorce process and initiate it when you are prepared.

How Long Do You Have to Be Separated in North Carolina for a Divorce?

North Carolina state law requires you and your spouse to live separately before divorce. You must live apart for one year before your separation can be finalized. This only applies to no-fault divorce. If you are getting separated with fault, you may have grounds for divorce from bed and board, such as cheating or abusive behavior. Speak with your Lake Norman divorce lawyer to see if the one-year delay is needed in your case.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get a Divorce in North Carolina?

The price of divorce can be a pressing concern for some in Lake Norman. In general, the simpler the divorce is, the lower the cost it will be. An uncontested divorce in which both parties cooperate is usually the cheapest option. If you cannot afford court expenses, there are options available to reduce or waive certain fees.

Speak With a Lake Norman Divorce Lawyer Today

Contact us today for a consultation so we can learn your story and begin helping you plan your next steps. You can also visit our Statesville office, located on North Center Street in the heart of Downtown, a few blocks from the Statesville Civic Center.