Determining how military benefits should be awarded to spouses and former spouses after the death of a servicemember is complex and based on a variety of factors, including the date and manner of the servicemember’s death and which military benefit is in question. Continue reading →
Let’s be real, breakups are the worst. From your first heartbreak to the ending of your last relationship, it never gets any easier. While there’s many different ways to cope, you just can’t beat listening to a good breakup song. The problem is that many are overplayed and don’t pack the same punch. That’s why, for International Strange Music Day, we’ve made a list of the best out-of-the-ordinary breakup songs you can put on to help heal your broken heart. Continue reading →
Divorcing spouses are not guaranteed to receive an equal distribution of their marital assets and debts. If either spouse requests equitable distribution, the court will divide their property in a way that is determined to be fair, which isn’t always 50/50. Continue reading →
North Carolina law allows modification of alimony orders based on changed circumstances of either party, paying or receiving alimony. The same factors used for establishing alimony awards must also be used when determining whether to modify an award. These factors include marital misconduct, the relative earnings and earning capacities of each party, their health, their sources of income, the assets and liabilities of each party, and their relative needs. Continue reading →
Anyone who suspects that a child is being abused or neglected can make a report to the Department of Social Services or Child Protective Services in North Carolina. This system is intended to protect children and ensure they have safe caregivers and homes. If a report is determined to be unfounded, it means that an investigation found no evidence of the reported neglect or abuse. Continue reading →
By Paul K Mengert, II, JD
Moving out is not a good first step to divorce.
Moving out can seem like the obvious first step to ending an unhealthy relationship. But moving out has many potential repercussions for married individuals in North Carolina, making it an impulsive and bad decision. Continue reading →
By Cheri’ Reaves, NCCP
After a deep conversation with a close friend, I felt the need to share something urgent. We were talking about children, technology, and how early they’re being introduced to smartphones, tablets, and social media. This isn’t just about screen time—it’s about real dangers lurking behind those screens. Continue reading →
Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) award retirement benefits to someone who is not the owner or payee of the plan. This person is called the alternate payee, and they are often spouses and ex-spouses. Retirement benefits can be considered marital property and divided in equitable distribution during divorce proceedings. However, since some divorces can take years to finalize, there are many considerations for property distribution, including the death of either spouse. Continue reading →
Equitable distribution can be requested in North Carolina divorces, which means the court will determine the fairest way to divide assets and debts rather than dividing property evenly. The presumption is typically that any property acquired during marriage is considered marital property and therefore is subject to equitable distribution. However, there are exceptions such as inheritance and certain gifts. Continue reading →
Summer is the best time of year; schools are out, you get to spend time with your kids, and the weather is great! However, the summer months can be tricky for divorced parents since there are often custody agreements to consider. The good news is that there are tons of fun activities in the Triangle that make it easy to create unforgettable memories with your kids. If you’re looking for summer vacation ideas you and your little ones are sure to love, this article’s for you! Continue reading →
North Carolina Divorce Lawyers Blog