Can Equitable Distribution Mean Unequal Division in North Carolina?
Equitable distribution in North Carolina is presumed to mean an equal split of marital property, but what happens if this division is unfair or unjust?
Equitable distribution in North Carolina is presumed to mean an equal split of marital property, but what happens if this division is unfair or unjust?
North Carolina family law cases often decide on some of the most important elements of a person’s life. From property and assets in a divorce to child custody arrangements, the outcome of these cases can significantly impact everyone involved. If you feel that the court’s decision is incorrect or unjust, you may be able to file an appeal.
The US Constitution’s Full Faith and Credit Clause[1] requires states to honor certain orders from other states, including divorces, child custody, and spousal support. However, not every family law matter is straightforward, and moving to North Carolina from out-of-state may present some challenges and unexpected changes. Continue reading →
Either party in a divorce can request equitable distribution, but that request must be made before the divorce is final.[1]
Equitable distribution is the process in which the court determines how best to divide the spouses’ assets and debts, specifically their marital property and divisible property.[2] This is often a preferred method when there are significant assets, numerous financial accounts, or multiple pieces of real property. Continue reading →
Equitable distribution cases involving high-net-worth parties and spouses with significant assets require careful consideration to classify, valuate, and distribute property. Each piece of property must be classified as marital, separate, or divisible as a first step in equitable distribution. Determining which category each asset belongs to can be a lengthy process when there is a significant number, and valuating all the property presents further complexities. Continue reading →
READ V. READ, 2023-NCCOA-______ (2023)
Imagine that you and your wife separate from each other. It is now 15 years later. While you have both moved forward in life, neither of you filed for divorce. You are still married. One day you get a notice in the mail. There was an outstanding loan that originated during the marriage, while you two were still together, that has not been paid and now the lenders are threatening some legal action. Is it too late to file for equitable distribution and have a court order that you both pay on the debt? Continue reading →
FOSTER V. FOSTER, 2023-NCCOA-______ (2023)
When it comes to the division of marital property, one question we are commonly asked is what happens if the value of an asset, such as a home, increases during the pendency of the case? In North Carolina, there is a specific provision of the law addressing this exact scenario: divisible property.
Divisible property is a term within North Carolina’s equitable distribution laws that relate to the distribution of assets and liabilities in a separation and divorce. Continue reading →
Achraf Hakimi is an unknown name to most Americans. However, in Europe and most of the world, he is famous as the starting right back for Paris Saint-Germain, one of the most famous soccer teams in the world, and he represented his home country, Morocco, in the latest World Cup. Needless to say, Mr. Hakimi is quite successful on the football pitch (soccer field) and has been rewarded handsomely for his talent. His contract at Paris-Saint Germain is rumored to be in the range of a million dollars a month. He’s had some legal issues recently; specifically he is under investigation by French authorities for an alleged rape. And even more recently, likely due to the underlying allegations, his wife has filed for divorce. Continue reading →
Dolan v. Dolan, 148 N.C. App. 256 (2002).