Divorce

Going through a separation and divorce can be one of the most confusing and emotional experiences that a person can face. Make sure you choose a professional that will advise you what is in your best interest to have these matters resolved.

It is important to know ALL your options, not just the option of litigating your case in a courtroom. Having litigated family law cases for over twelve (12) years, Shawna can advise you what your options are, and whether your case is best handled inside or outside of court. Most cases can be handled through a type of mediation or through a process called collaborative law. Far too many family law cases end up in a courtroom unnecessarily because clients do not know there are other options.

Once you have been separated from your spouse for one year and one day, you may file for absolute divorce. So, if you and your spouse separated on September 1, 2006, you can file for divorce on September 2, 2007. North Carolina is a “no fault” divorce state. The only factors relevant to the court are that (1) you and your spouse have been living separate and apart for at least one year, (2) that you have continued to live separate and apart with the intent to remain separated, and (3) that at least one of you, you or your spouse, has to have lived in North Carolina for at least six (6) months prior to filing the divorce action. There are certain claims that you may lose the right to pursue if they are not resolved or reserved before the court enters a judgment of divorce. Make sure you speak to an attorney about your rights.

If you want to know all of your options, call the Law Office of Shawna Collins to schedule a phone conference or an in office appointment with Shawna and find out the best course of action for your case.