Lake Norman Contested Divorce Lawyer

Helping Clients Through the Contested Divorce Process in North Carolina 

When you and your spouse cannot settle on the terms of your divorce, you have a contested divorce. This means that you will need to go to court and have a judge decide the terms of your divorce for you. Contested divorces can be more stressful and time-consuming than uncontested divorces, but they are sometimes necessary. If you are facing a contested divorce, you need an experienced attorney on your side to help you navigate the process and protect your interests.

At The McIntosh Law Firm, we understand how difficult this time is for you, and we are here to help. Our Lake Normal contested divorce attorneys will work with you to understand your goals and develop a strategy to help you achieve them. We will be by your side throughout the entire process, fighting for your rights and best interests.

Call The McIntosh Law Firm today at (704) 892-1612 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our contested divorce attorney in Lake Norman.

What is a Contested Divorce?

A contested divorce arises when spouses cannot reach an agreement on key matters, such as property division, alimony, child custody, and child support. In these cases, the court becomes the ultimate decision-maker, stepping in to resolve disputes and make determinations on behalf of the parties involved.

Contested divorces often involve a higher level of emotional stress and legal intricacies compared to uncontested divorces. The process can be prolonged, and it requires a thorough understanding of North Carolina family law to navigate successfully. We are prepared to provide you with the experienced guidance you need during this challenging time.

Requirements for a Contested Divorce in North Carolina

Before initiating a contested divorce, it's crucial to understand the specific requirements outlined by North Carolina law. The following are key aspects to consider:

• Separation Period: North Carolina requires spouses to live separately for at least one year before filing for divorce. During this separation period, the parties may address issues like property division, alimony, and child custody.
• Jurisdiction: At least one spouse must have resided in North Carolina for a minimum of six months prior to filing for divorce in the state. Establishing jurisdiction is a vital aspect of initiating legal proceedings.
• Grounds for Divorce: North Carolina is considered a "no-fault" divorce state, meaning that neither party is demanded to prove wrongdoing by the other. The only ground for divorce is the separation period mentioned above.
• Filing the Complaint: To begin the contested divorce process, a spouse must file a complaint with the appropriate county court. This legal document outlines the grounds for divorce and the relief desired by the filing party.
• Response and Counterclaims: After receiving the complaint, the other spouse has the opportunity to respond. This response may include counterclaims, where the responding party outlines their own requests and concerns.

Navigating through these requirements can be intricate, and having an experienced contested divorce attorney is essential to ensuring that your interests are protected throughout the legal proceedings. Our team at The McIntosh Law Firm will work tirelessly to advocate for your rights during every stage of your contested divorce.