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Unhappy mature couple sitting beside one another in bed. | New Direction Family Law

What To Do If Spouse Does Not Want to Sign Divorce Papers

Relationships Separation & Divorce

The decision to end a marriage is not always amicable between both parties. The dynamics of a relationship, financial dependence, children, and more can complicate the divorce process. Because divorces can be difficult and full of conflict, a spouse may…

Two rings sitting on a prenuptial agreement as a person signs the document.

Can You Get a Prenup After Marriage?

Relationships Wealth

Marriage is a beautiful union, but it’s also a legal contract that binds two individuals together. While no one enters marriage with the expectation of it ending, considering a prenuptial agreement (prenup) can be a wise decision. But what if…

Sad woman looking off with a man sitting behind her. | New Direction Family Law

Alienation of Affection in North Carolina: Your Questions Answered

Relationships Separation & Divorce

Picking up the pieces after a separation is always hard. It’s even more difficult when someone outside of the marriage causes the breakup. If a third party causes one spouse to lose the affection of the other, it’s called alienation…

A 2024 sign dangling in front of New Year’s lights and confetti. | New Direction Family Law

Episode 54 – New Year, New Me: How to Prepare if You’re Considering Divorce in 2024

Podcast Relationships Separation & Divorce

Ex-It Strategy Podcast Episode 54 Listen Now: Apple | Google | Spotify Hosts/Participants: Elizabeth Stephenson and Jen Bordeaux Elizabeth: Hi everyone. It’s Elizabeth Stephenson with New Direction Family Law, and I’m here on our podcast and coming up on the Christmas…

A young girl hugging her father next to a Christmas tree. | New Direction Family Law

A Guide For Holiday Travel as a Single/Divorced Parent

Lifestyle Parenting Relationships

Holidays are about family, joy and creating memories together. If you are a divorced and/or single parent, you and your children can have those magical moments too. While holiday travel may present unique challenges, with some thoughtful planning, open communication,…

Couple signing prenuptial agreement | New Direction Family Law

A Prenuptial Agreement: What You Need To Know

Relationships Wealth

In 2021, over half of North Carolina residents were legally married. There’s no denying that marriage is one of the most significant life events. It’s not a decision one should take lightly. Of course, no one plans to get divorced,…

Bride hugging a person in a tuxedo | New Direction Family Law

Marriage Advice from Divorce Attorneys

Podcast Relationships

Ex-It Strategy Podcast Episode 14 Hosts/Participants: Elizabeth Stephenson, Sarah Hink, and Jen Bordeaux Elizabeth: Hi everyone, I’m Elizabeth Stephenson. Sarah: And I’m Sarah Hink. Thank you for joining us today. We are going to talk about a topic that most…

Family-Sitting-together-on-sofa-laughing | New Direction Family Law

5 Ways To Model Healthy Relationships For Your Children

Parenting Relationships

In the complex world we live in, childhood experiences weave their way into the very fabric of who we become. Children, regardless of their age, are remarkably observant. Even when we assume they are preoccupied with other matters, they are…

Woman at table looking sadly at a group of papers, while a man in the background texts | New Direction Family Law

What To Know If Your Spouse Had An Affair

Child Custody Child Support Parenting Relationships

Learning that your spouse had an affair can feel like the world has turned against you. Fear about your future can be overwhelming, especially if you have children. It’s understandable to feel completely lost about the next steps you should…

White rose and wedding rings on Marriage certificate | New Direction Family Law

Could a Prior Divorce Affect Your Second Marriage?

Relationships Separation & Divorce

If you’re embarking on a second marriage, it’s natural to wonder how your prior divorce might impact your new union. Several factors come into play, particularly concerning child support, custody arrangements, and the need for prenuptial or postnuptial agreements. Child…

Man speaking with therapist while sitting on sofa | New Direction Family Law

Ask a Lawyer About Mental Health Issues and Divorce

Domestic Violence Health Lifestyle Relationships Separation & Divorce

Ask a Lawyer About Mental Health Issues and Divorce If you find yourself grappling with questions about the impact of mental health issues on divorce, it is advisable to reach out to a lawyer for assistance. Navigating the complexities of…

couple in bed

Adam Levine Sliding into DMs: Was it Illicit Sexual Behavior?

Podcast Relationships

Ex-It Strategy Podcast 38 Hosts/Participants Elizabeth Stephenson, Sarah Hink, Jen Bordeaux Elizabeth: Hi everyone. I’m Elizabeth Stephenson with New Direction Family Law. Sarah: And I’m Sarah Hink. We are the partners in podcasters at New Direction Family Law. Thank…

After the Divorce

Planning for After the Divorce

Lifestyle Parenting Relationships Separation & Divorce

Have you taken the time to do some planning for after the divorce? If you have made the decision to divorce and are taking steps to find a lawyer and begin your separation period, the post-divorce time may not be…

Divorcing Later in Life: What You Need to Know

Divorcing Later in Life: What You Need to Know

Relationships Separation & Divorce Wealth

When divorcing later in life, there are important considerations that you need to know. You may need to think through very different issues for a divorce at a later age than you would for a divorce when younger. Crucial points…

Can a Parent Coordinator Help With Your Divorce?

Can a Parent Coordinator Help With Your Divorce?

Child Custody Parenting Relationships Separation & Divorce

You may not realize how much a parent coordinator could help with your divorce. Adults are the ones who make the decision to end their marriage, but children can very easily get pulled into this difficult situation and caught in…

Divorce Lawyers for Families: Learn More Here

Divorce Lawyers for Families: Learn More Here

Parenting Relationships Separation & Divorce

Divorce lawyers can help navigate the significant changes to your family unit that divorce may bring. Ending a marriage affects many more people than just the married couple. The entire family’s life is affected. Children from the marriage, children from…

Splitting Up

Considering Divorce? Your Options for Splitting Up

Relationships Separation & Divorce

If you are considering divorce, you have options for splitting up. There are methods for getting divorced that do not involve a lot of court appearances, if you and your spouse agree on a different setting. You could use the…

Your Spouse Left the State with Your Kids: What’s Next?

Your Spouse Left the State with Your Kids – What’s Next?

Child Custody Domestic Violence Lifestyle Parenting Relationships

When a marriage is breaking up, it’s not unusual that one spouse leaves the state with the kids. Sometimes the move is agreed upon by the other spouse, and sometimes it is not. If your spouse unexpectedly took the children…

Denied Visitation? Exercising Your Parental Rights

Denied Visitation? Exercising Your Parental Rights

Child Custody Parenting Relationships

If you have been denied visitation, you will need to take steps toward exercising your parental rights. Some parents decide that informal custody arrangements will work for them. But one parent may later decide to deny the other parent visitation…

prenup

Do You Need a Prenup Lawyer to Sign an Agreement?

Lifestyle Relationships Wealth

If you want a prenup, you need to consult with a lawyer before you sign the agreement. Signing a prenuptial agreement could affect your life and assets many years in the future. Do not sign a form that your fiancé…

Uncontested Divorce: What You Can Expect

Uncontested Divorce: What You Can Expect

Relationships Separation & Divorce

If you and your spouse plan to get an uncontested divorce, you should know what to expect. Not all divorces involve bitter custody battles or fights over dividing property. Sometimes couples decide to divorce amicably because their marriages have not…

Divorce Final

Why Should You Make Your Divorce Final After Separation?

Relationships Separation & Divorce

If you and your spouse have ended your marriage, it is a good idea to make your divorce final after separation. Some couples may remain separated without getting a court order finalizing the divorce. However, there are several good reasons…

3 Good Reasons to Sign a Prenuptial Agreement

3 Good Reasons to Sign a Prenuptial Agreement

Relationships Separation & Divorce

A couple who wants to protect themselves and their assets may decide to sign a prenuptial agreement before marriage. There are many good reasons to make use of a prenuptial agreement (also called a “prenup”). For example, you can protect…

Grandparents’ Rights in North Carolina

Grandparents’ Rights in North Carolina

Child Custody Parenting Relationships

Grandparents have important rights regarding child custody in North Carolina. While the law recognizes parents’ fundamental and long-standing right to have custody of their children, grandparents can have custody or visitation rights in certain situations. Typically, child custody decisions favor…

divorce lawyer

Can My Spouse and I Use the Same Divorce Lawyer?

Relationships Separation & Divorce

When getting a divorce, some couples want to use the same divorce lawyer. In North Carolina, lawyers cannot ethically represent both spouses. Why Can’t a Divorce Lawyer Represent Both Spouses? Using the same lawyer during your divorce may seem like…

divorce attorney

Divorce Attorney Explains Why the Separation Date Matters

Relationships Separation & Divorce

A divorce attorney is often asked why the separation date from your spouse is important in North Carolina. The legal requirement of a year’s separation means that the court will need to know your separation date. If you reconcile, the…

Bed and Board

What Is a Divorce From Bed and Board in North Carolina?

Domestic Violence Lifestyle Relationships Separation & Divorce

A divorce from bed and board is a separation option available in North Carolina in situations involving abuse, adultery, or mistreatment. It’s not a divorce in the true sense of the word – it’s a legal, court-ordered separation during which…

Who Pays for Child Care After the Divorce?

Who Pays for Child Care After the Divorce?

Child Support Lifestyle Parenting Relationships

If you are thinking about divorce, you may wonder who pays for child care once you separate. Your children may need extra child care because you and your ex are living separately. Someone must pay for the care and costs…

Visitation Rights and Electronic Communications

Visitation Rights and Electronic Communications

Child Custody Parenting Relationships

If you are dealing with a child custody case, you should know about how visitation rights work using electronic communications. Keeping connected with your child is even more important when someone else has custody of them for part or all…

North Carolina Visitation Rights Explained

North Carolina Visitation Rights Explained

Child Custody Parenting Relationships

When you are involved in a child custody case, you need to understand your or your co-parent’s potential visitation rights. If you or your co-parent is granted visitation, it will be important to follow the visitation rules and respect your…

What Happens If Your Spouse Doesn’t Pay Alimony?

What Happens If Your Spouse Doesn’t Pay Alimony?

Relationships Separation & Divorce

After you have been awarded alimony, you unfortunately could find that your ex-spouse does not pay it. This could cause you stress or financial problems post-divorce. If your ex-spouse has not made an alimony payment, you should speak with a…

Can You Oppose a Divorce?

Can You Oppose a Divorce?

Relationships Separation & Divorce

If your spouse wants a divorce, but you do not, you may wonder if it is possible to oppose the divorce proceeding. Sometimes, one spouse is ready to move on from the marriage sooner than the other spouse. To understand…

Can You Date Other People During a Divorce?

Can You Date Other People During a Divorce?

Relationships Separation & Divorce

When you’re in the middle of a divorce, you may have the urge to start dating other people. Due to the divorce, moving on with your life could be a priority for you. Although dating again may sound good, there…

Divorce When Most of Your Property Is in Your Spouse’s Name

Divorce When Most of Your Property Is in Your Spouse’s Name

Lifestyle Relationships Separation & Divorce Wealth

If you’re getting divorced but most of your property is in your spouse’s name, you may be concerned that you’ll walk away with nothing. In addition to the emotions you may feel about the divorce, you have to worry about…

What Does a Family Lawyer Do?

What Does a Family Lawyer Do?

Child Custody Child Support Relationships Separation & Divorce

You may have heard the term “family lawyer” and wondered what it means. It can be confusing to figure out which kinds of cases a lawyer can handle for you. If you are getting a divorce, seeking custody of children,…

Marital Misconduct in North Carolina

Marital Misconduct in North Carolina

Domestic Violence Relationships Separation & Divorce

Sometimes spouses step outside the agreed-upon boundaries of their marriage, causing conflict and even the need to divorce. During a North Carolina divorce case, one or both spouses may provide evidence of marital misconduct by the other spouse. Marital misconduct…

Will Your Spouse Have to Pay You Alimony?

Will Your Spouse Have to Pay You Alimony?

Lifestyle Relationships Separation & Divorce Wealth

Updated: January 25, 2023 When going through a separation and divorce, many people worry about financial support. Money may become a lot tighter without the additional income that your spouse provided. Fortunately, North Carolina law allows some divorcing spouses to…

What Is the Difference Between Alimony and Post-Separation Support?

What Is the Difference Between Alimony and Post-Separation Support?

Lifestyle Relationships Separation & Divorce Wealth

If you are involved in a separation or divorce, you may have questions about receiving post-separation support or alimony. While these two forms of spousal support share some similarities, you’ll want to understand the differences between them too. What Is…

Annulment of Marriage in North Carolina

Annulment of Marriage in North Carolina

Relationships Separation & Divorce

If you need to end your marriage, you may wonder if annulment is an option in North Carolina. Annulment is a legal process that voids the marriage. It is available only under specific circumstances. What Is Annulment? Annulment is a…

What to Do If Your Spouse Won’t Follow a Child Custody Agreement

What to Do If Your Spouse Won’t Follow a Child Custody Agreement

Child Custody Child Support Domestic Violence Parenting Relationships

If your spouse won’t follow your child custody agreement, you may need legal help to enforce it. Dealing with joint custody can be time-consuming and difficult on its own – let alone if your spouse ignores your agreement. How Do…

Collaborative Divorce in North Carolina

Collaborative Divorce in North Carolina

Relationships Separation & Divorce

Unlike divorce handled in the courtroom, the collaborative divorce process focuses on amicable resolution outside a courtroom. It is a client-centered approach far from the usual depictions of divorce that you see in the media. If you are interested in…

Mediation as an Alternative to Family Court

Mediation as an Alternative to Family Court

Relationships Separation & Divorce

Alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation can help resolve issues that a family court judge would otherwise handle. Mediation focuses on promoting communication between spouses, rather than adversarial battles. Parties to a mediation may find that they can overcome their…

Arbitration as an Alternative to Family Court

Arbitration as an Alternative to Family Court

Relationships Separation & Divorce

Alternative dispute resolution methods like arbitration can help resolve issues that a family court judge would otherwise handle. Spouses or ex-spouses can agree to use the arbitration process instead of having to appear in court. For many, more informal dispute…

Postnuptial Agreements What You Need to Know

Postnuptial Agreements: What You Need to Know

Lifestyle Relationships Separation & Divorce

If you are married and want to ensure that you and your children are financially protected in the future, then you may want to sign a postnuptial agreement. Postnuptial agreements provide peace of mind should you ever separate or divorce.…

Prenuptial Agreements What You Need to Know

Prenuptial Agreements: What You Need to Know

Lifestyle Relationships Separation & Divorce

You might have heard of prenuptial agreements in the context of celebrity marriages or divorces, so you may be surprised to learn that it is becoming common for couples of all income levels to sign “prenups”. These premarital contracts can…

Reconciliation After Separation in North Carolina

Reconciliation After Separation in North Carolina

Relationships Separation & Divorce

After you and your spouse officially separate, at some point you may reconcile instead of seeking a divorce. Reconciliation doesn’t just mean making up and apologizing. It has a legal definition in North Carolina that affects your timeline if you…

Handling a Contentious Divorce in North Carolina

Handling a Contentious Divorce in North Carolina

Relationships Separation & Divorce

Unfortunately, some couples have extremely contentious divorces after they decide to end their marriage. If your marriage was mostly happy, it can be surprising and challenging to handle a messy divorce. If your marriage was not happy, then a difficult…

What to Do If COVID-19 Restrictions Have Made You Consider Divorce

What to Do If COVID-19 Restrictions Have Made You Consider Divorce

Relationships Separation & Divorce

If the COVID-19 pandemic has made you consider divorce, you are not alone. With the many restrictions that governments and employers have mandated during the pandemic, you may have been spending more time than usual with your spouse. Stories of…

Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year 2018 (Celebrating Multicultural Relationships)

Lifestyle Relationships

Chinese New Year is the most widely celebrated holiday of the year in China, in many other East Asian countries, and by people of Asian ethnic heritage around the globe. Also referred to as the “Spring” Festival, or the Lunar…

Identifying Signs of Domestic Violence in a Relationship

Identifying Signs of Domestic Violence in a Relationship

Domestic Violence Relationships

It is surprisingly easy to lose yourself in a relationship. After a relationship begins, a lot of people find themselves focused on their partner, while naturally pulling away from their daily routines and even from friends. Unfortunately, a lot of…

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