Adoption

Adoption

An Adoption is a legal proceeding creating a parental relationship between the adoptee and the petitioner. The petitioner is the person requesting the adoption. The adoptee is the person being adopted.  When the adoption is finalized, an adoptee has the same legal status and rights as a natural born child. A married couple or an…

ring on finger

Absolute Divorce

An absolute divorce is the name for the legal procedure ending a marriage. Once a divorce is finalized, a person is now free to do several things. They can file a tax return using their income only, purchase real estate without the signature of the now former spouse and are free to remarry. In order…

divorced couples

What Are the Requirements to Get a Divorce in North Carolina?

Making the decision to end your marriage is never easy. Understanding the state’s specific requirements and legal procedures is important if you’re contemplating a divorce in North Carolina. You need to take some key steps and prerequisites to obtain a divorce in the Tar Heel State. Residency Requirement One of the first requirements is meeting…

Gavel and ring

Is an Engagement Ring Marital or Separate Property in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, engagement rings are generally considered separate property, rather than marital property, in the event of a divorce. This means that the person who received the engagement ring during the engagement or prior to marriage will likely keep it after the divorce. Under North Carolina law, separate property is defined as any property acquired…