Articles Posted in Property Division

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When trial courts enter orders in family law matters, such as alimony orders or equitable distribution orders, either party may appeal as long as they meet the requirements. There are various stipulations, such as rules about appealing interlocutory or temporary orders, but the general rule is that orders entered by trial courts are appealable if done at the right time.

Once an appeal has been filed and noted, can the court that entered the appealed order issue other orders in the same matter?

Crowell v. Crowell

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On a national level, the number of marriages has begun to increase after taking a dive in the couple of years following the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though more people may be getting married now, there are still a significant number of unmarried couples who live together in North Carolina. If you are unmarried, does North Carolina allow a lesser-earning or dependent partner to receive alimony or to seek equitable distribution during a breakup? Continue reading →

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As part of the North Carolina divorce process, spouses often have assets that need to be divided between them. Equitable distribution is an option if one or both spouses request it, and it is the process by which the court will divide the property in a way that is equitable but not always equal. Continue reading →

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In a recent case involving trust property in an equitable distribution dispute, the North Carolina Court of Appeals vacated and remanded a trial court’s decision not to add a trust as a necessary party to the case. Continue reading →

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The language in any contract must be clear and unambiguous, and this standard is true of settlement agreements in divorce proceedings as well. When the terms of an agreement are left open to interpretation, it can lead to issues like contention and litigation. Continue reading →

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Timeframes and deadlines are a vital part of family law cases, both in trial court and appellate court. Whether filing an answer to a divorce complaint, responding to discovery requests, or objecting to a subpoena, deadlines are a regular part of civil court in North Carolina. In some situations, the consequences for missing a deadline only consist of additional paperwork or a request to the judge. However, there are times when failing to meet a deadline can prevent you from having your case heard, which is what happened in the North Carolina Court of Appeals case of Thiagarajan v. Jaganathan. Continue reading →

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The division of property is one of the most significant factors in many North Carolina divorces. Spouses accumulate substantial assets and debts throughout their marriage, including real estate, retirement accounts, investment portfolios, vehicles, and bank accounts. North Carolina statutes support equitable distribution, meaning that if either spouse requests it a court will determine a fair and equitable division of marital property.

Spouses with prenuptial or premarital agreements may believe that this contract prevents an equitable distribution of property in a divorce, but that may not be true. Precise wording is critical because not all agreements meet the requirements to waive equitable distribution.

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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?

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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.

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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 →