Winston-Salem, Forsyth County Divorce and Separation Attorney

When family discord creates legal problems, working with an experienced lawyer can help you create solutions. With over 30 years of experience, I am a Board Certified Specialist in Family Law. I help families with issues like divorce, separation, custody and support, alimony, property division, and prenuptial agreements. I work closely and diligently with clients to make sure that they understand the law. To talk with me about your legal concerns, call the law office of Paul C. Shepard at (336) 727-1364.

Separation and Divorce

Under North Carolina law, couples must be separated for 12 months before they can get a divorce. I can help you achieve the status of being legally separated (many people call this getting their separation papers) by creating a separation agreement. If it is not possible to reach an agreement during your separation, you can still take legal action to resolve many legal issues related to divorce: child custody and visitation, child support, division of property, and alimony.

Custody and Support

In North Carolina, court decisions about child custody are not biased toward either mothers or fathers; they are made based on the idea of the "best interests of the child." In the absence of a court order or separation agreement providing for the custody of a child, both parents usually have an equal right to custody.

Both parents are responsible for child support, generally until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later. The level of child support is usually determined by the North Carolina Child Support Guidelines. The guidelines base support on factors such as the income of the parties, parents' other obligations for child support, medical insurance costs, and day care expenses. The amount of support can be changed when there is a substantial change of circumstances.

Alimony and Property Division

Divorcing couples are each entitled to an equitable share of their marital property. If they entered into a separation agreement, the division of property is usually outlined in the agreement. If there is no agreement, equitable distribution must be requested in the divorce action. Under North Carolina law, a dependent spouse can seek alimony under the circumstances stated in the North Carolina General Statutes.

View our current articles related to Divorce / Separation.

Contact Me For Your Family Law Needs

Legal matters related to divorce, separation, or other family law concerns in North Carolina can be complicated. Working closely with an experienced attorney can be critical to your success. Contact Paul C. Shepard by calling (336) 727-1364 for a consultation. My law office is centrally located in downtown Winston-Salem; please ask about free parking.

Paul C. Shepard, Attorney at Law
8 West Third Street, Suite 245
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Phone: (336) 727-1364
Fax: (336) 727-1365